227115 Social justice, social contracts, and the public's oral health

Tuesday, November 9, 2010 : 9:30 AM - 9:45 AM

Charla J. Lautar, RDH, PhD , School of Allied Health, Southern Illinois University Carbondale, Carbondale, IL
Scott L. Tomar, DMD, DrPH , Department of Community Dentistry and Behavioral Science, University of Florida College of Dentistry, Gainesville, FL
     
In the field of political philosophy or politics, a social contract is formed whereby government exists for the sake of its citizens. Perceiving oral health care as a right, it is our duty and the duty of the government to provide this care. Social justice, impartially looking at the wants and needs of society, dictates that no one should be denied dental care. Yet, disparities are well documented. This presentation will examine several ways providers in private and public sectors, ordinary citizens, and legislators can advocate for fairness in oral health care delivery and dental services. Additionally, government policies will be examined. Recommendations will be made to aid in health care reform such as the obligations of individual providers and the responsibilities of professional bodies.

Learning Areas:
Advocacy for health and health education
Provision of health care to the public
Public health or related organizational policy, standards, or other guidelines

Learning Objectives:
Identify 2 ways to advocate for oral health care. Define social justice. Explain his/her role in terms of social contract.

Keywords: Oral Health, Advocacy

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Qualified on the content I am responsible for because: I am a dental hygienist and teach ethics in a dental hygiene program
Any relevant financial relationships? No

I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.

Back to: 4053.0: Addressing Oral Health Disparities to Improve Oral Health Equity for the Underserved