AIDPH Provides Written Testimony on Senate Committee Dental Crisis Hearing

The American Institute of Dental Public Health (AIDPH) submitted written testimony for a senate hearing on the U.S. healthcare crisis related to dental care access and affordability. AIDPH's testimony addressed the lack of dental care for underserved populations, including veterans, people with disabilities, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and rural communities.

Annaliese Cothron, AIDPH Executive Director, stated, "The dental care crisis in America is not just a failure of health; it is a failure of justice." The testimony outlined significant disparities in oral health and called for urgent policy solutions.

AIDPH proposed expanding Medicaid and Medicare to include comprehensive dental benefits, increasing the oral health workforce, and financing value-based dental care systems. Additionally, they suggested expanding VA dental eligibility for high-risk veterans.

Following the hearing, Senator Bernie Sanders introduced the Comprehensive Dental Care Reform Act of 2024, aiming to expand dental coverage for seniors, veterans, and low-income populations. The legislation includes provisions to increase dental professionals in rural areas and integrate dental services into community health centers.

AIDPH supports this legislation and appreciates Senator Sanders' advocacy for oral health.