Oral health integration is founded on the ideals that young children receive oral health preventive services as a part of routine childcare, pregnant women have dental needs addressed prior to delivery, and that oral disease is treated as a part of comprehensive care plans.
In Oregon, 28% of adults avoid smiling due to the condition of their teeth; 20% of adults feel embarrassment due to the condition of their mouth and teeth; and 23% of adults feel anxiety due to the condition of their mouth and teeth. At present, there is very little coordination between dental, behavioral, and physical healthcare providers, not only throughout Oregon, but especially in Klamath County. 
cascade.png?1647295586654cascade.png?1647295586654Year 1 and 2 Progress Update
Lead Agencies: Klamath County Public Health/Klamath Health Partnership

Through Title V funding, Klamath County Public Health coordinates the Klamath Basin Oral Health Coalition (KBOHC), which is the driving force behind this CHIP priority. The significant work and strong partnerships of KBOHC gained statewide attention. KBOHC partnered with Oregon Tech’s dental hygiene program on a head and neck cancer screening project in dental offices as well as the Smiles for Life training program for frontline health workers. The COVID shutdown was particularly impactful because the Governor’s executive order closed dental offices except for emergency procedures, and the free dental days in 2020 were cancelled.

Despite the challenges, work adapted by focusing on more behind-the-scenes work such as developing educational brochures, exploring innovative projects, and researching oral health policy change. KBOHC focused on on access to dental care for pregnant women and people with diabetes. In Year Two work was able to resume fully and free dental days were held, which is a touchstone project of KBOHC. When oral health was no longer a Title V funded priority, Klamath Health Partnership saw the benefit of having a dedicated coordinator and stepped up to fund a part time position. KBOHC partners also contributed funding to purchase portable dental equipment to expand mobile dental opportunities in the community.

In Klamath County, the amount of adults with diabetes is rising. For people with diabetes, it is very important to visit a dentist regularly. People with diabetes are more likely to have gum disease due to poor blood sugar control. Therefore by preventing and treating gum disease, a person could both improve their oral health and physical health.
 
 
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Klamath County has a high ratio of practicing dentists compared to other U.S. counties and that number has been steadily increasing.  However, front-line workers are needed to reach vulnerable populations. 
It is recommended that adults and children see a dentist on a regular basis. Professional dental care helps to maintain the overall health of the teeth and mouth, and provides for early detection of pre-cancerous or cancerous lesions. People living in areas with low rates of dentists may have difficulty accessing the dental care they need.

Dentist Rate

Compared to OR Counties, Klamath has a value of 88 which is in the best 50% of counties. Counties in the best 50% have a value higher than 67 while counties in the worst 25% have a value lower than 59. Compared to OR Counties, Klamath has a value of 88 which is in the best 50% of counties. Counties in the best 50% have a value higher than 67 while counties in the worst 25% have a value lower than 59.
(Compared to OR Counties)
Compared to U.S. Counties, Klamath has a value of 88 which is in the best 50% of counties. Counties in the best 50% have a value higher than 43 while counties in the worst 25% have a value lower than 27. Compared to U.S. Counties, Klamath has a value of 88 which is in the best 50% of counties. Counties in the best 50% have a value higher than 43 while counties in the worst 25% have a value lower than 27.
(Compared to U.S. Counties)
Over time, the Klamath value is increasing significantly. Over time, the Klamath value is increasing significantly.
(Compared to Trend over Time)

County: Klamath

Oral Cancer in Klamath County

The incidence of oral cancer is trending upwards in Klamath County.
13.3Cases per 100,000 population Value
Compared to the OR Value (12.2), Klamath has a value of 13.3 which is higher and worse. OR State Value
Compared to the US Value (11.9), Klamath has a value of 13.3 which is higher and worse. U.S. Value
Over time, the Klamath value is decreasing, significantly. Trend over Time

Oral Cancer Risk Factors

Compared to OR Counties, Klamath has a value of 17.8% which is in the worst 25% of counties. Counties in the best 50% have a value lower than 15.4% while counties in the worst 25% have a value higher than 16.6%. Adults who Smoke
(Compared to OR Counties)
Compared to OR Counties, Klamath has a value of 9.4% which is in the best 50% of counties. Counties in the best 50% have a value lower than 14.3% while counties in the worst 25% have a value higher than 17.1%. Adults who Binge Drink: Females
(Compared to OR Counties)
Compared to OR Counties, Klamath has a value of 18.2% which is in the best 50% of counties. Counties in the best 50% have a value lower than 22.0% while counties in the worst 25% have a value higher than 25.6%. Adults who Binge Drink: Males
(Compared to OR Counties)
Compared to OR Counties, Klamath has a value of 4.3 which is in the best 50% of counties. Counties in the best 50% have a value lower than 5.0 while counties in the worst 25% have a value higher than 8.0. Liquor Store Density
(Compared to OR Counties)

