Integration of Behavioral and Oral Health in Health Centers

ABSTRACT

Introduction

In recent years, the demand for behavioral health services has grown. There is increased need for early access to behavioral health and improved understanding of the relationship between oral health and behavioral health.

Objective

The objective of this article is to provide understanding of how oral health and behavioral health can be integrated in health centers.

Methods

This paper discusses the relationship between oral health and behavioral health, reviews the history of integration, and highlights health centers that have developed systems for dental professionals to engage in two aspects of integration of behavioral and oral health (IBOH) – behavioral health screenings and referral management

Results

Health centers across the country are implementing strategies to increase access to oral health and behavioral health care through integration of the two disciplines.

Conclusion

In health centers, disciplines like primary medical care, dental care, behavioral health, and pharmacy are often co-located. This creates a unique opportunity to provide integrated care, including oral health and behavioral health.

KEYWORDS:

• Integration
• behavioral health
• mental health
• depression
• screenings
• FQHC
• anxiety
• PHQ
• medical dental integration
• health center

Disclosure Statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Candace L. H. Owen

Candace L. H. Owen is the Senior Director of Education and Strategic Partnerships for the National Network for Oral Health Access. She is also a registered dental hygienist. Her work focuses on increasing access to health for underserved populations, the oral health workforce, and advancing oral health equity.

Huong Le

Huong Le has been the Chief Dental Officer for Asian Health Services for over 20 years. She oversees several dental sites that serve low-income and uninsured Bay Area residents. She received her Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University of Texas, Houston. Dr. Le serves on many boards and committees to support communities throughout California and nationwide.

Rebecca A. Cornille

Rebecca A. Cornille is the Chief Dental Officer at Vista Community Clinic. She was named Chief Dental Officer in 2020. Dr. Cornille also has a wide range of teaching, writing, and speaking experience as well as community volunteerism. She received her Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University of Missouri–Kansas City School of Dentistry.