Co-Founder & Executive Director The American Institute of Dental Public Health The American Institute of Dental Public Health
Disclosure(s):
Annaliese Cothron, DHSc, MS, CPH: No financial relationships to disclose
Description: Queer people throughout the United States have historically experienced discrimination in the healthcare system, including dental care. Sweeping and pervasive legislative attacks in the last five years have led to healthcare bans, insurance challenges, mental health concerns, and perpetual discrimination. The impact of these policy changes was explored through research released by The American Institute of Dental Public Health (AIDPH) and CareQuest Institute for Oral Health. This report was developed through three key focuses: 1) Understanding the impact of state-based legislation on healthcare access, 2) exploring how discriminatory legislation impacts oral healthcare delivery, and 3) evaluating the impact of social and structural healthcare policy on the health and well-being of queer people. An analysis of political and social determinants - including healthcare access, discrimination laws, and Medicaid implications - was completed in relation to oral health outcomes. A series of strategic recommendations for mitigating harm and improving the oral health and well-being of queer people will be reviewed. This roundtable session will explore research findings with a focus on how policymakers, oral health professionals, and advocates can use the data to drive transformation. Attendees will identify opportunities to leverage research for state-based advocacy, improve care access, and mitigate harm that disproportionately impacts queer communities. Using a data-driven approach, participants will leave equipped with actionable strategies for integrating justice-focused policy advocacy into their work, ultimately supporting the advancement of oral health equity for LGBTQIA+ communities.
Source of
Funding: : This project was funded by CareQuest Institute for Oral Health.