About the Klamath Basin Oral Health Coalition (KBOHC) 

The Klamath Basin Oral Health Coalition (KBOHC) is a group of diverse organizations working to improve awareness of and access to oral health services.  Current objectives include increasing the percentage of adults visiting the dentist each year, and awareness of the relationship between oral health and physical health.  The coalition is also focusing its efforts on vulnerable groups such as patients with diabetes, pregnant mothers, and youth.

KBOHC has been tasked with carrying out strategies within the oral health priority area of Klamath County’s Community Health Improvement Plan.  

For more information, please contact the Klamath Basin Oral Health Coalition at klamathbasinohc@gmail.com.

 
Logo
 
 

GOAL

Improve access to and awareness of oral health services

Objective 1: Increase percentage of adults visiting dentists each year to 70%

Strategy 1: Develop a coordinated dental services referral protocol

Dec
2023

  • Task 1: Talk with PCPs about oral health and diagnosis - develop a 1-page "hit list" for oral matters and diabetes

    Process Measure: 1-pager developed.
     
    Quarterly Tracking
    Oct-Dec 2019 Jan-Mar 2020 Apr-Jun 2020 July-Sept 2020
    Not yet started Not yet started Developed and finalized brochure on oral care for patients with diabetes English and Spanish versions distributed to the coalition.  Completed. 
    Oct-Dec 2020 Jan-Mar 2021 Apr-Jun 2021 July-Sept 2021
    Completed Year 1
    Oct-Dec 2021 Jan-Mar 2022 Apr-Jun 2022 July-Sept 2022
    Completed Year 1

  • Task 2: Pilot primary care-dental integration program to increase annual dental appointments for patients with diabetes

    Process Measure: Pilot program created; pilot cohort recruited.
    Quarterly Tracking
    Oct-Dec 2019 Jan-Mar 2020 Apr-Jun 2020 July-Sept 2020
    Not yet started Not yet started KHP hired a new dental director who is interested in starting a physical-dental integrated program. Patients with diabetes is the suggested beginning population.  No activities this quarter. Will continue project in Year 2. 
    Oct-Dec 2020 Jan-Mar 2021 Apr-Jun 2021 July-Sept 2021
    No activity this quarter No activity this quarter No activity this quarter No activity this quarter
    Oct-Dec 2021 Jan-Mar 2022 Apr-Jun 2022 July-Sept 2022
    KHP developed workflow to improve DM care for those patients seeking both PCP and dental services and identified population of focus within PCP clinic. OHS began pilot in mid to late Dec.

  • Task 3: Create a follow-up loop/auto referral to CHWs and oral health for all newly diagnosed diabetic patients

    Process Measure: Follow-up loop created; process piloted with CHWs
     
    Quarterly Tracking
    Oct-Dec 2021 Jan-Mar 2022 Apr-Jun 2022 July-Sept 2022
    No activity this quarter.

Strategy 2: Train Frontline healthcare workers (FLHW) on oral health intake, visual screening, referral, and patient education.

Dec
2023

  • Task 1: Train DHS Family Coaches

    Process Measure: Trained DHS Family Coaches.
     
    Quarterly Tracking
    Oct-Dec 2019 Jan-Mar 2020 Apr-Jun 2020 July-Sept 2020
    OHSU Nursing students trained 9 DHS family coaches on oral health curriculum Additional Smiles for Life training was held at DHS. No additional family coaches trained in this quarter--task complete No additional family coaches trained in this quarter. Task complete
    Oct-Dec 2020 Jan-Mar 2021 Apr-Jun 2021 July-Sept 2021
    Completed Year 1
    Oct-Dec 2021 Jan-Mar 2022 Apr-Jun 2022 July-Sept 2022
    Completed Year 1
     

  • Task 2: Expand FLHW training to local CHWs, case managers, navigators

    Process Measure: # trainings held; # participants at each training.
     
