Putting Prevention into Action: Community Water Fluoridation

Wednesday, Feb. 14: 1-2 p.m.

Join NIDCR and the American Dental Association for a free webinar in observance of National Children's Dental Health Month.

Community water fluoridation continues to be one of the most effective, cost-efficient, and socially equitable ways to promote oral health. This webinar will feature a panel discussion on current research on the effectiveness of community water fluoridation, the relationship between fluoride and neurocognitive development, and future directions of fluoride-related research. A question-and-answer session will follow the presentations. Health professionals are eligible to receive continuing education credit.

Click to register for the Feb. 14 course

What's New in the World of Pediatric Dentistry

Wednesday, Feb. 28; 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Join MOHC for a free webinar in support of National Children's Dental Health Month.

Embark on a captivating one-hour journey as we unravel the complexities of expanded Medicaid services and delve into the world of Kindergarten Oral Health Assessments (KOHA/MI Senate Bill 280). This course is not just about imparting knowledge, it's about sparking a conversation on the pivotal role of anticipatory guidance and mastering the art of proper sealant placement. 

Click to register for the Feb. 28 course

Dental Public Health 101

Tuesday, Mar. 19; 7-8:30 p.m.

Back by popular demand!

This course is designed to provide an understanding of health equity and disparities in dental care. You'll explore US/Michigan-specific data on various dental health issues and public health interventions for these inequities. An exploration of career opportunities in dental public health, especially in underserved communities and dental public health clinics, will also be discussed. Both novice and seasoned clinicians will gain a critical understanding of how dental public health programs are addressing oral healthcare disparities.

Click to register for the Mar. 19 course

Legislative Update

On January 10, the Michigan State Legislature gaveled back in to kick off the session for 2024. Due to the November 2023 elections, where two Democratic House members won their races for mayor, the House currently sits at a 54-54 split between Republicans and Democrats. The two vacant seats will not be filled until after April 16, when district elections will occur. 

Governor Whitmer’s State of the State Address

Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued her sixth State of the State address on January 24, where she shared her plan to build upon the successes of the first Democratic-led trifecta in 40 years and prioritize building the state’s infrastructure and workforce. Her key priorities are listed below:

• State-funded free tuition for the first two years of community college
• Novel tax credit up to $5,000 granted to caregivers responsible for the well-being of a family member
• Final stage of a plan to rebuild and reinvest in our Great Lakes State
• Building and rehabilitating nearly 10,000 Michigan homes
• Accelerating the expansion of Michigan’s Great Start Readiness preschool program for all four-year-olds
• Michigan's Economic Development Toolkit

Budget Season Begins

Planning for the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 budget season began following presentations from state economists and fiscal analysis during the January 12 Consensus Revenue Estimating Conference. During the conference, it was revealed that revenues for FY 25, which began on October 1, 2024, will be relatively flat compared to previous fiscal years when the state had a larger pot of money due to federal funds related to the COVID-19 pandemic and increased tax collections.

Policy Committee Update

MOHC will begin advocating for Fiscal Year 2025 budget priorities, which includes funding for Kindergarten Oral Health Assessments.

Please reach out to Emily Henderson emily@mccallhamilton.com with questions. 

MDHHS Announces Water Fluoridation Quality Recipient

Several Michigan communities have been honored with the Water Fluoridation Quality Award by the MDHHS Oral Health Program. This prestigious recognition comes from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and applauds several communities' dedication to keeping our drinking water at the optimal fluoride level throughout 2022 - a key step in preventing tooth decay.

Click to read more and learn if your water system was recognized!