Multi-disciplinary approach to wellness in Rhode Island

The Rhode Island Alliance for Retired Americans and the Working Rhode Island Coalition, are organizations that maintain a wellness program called HealthLink Wellness. The primary focus is a multi-disciplinary approach to community health, including oral and cardiovascular health through periodic community based screenings and the encouragement of adoption of healthy behaviors. All health education materials are presented by physicians but integrated in the discussions are relevant oral health issues.

Medical screenings include blood pressure, blood glucose, cholesterol (TC & HDL), body mass index and self-perception of health status. Oral health screenings include assessment of soft tissue, DMFT, gingival recession, number of teeth/edentulism, and denture status/condition. An oral cancer screening is also performed, and oral health quality of life questions are answered.

Over a 24 month period a 30% improvement in total cholesterol, 32% in blood glucose and 15% in Blood pressure were observed. Oral health data is primarily assessed on a cross sectional basis and it has been observed that those with gingival recession were 73% more likely to have an increased 10 year probability of coronary heart disease as measured by a Framingham Study CHD risk model.

Currently the wellness program is expanding to include the recruitment of primary care physicians into the “Advanced Medical Home” model. Members with limited or no health coverage have access to optometric and dental offices that offer discounts for their services. The ultimate goal is to build a culture of prevention where home, community and professional office work together as a team.