    Quarterly Tracking
    Oct-Dec 2019 Jan-Mar 2020 Apr-Jun 2020 July-Sept 2020
    OHSU nursing students are placed in BestCare for winter term 2020 to train 12 staff on substance abuse-specific dental care.  Ongoing work with DHS family coache 2 dental hygiene and nursing teams screened 31 BestCare residents, gave ed. pres. to BestCare staff Relationship fostered by OHSU Nursing between BestCare and OIT Dental Hygiene; planning for 4-term DH community health project at BestCare No activity this quarter (summer term, students off). Project will continue in Fall 2020 (year 2 workplan).
    Oct-Dec 2020 Jan-Mar 2021 Apr-Jun 2021 July-Sept 2021
    All SLMC OPCM staff completed the Smiles for Life” curriculum OHSU SoN completed planning for interprofessional oral health project in collaboration with OIT DH Dept. OHSU Nursing and OIT DH students completed a term-long OH education project at Sanford Children's Clinic. No activity this quarter due to summer break.  
    Oct-Dec 2021 Jan-Mar 2022 Apr-Jun 2022 July-Sept 2022
    No activity this quarter
     

Strategy 3: Incorporate dental screening, referral, and treatment into local hospital

Dec
2023

  • Task 1: Research Linn-Benton OHC and hospital oral health program

    Process Measure: Analysis and overview of program; contact LBOHC "staff".
     
    Quarterly Tracking
    Oct-Dec 2019 Jan-Mar 2020 Apr-Jun 2020 July-Sept 2020
    SLMC OPCM staff reported on ORH conference break-out session on model hospital dental program No activities this quarter No activities this quarter Task will begin with Year 2 workplan
    Oct-Dec 2020 Jan-Mar 2021 Apr-Jun 2021 July-Sept 2021
    KCPH met with Capitol Dental EPDH and community outreach director about dental pilot at Samaritan Lebanon Community Hospital No activity this quarter Discussed grant concept for hospital OH pilot project with Sky Lakes. Leadership team met to discuss grant concept, reached out to Capitol Dental Care again for guidance.
    Oct-Dec 2021 Jan-Mar 2022 Apr-Jun 2022 July-Sept 2022
    Received write-up used by Samaritan Lebanon Community Hospital for original dental hospital grant.

  • Task 2: Create a work group to develop a pilot program for oral health services in hospital.

    Process Measure: Work group formed.
     
    Quarterly Tracking
    Oct-Dec 2019 Jan-Mar 2020 Apr-Jun 2020 July-Sept 2020
    Not yet started Not yet started Not yet started Not yet started
    Oct-Dec 2020 Jan-Mar 2021 Apr-Jun 2021 July-Sept 2021
    On hold due to COVID On hold due to COVID Work group created. See 1.3.1 above (Research Linn-Benton OHC and hospital oral health program). Work group created. See 1.3.1 above (Research Linn-Benton OHC and hospital oral health program).
    Oct-Dec 2021 Jan-Mar 2022 Apr-Jun 2022 July-Sept 2022
    Planning conversations continued with Sky Lakes and OIT about a pilot.

Strategy 1.4: Provide dental services to community members via free or reduced cost and/or mobile clinics.

Dec
2023

  • Task 1: Offer annual dental clinic in outlying areas

    Process Measure: # of dental clinics scheduled, planned.
     
    Quarterly Tracking
    Oct-Dec 2021 Jan-Mar 2022 Apr-Jun 2022 July-Sept 2022
    No activity this quarter

Objective 2: Increase awareness of relationship between oral health and physical health shown through increase in preventative service utilization (5% increase)

Strategy 1: Increase awareness of relationship between oral cancer and physical health.

Sep
2023

  • Task 1: Develop materials with KBOHC branding to have available at events (banner eventually).

    Process Measure: Co-branded materials developed.
     
    Quarterly Tracking
    Oct-Dec 2019 Jan-Mar 2020 Apr-Jun 2020 July-Sept 2020
    Work group preparing application for grant to fund design, translation, printing of ed./promo materials KHP applied for the West Family Foundation grant for promo/ed materials KCPH/OIT DH: Planning for brochure on head and neck cancer self-exams and HPV vax/tobacco cessation card for dental take-home bags; West grant decision delayed due to COVID-19 The coalition's logo was redesigned to give it a more professional look. Coalition will continue in Year 2 to develop  branded materials.
    Oct-Dec 20201 Jan-Mar 2022 Apr-Jun 2022 July-Sept 2022
    No activity this quarter No activity this quarter Ordered print copies of KBOHC brochures for 1) pregnant people,  2) during pregnancy for dental providers, 3) pts w/diabetes, 4) denture care for pts w/diabetes, 5) parents of infants.  Printed free dental clinic day poster. Delivered infant OH and OH for pregnant women brochures for distribution at Community Baby Shower in October.  Coordinated with Healthy Klamath website admin to upload OH materials.  
    Oct-Dec 2020 Jan-Mar 2021 Apr-Jun 2021 July-Sept 2021
    No activity this quarter

  • Task 2: Staff community events with KBOHC events

    Process Measure: # events participated in.
     
