Dental care remains the most unmet healthcare need for individuals with disabilities, with patients and their families facing numerous barriers to receiving care. Challenges include inadequate insurance coverage, insufficient reimbursement policies, a shortage of providers trained in disability-focused care, and dental offices that lack the necessary accommodations for patients with certain disabilities.
To address these challenges, NYU Dentistry established the Oral Health Center for People with Disabilities five years ago. This state-of-the-art clinic is staffed by a compassionate, multidisciplinary team committed to providing comprehensive dental care tailored to the unique needs of patients with disabilities. Additionally, all NYU dental students receive training in disability care, and the College leads several continuing education programs aimed at improving oral health care practices for dentists and other health professionals.
The symposium’s keynote speakers include:
• Jim Brett, Chair of the President’s Committee for People with Intellectual Disabilities, who also serves as President and CEO of the New England Council.
• Congressman Seth Moulton (D-MA 6th District), sponsor of the bipartisan Healthcare Extension and Accessibility for Developmentally Disabled and Underserved Population (HEADs UP) Act, which seeks to expand and improve healthcare services for people with disabilities.
• Kim Hill Ridley, New York State’s first-ever Chief Disability Officer.
• Kate Swenson, a parent advocate and author of “Finding Cooper’s Voice,” a blog focused on the challenges and joys of raising a child with autism.
In addition to the keynote addresses, the event will feature panel discussions on the importance of integrated care for individuals with special health care needs and alternative models of support services that ensure better health outcomes for people with disabilities.
The AHEAD Symposium is free and open to the public, with prior registration required. To register for the event and view a full schedule, visit [dental.nyu.edu/ahead](https://dental.nyu.edu/ahead).
Accessibility
This virtual event will feature closed captioning for all audio presentations. Attendees will need an internet connection and a computer or smartphone to participate. For any additional accommodation requests, please contact the event organizers at dental.web@nyu.edu by November 8, 2024.
By bringing together experts from various fields, the AHEAD Symposium aims to drive forward the conversation on how to make oral health care more accessible and equitable for people with disabilities.
More information is available on the NYU College of Dentistry’s event page, https://dental.nyu.edu/ahead.
