FDI launches policy brief that addresses oral health of people on the move

The World Dental Federation (FDI) says the “oral health of displaced communities remains a neglected health issue”, arguing that these groups must have better access to the care they need.

In a policy brief launched in conjunction with Lancet Migration, FDI says that refugees, migrants and people on the move, who number in excess of 1 billion people globally, simply don’t have the access they need to oral healthcare and this must be addressed by incorporating their care into general health systems.

In a bid to place focus on this pressing issue, FDI and Lancet Migration have developed a policy brief directed at policymakers, governments and health systems, in addition to non-governmental organisations and charities, and academics and research institutions.

Stressing the need for action to address healthcare inequalities for displaced persons, the Oral Health for People on the Move policy brief contains a list of action items which include, among others:

-    increasing adequate epidemiological surveillance systems
-    oral health education
-    access to care; and 
-    access to digital technologies.

Acknowledging that “oral health is a fundamental part of overall health and a basic human right”, it is hoped the brief will spur action to address the needs of this neglected group of people.

To read the full story and access the Health for People on the Move policy brief, go to “FDI and Lancet Migration launch joint policy brief on oral health for people on the move”