    Quarterly Tracking
    Oct-Dec 2019 Jan-Mar 2020 Apr-Jun 2020 July-Sept 2020
    Health Fair in March, Free Dental days in April, Community Baby Shower on Oct. 5 Health Fair and KBOHC Free Dental Days postponed due to COVID-19, planning continues for Community Baby Shower in Oct. Planning continued for Community Baby Shower in October Planning for the Community Baby Shower, with organizers shifting to a drive-by model.  OIT DH is planning to participate in the Merrill Potato Festival Health Fair.  
    Oct-Dec 2020 Jan-Mar 2021 Apr-Jun 2021 July-Sept 2021
    Community Baby Shower (Early Learning Hub) and Merrill Potato Festival Health Fair (OIT DH) Planning for KBOHC Free Dental Clinic Days scheduled for May 22 - 23 in Malin and Merrill Free Dental Clinic Days held in Malin and Merrill in May.  54 patients seen and ~$23,000 of services provided. Planning for Community Baby Shower.  
    Oct-Dec 2020 Jan-Mar 2021 Apr-Jun 2021 July-Sept 2021
    No activity this quarter

  • Task 3: Expand community outreach plan and update calendar

    Process Measure: Expanded outreach calendar; written outreach/communication plan.
     
    Quarterly Tracking
    Oct-Dec 2019 Jan-Mar 2020 Apr-Jun 2020 July-Sept 2020
    Communication plan shared Yearly outreach calendar updated and shared with coalition Coalition discussed Communication Plan; planning for updates to Research, Audiences and Comm. Channels. Communication plan updated
    Oct-Dec 2020 Jan-Mar 2021 Apr-Jun 2021 July-Sept 2021
    No activity this quarter Outreach calendar reviewed and updated No activity this quarter No activity this quarter
    Oct-Dec 2020 Jan-Mar 2021 Apr-Jun 2021 July-Sept 2021
    No activity this quarter

  • Task 4: Support OIT Knight Cancer CPP grant in conducting oral cancer education needs assessment among providers

    Process Measure: Needs assessment completed.
     
    Quarterly Tracking
    tr style="height: 24px;">Oct-Dec 2020Jan-Mar 2021Apr-Jun 2021July-Sept 2021
    Oct-Dec 2019 Jan-Mar 2020 Apr-Jun 2020 July-Sept 2020
    ~70% participation rate on needs assessment survey, 12 in-depth interviews completed.  OIT Dental Hygiene Dept. finished interviews and sent gift cards to survey participants  OIT Dental Hygiene and Population Health Management worked on the data analysis and final report CPP needs assessment completed, final project accepted.  
    Oct-Dec 2020 Jan-Mar 2021 Apr-Jun 2021 July-Sept 2021
    Completed Year 1
    Oct-Dec 2021 Jan-Mar 2022 Apr-Jun 2022 July-Sept 2022
    Completed Year 1
     

  • Task 5: Support OIT Knight Cancer CPP Tier 2 grant funding and project

    Oct-Dec 2020 Jan-Mar 2021 Apr-Jun 2021 July-Sept 2021
    No activity this quarter OIT decided not to pursue Tier 2 grant funding Abandoned Abandoned
    Oct-Dec 2021 Jan-Mar 2022 Apr-Jun 2022 July-Sept 2022
    Project to continue at OIT without CPP funding in Year 3.

  • Task 6: Provide continuing education for dentists and dental hygienists on importance of HPV vaccination and oral cancer prevention

    Oct-Dec 2020 Jan-Mar 2021 Apr-Jun 2021 July-Sept 2021
    KCPH facilitated conversations on 1) YATK Dental recurring webinar and 2) HPV/OPC/head and neck cancer recurring webinar with OPAHEC.  Oregon HPV Dental Task Force worked on key messaging for oral HPV toolkit KCPH began development of HPV oral/dental toolkit in collaboration with the Oregon HPV Oral/Dental Task Force HPV Oral/Dental Task Force developed drafts of provider fact sheet, patient brochure, patient card, provider flowchart, dental office poster, and social media messaging. HPV Dental Task Force submitted drafts for review to American Cancer Society, made edits, added acknowledgement of Oregon Tribes' work.  Awaiting final approval.
    Oct-Dec 2020 Jan-Mar 2021 Apr-Jun 2021 July-Sept 2021
    No activity this quarter

Strategy 2: Increase annual oral health evaluations for adults with diabetes to 30%

Sep
2023

  • Task 1: Use case management/care coordination to schedule and follow up with diabetic clients about oral health

    Process Measure: Increase in # of oral evaluations among patients with diabetes.
     
