Leading scientists call for medical/dental collaboration

Physicians and dentists with an interest in geriatric medicine will have a unique opportunity to discuss the associations between oral health and overall health at a program on October 16 at the New York Academy of Sciences (NYAS). While scientists, health care providers, policymakers, and the public recognize oral health's importance to health and well-being, a collaborative approach to disease management can enhance the quality of health care delivery, advance health care for seniors, and improve patient outcomes.

"The program creates a forum for open dialogue among scientists, clinicians and healthcare leaders to exchange knowledge and ideas regarding the oral healthcare issues unique to our senior population," said Beth Truett, president and CEO, Oral Health America. "Dental and medical care providers rarely have a chance to communicate about collaborative treatment options. We are honored to be working with NYAS, Columbia University College of Dental Medicine and Columbia University College of Physicians on this health integration program."

The meeting, entitled Collaborative Health Care for Older Adults: A Symposium for Creating Dialogue Between Medicine and Dentistry, allows participants to improve their understanding of the necessity of including oral health as part of routine health care, and discuss advances in our understanding of diseases of the mouth and their impact on systemic health and diagnostics.

This continuing medical education program is sponsored by Columbia University College of Dental Medicine, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, Oral Health America and NYAS. Program supporters include Aetna Dental, Colgate, and DENTSPLY International. For further information please go to the conference website at www.nyas.org/health-aging.