With great concern over limited access to dental care and the unmet dental needs of many of New Madrid County’s children, Dr. Charles Baker, Senior Advisor for the New Madrid County Health Department, recently launched a county-wide oral health initiative.
In late September, PSP was presented to a large & very diverse group of individuals from New Madrid County, which included among others, School Nurses, Dental Professionals, School Principals and Superintendents, County Health Department Employees, Community Volunteers, County Commissioners, Mayors and even one State Representative. The goal of this meeting was to not only create awareness of the Preventive Services Program, but to generate community-wide involvement & endorsement. Dr. Baker’s goal was met as the program was well received by those attending. It is the intent of the County Health Department to implement PSP in each of the 12 schools located within the county, reaching approximately 2900 students.
The way Dr. Baker has enlisted community wide support of the program is truly the Preventive Services Program “community-based systems approach” in action. Thank you Dr. Baker!