    Quarterly Tracking
    Oct-Dec 2019 Jan-Mar 2020 Apr-Jun 2020 July-Sept 2020
    Discussions with CHWs at several diabetes self-mgmt programs about current dental care info for diabetics No activities this quarter No activities this quarter No activities this quarter. Project will be highlight of year 2 workplan.
    Oct-Dec 2020 Jan-Mar 2021 Apr-Jun 2021 July-Sept 2021
    No activities this quarter No activities this quarter No activities this quarter No activities this quarter
    Oct-Dec 2021 Jan-Mar 2022 Apr-Jun 2022 July-Sept 2022

  • Task 2: Work with CHA diabetic education to provide education materials to clients. Develop education tool for diabetics with dentures

    Process Measure: Survey and tool developed for patients with diabetes who have dentures.
     
    Quarterly Tracking
    Oct-Dec 2019 Jan-Mar 2020 Apr-Jun 2020 July-Sept 2020
    Discussions with CHWs at several diabetes self-mgmt programs about current dental care info for diabetics No activities this quarter Coalition designed a brochure on denture care for patients with diabetes; nearing finalization Brochure distributed to coalition in English and Spanish versions
    Oct-Dec 2020 Jan-Mar 2021 Apr-Jun 2021 July-Sept 2021
    Completed Year 1
    Oct-Dec 2021 Jan-Mar 2022 Apr-Jun 2022 July-Sept 2022
    Completed Year 1

  • Task 3: Work with OCM and KHP to develop diabetic outreach and implant oral health education

    Process Measure: Oral health curriculum included in diabetes education/programming.
     
    Quarterly Tracking
    Oct-Dec 2019 Jan-Mar 2020 Apr-Jun 2020 July-Sept 2020
    OCM intake forms have been updated to include oral health questions and dental care plans developed in pilot with CEFM). Smiles for Life curriculum training hosted for new CHWs All patients assessed for access to dental care provider, additional dental health for diabetic patients During pandemic OCM continued to provide patient education via telephone, assess for SDoH including food insecurity and dental access. KHP's CHW program began recruiting patients in late September 2020. Oral health education will be incorporated in CHW care plans beginning in Oct 2020 (year 2 workplan).
    Oct-Dec 2020 Jan-Mar 2021 Apr-Jun 2021 July-Sept 2021
    All SLMC OPCM staff completed the Smiles for Life” curriculum. SLMC OPCM partnered with Asante to develop a Dental Care Plan for use with Epic Healthy Planet. No activity this quarter OCM continues to review OH status at initial intake assessment, help patients identify primary care dentist, schedule appointments, and arrange transportation.   Brochures delivered to KHP and OCM: oral health for patients with diabetes, denture care for patients with diabetes.  OCM team continues to help patients navigate the healthcare system including pointing them to their assigned Primary Care Dentist if/when they are CHA Members.
    Oct-Dec 2021 Jan-Mar 2022 Apr-Jun 2022 July-Sept 2022

Strategy 3: Increase oral health utilization among adult behavioral health patients by 5%

Sep
2023

  • Task 1: OIT project with BestCare - integrated services. Year-long; will get free services at OIT dental hygiene clinic.

    Process Measure: Identify baseline data. Track # of patients served. 
     
    Quarterly Tracking
    Oct-Dec 2021 Jan-Mar 2022 Apr-Jun 2022 July-Sept 2022
     

  • Task 2: Develop educational material for behavioral health patients

    Oct-Dec 2020 Jan-Mar 2021 Apr-Jun 2021 July-Sept 2021
    Not yet started Not yet started KCPH developed OH + BH infographic for web, sent to coalition plus BH and OH providers for review KHP's Director of BH shared BH + OH infographic with colleagues for review and feedback.  
    Oct-Dec 2021 Jan-Mar 2022 Apr-Jun 2022 July-Sept 2022

Strategy 4: Use case management/care coordination to schedule and follow up with diabetic clients about oral health.

Sep
2022

  • Task 1: Work with CHA diabetic education to provide education materials to clients. Develop education tool for diabetics with dentures

    Quarterly Tracking
    Oct-Dec 2021 Jan-Mar 2022 Apr-Jun 2022 July-Sept 2022
    Completed Year 2
     

  • Task 2: Work with OCM and KHP to develop diabetic outreach and implant oral health education

    Quarterly Tracking
    Oct-Dec 2021 Jan-Mar 2022 Apr-Jun 2022 July-Sept 2022
    Completed Year 2

Strategy 5: Increase oral health screening and utilization among adults with documented social needs by 15%

Sep
2023

  • Task 1: OIT project and community health integration - provide services to adults in crisis at Klamath Gospel Mission

    Process Measure: Identify baseline data. Track # of patients served. 
     
    Quarterly Tracking
    Oct-Dec 2021 Jan-Mar 2022 Apr-Jun 2022 July-Sept 2022

Objective 3: Increase percentage of pregnant women seen by dentist during pregnancy to 35%

Strategy 1: Develop education materials for providers about safe and appropriate procedures

Sep
2022

  • Task 1: Work with OBs and dentists to develop appropriate materials for interdisciplinary communication

    Process Measure: Materials developed and distributed.
     
    Quarterly Tracking
    Oct-Dec 2019 Jan-Mar 2020 Apr-Jun 2020 July-Sept 2020
    KCPH: Dental recommendations obtained from Dr. Cory Johnson; initial planning of infographics targeting dentists KCPH: additional planning of brochure for dentists Dr. Williams of KHP and Dr. Johnson of Applewood co-authored and finalized an oral health during pregnancy brochure for dentists. Electronic file distributed to KBOHC, Applewood Completed
    Oct-Dec 2019 Jan-Mar 2020 Apr-Jun 2020 July-Sept 2020
    Completed Year 1

  • Task 2: Create work group to create/find appropriate materials for patient/community education

    Process Measure: Work group formed.
     
    Quarterly Tracking
    Oct-Dec 2020 Jan-Mar 2021 Apr-Jun 2021 July-Sept 2021
    Not yet started Work group formed to discuss pregnant patient oral health ed needs KCPH designed a brochure on oral health for pregnant moms, KBOHC approved it.  Electronic file distributed to coalition and Pregnancy Hope Center.  CHA will use brochure in incentive program. Completed
    Oct-Dec 2021 Jan-Mar 2022 Apr-Jun 2022 July-Sept 2022
    Completed Year 1

  • Task 3: Educate mothers on the importance of oral health through WIC and community dental screenings

    Process Measure: Survey distribution
     
    Quarterly Tracking
    Oct-Dec 2019 Jan-Mar 2020 Apr-Jun 2020 July-Sept 2020
    No activites.  No activites.  OIT Dental Hygiene’s Community Health Lead administered 11 surveys to mothers on oral health behaviors and perceptions at WIC during Konnect Dental Kare screenings as part of a Masters research project.Follow-up will be implemented by Oregon Tech Dental hygiene students. Planning for monthly education with WIC clients, as well as a new nutritional option to include activities such as food label reading
    Oct-Dec 2020 Jan-Mar 2021 Apr-Jun 2021 July-Sept 2021
    Communicated research findings to WIC partners A Community Health group is forming, setting up times to start educating, screening in collaboration with Konnect Dental Kare in Fall 2021 No activity this quarter.  During summer term Oregon Tech provided free services for 7 children from underserved schools: cleanings, radiographs, exams, and fluoride. (Carryover from spring term.) They conducted planning for fall term to include assessment and education focusing on mostly nutrition and home care habits. 
    Oct-Dec 2021 Jan-Mar 2022 Apr-Jun 2022 July-Sept 2022
    No activity this quarter. 

Strategy 2: Develop education materials for patients

Sep
2022

  • Task 1: Work with CCO, providers, KCPH to create materials for pregnant women about the benefits of good oral health during pregnancy

    Process Measure: Materials created and # distributed by program.
     
    Quarterly Tracking
    Oct-Dec 2019 Jan-Mar 2020 Apr-Jun 2020 July-Sept 2020
    Not yet started. Design and printing quotes pending KCPH began design of a Title V-themed infographic for pregnant women, including encouragement to see dentist Work group review of KCPH Title V health tips for pregnant moms poster and social media posts. "Health Tips for Pregnant Moms" poster distributed to infant mortality work group in English and Spanish; tips included as flyer in the Direct On-Scene Education (DOSE) program envelope.
    Oct-Dec 2020 Jan-Mar 2021 Apr-Jun 2021 July-Sept 2021
    Completed Year 1
    Oct-Dec 2021 Jan-Mar 2022 Apr-Jun 2022 July-Sept 2022
    Completed Year 1

  • Task 2: Infant oral health brochure

    Oct-Dec 2020 Jan-Mar 2021 Apr-Jun 2021 July-Sept 2021
    KCPH developed basic graphic structure with stock photos In partnership with OIT DH Dept, KCPH/KBOHC designed brochure, translated it to Spanish and assessed readability  Finalized and sent print order.  Electronic version distributed to coalition. Copies of brochure in English and Spanish versions distributed at Community Baby Shower.
    Oct-Dec 2021 Jan-Mar 2022 Apr-Jun 2022 July-Sept 2022
    Completed Year 2

Strategy 3: Develop shared protocol among obstetricians and dental providers about referral and communication between specialties

Sep
2022

  • Task 1: Work with CCO and other providers to expedite and improve the number of pregnant women seeing dental providers

    Process Measure: Increase in # of pregnant women seen by dental providers.
     
     
    Quarterly Tracking
    Oct-Dec 2019 Jan-Mar 2020 Apr-Jun 2020 July-Sept 2020
    CHA reached out to PCP & OB providers about pregnant women seeing a dentist during their pregnancy. CHA is compiling data on preventive dental services for pregnant members CHA continued to work with OB offices, PCP and dental offices to request expedited services CHA worked with OB offices, PCP & dental offices to request expedited services when they were there.  Dental offices closed for several weeks during the coronavirus shutdown.  Only one (2.5%) pregnant CHA member had a preventive dental visit during this period. Over 775 (3.6%) of CHA patients had a PDV in this period.  No pregnant CHA members had a preventive dental visit during this period.  Of CHA patients, 1294 (5.9%) had a PDV in this period.  
    Oct-Dec 2020 Jan-Mar 2021 Apr-Jun 2021 July-Sept 2021
    Encouraging pregnant moms to get assigned to dental provider as part of incentive program.  Need offices to actually do cleaning at 1 appt.  Preventive care data for Oct-Dec. 2020 and full year 2020 will be reported after March 31, 2021 due to claims submission lag CHA reached out to pregnant women seeing midwife at Klamath Birth Center to assist with PCD access, invited them to participate in Prenatal Incentive Program. 6.5% of CHA members had a preventive dental visit (1,505) of which, one member was pregnant at time of visit (1.6% of pregnant members) Access to care improving with the addition of Advantage Dental to provider panel. At end of June 2021, only 7.2% of CHA members had a preventive dental visit (1729) and 1.0% of pregnant members received a PDV (2).  CHA distributed oral care for pregnant women brochure to local teen parent program for use in the fall.  
    Oct-Dec 2021 Jan-Mar 2022 Apr-Jun 2022 July-Sept 2022
    No activity this quarter

Objective 4: Advocate, research and support at least two oral health policies or initiatives per year

Strategy 1: Join Oral Health Progress and Equity Network (OPEN)

Sep
2023

  • Task 1: Support oral health policies or initiatives as notified through OPEN and/or Healthy Teeth, Bright Futures Coalition

    Process Measure: # of policies supported/letters created.
     
    Quarterly Tracking
    Oct-Dec 2019 Jan-Mar 2020 Apr-Jun 2020 July-Sept 2020
    Letters sent to 2 Oregon senators in support of dental benefits in Medicare KBOHC endorsed Healthy Teeth Bright Futures campaign through Oregon Community Foundation. KBOHC became a member of OCF's Pediatric Oral Health Coalition KBOHC signed onto a letter sent by OPEN to US congressional leaders asking they  include policies supportive of oral health in next COVID-19 relief package. Sent copies to state senators and rep.  Coalition endorsed the Healthy Teeth Bright Futures letter to policymakers regarding oral health and the coming Oregon budget rebalance
    Oct-Dec 2020 Jan-Mar 2021 Apr-Jun 2021 July-Sept 2021
    Signed onto letter to share OH recommendations with incoming Biden-Harris administration; signed onto letter to Gov. Brown requesting OHA’s dental rate cut be put on hold pending development of a fair methodology Submitted comments on CMS's interim final rule Emails to Oregon's U.S. senators and representative on dental for Medicare. Email to Sen. Linthicum on Healthy Teeth Bright Futures (HTBF) bill. Email to Rep. Bentz on funding for CDC's Div. of OH. Submitted testimony for Oregon HB 2969 (HTBF bill). Emailed Sen. Merkley supporting funding for dental therapy. Signed onto letter to Advisory Committee on Training in Primary Care Medicine and Dentistry to add dental therapy to federal workforce programs.  Signed onto letter to thank the key committees in the US House for their work to advance Medicare dental coverage.
    Oct-Dec 2021 Jan-Mar 2022 Apr-Jun 2022 July-Sept 2022
    No activity this quarter.
     

Strategy 2: Secure funding for research and policy health impact assessment

Sep
2023

  • Task 1: Research grant opportunities (OIT search engine)

    Process Measure: # grants found/# grants applied for.
     
    Quarterly Tracking
    Oct-Dec 2019 Jan-Mar 2020 Apr-Jun 2020 July-Sept 2020
    KCPH researched grant opportunities at OIT, 5 found, preparing 1 grant application KHP applied for the West Family Foundation grant for oral health promo/ed materials Communicated continued intention to apply for grant with West Family Foundation during COVID-19 pandemic The West Family Foundation abandoned the Spring 2020 grant cycle.  They will instead provide assistance those displaced by wildfires in southern Oregon. Task 2.1.1.
    Oct-Dec 2020 Jan-Mar 2021 Apr-Jun 2021 July-Sept 2021
    Completed Year 1
    Oct-Dec 2021 Jan-Mar 2022 Apr-Jun 2022 July-Sept 2022
    Completed Year 1
     

  • Task 2: Apply for a grant and/or work with community partners to house an intern/staff for impact assessment

    Process Measure: # grants applied for.
     
    Quarterly Tracking
    Oct-Dec 2019 Jan-Mar 2020 Apr-Jun 2020 July-Sept 2020
    KCPH/KHP applied for OHSU Campus for Rural Health graduate student for HIA on water fluoridation, did not receive; continuing discussions with CRH staff KBOHC connected with OHSU Rural Campus to conduct a literature review and funding review regarding impact assessment. KBOHC will consider an intern post-COVID-19 No activities this quarter. KBOHC has partnered with OSHU Rural Campus and local Community Research Hub through Healthy Klamath. KBOHC is creating an intern "position description" to post with OHSU in year 2 of workplan No activities this quarter
    Oct-Dec 2020 Jan-Mar 2021 Apr-Jun 2021 July-Sept 2021
    No activity this quarter Met with regional consultants about project feasibility Planning for talk given by consultants to OIT DH students during fall term, possibly involving additional community advocates No activity this quarter
    Oct-Dec 2021 Jan-Mar 2022 Apr-Jun 2022 July-Sept 2022
    No activity this quarter

Strategy 3: Recruit intern or student to research policies and impact on oral health

Sep
2023

  • Task 1: Conduct impact assessment

    Process Measure: Student/intern "hired". Impact assessment and meta-analysis complete.
     
    Quarterly Tracking
    Oct-Dec 2019 Jan-Mar 2020 Apr-Jun 2020 July-Sept 2020
    See Task 4.2.2 above See Task 4.2.2. See Task 4.2.2. See Task 4.2.2.
    Oct-Dec 2020 Jan-Mar 2021 Apr-Jun 2021 July-Sept 2021
    No activity this quarter No activity this quarter No activity this quarter No activity this quarter
    Oct-Dec 2020 Jan-Mar 2021 Apr-Jun 2021 July-Sept 2021
    No activity this quarter

Strategy 4: Support local initiatives to improve oral health among Klamath Basin residents

Sep
2023

  • Task 1: Support local advocates in campaign to improve nutrition among school food services offerings

    Process Measure: # Letter of supports, # engaged community members.
     
    Quarterly Tracking
    Oct-Dec 2021 Jan-Mar 2022 Apr-Jun 2022 July-Sept 2022
    No activity this quarter.

County : Klamath

Trends Among Youth, Dental Visits, and Their Oral Health

64.7%

OR Counties
OR Counties

OR Value
OR Value

Prior Value
Prior Value

Trend
Trend

This indicator shows the percentage of 8th grade students who have visited a dentist or dental hygienist in the past 12 months.
Learn More
Students who Visited Dentist or Dental Hygienist in Past Year: 8th Graders
Data Source: Oregon Student Health Survey
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