CHICAGO--People to People Citizen Ambassador Programs and the American Dental Hygienists' Association coordinated a delegation of 52 licensed dental hygienists, accompanied by 141 guests, who traveled to Russia and Poland from Aug. 24-Sept. 2.
This unique opportunity provided the selected delegates with the chance to meet their colleagues in St. Petersburg and Warsaw to engage discussions on a number of topics including: the Russian, Polish, and American health-care systems, how the education systems vary in their designs to prepare oral health professionals including dental hygienists, and a variety of public health measures intended for disease prevention and health promotion.
Participants from both sides shared their knowledge of successful techniques and effective strategies for impacting professional education, regulation, standards of dental hygiene practice, and integration of oral health services among targeted populations.
Select members of ADHA were invited to participate in this delegation based on their areas of interest, experience, and expertise in the field of dental hygiene. A broad cross section of delegates, both geographically and professionally, represented a range of experience from three years to more than 40 years in the dental hygiene profession.
A variety of dental hygiene professional roles were included in the delegation; educators, researchers, practitioners, administrators, and the members of the corporate industry were all represented.
ADHA was applauded throughout the journey for their initiative in fostering international goodwill and promoting the profession of dental hygiene with many countries who share the common goal of improving the oral and total health of all people.
Major focus areas for the working sessions for this delegation included:
* Challenges faced in access to oral health care
* Ways in which oral health care is provided and funded
* Delivery of oral health services in urban and rural communities
The delegation combined educational activities and meetings centered on dental hygiene and public health in both Russia and Poland, while cultural activities highlighted the sights and sounds of these countries. Delegates enjoyed an insider view of the dental care systems in Russia and Poland and experienced these cultures in a way that most travelers never do.
The delegation visited two orphanages to conduct one-on-one instructional sessions with the children on proper brushing and flossing techniques, and the importance of nutrition. They also observed the ways in which their professional counterparts practice in their own settings.
The delegation was led by Margaret Lappan Green, RDH, MS, immediate past president of ADHA. In addition, Professor Irene M. Connolly, senior instructor at Old Dominion University, joined her as co-leader of the program.
Ambassador Programs has been conducting educational programs for professionals in some of the world's most fascinating destinations for more than 50 years. The delegations allow professionals to exchange information with their overseas counterparts while forging the bonds of international friendship.
Details on upcoming delegations are available by calling (877) 787-2000, ext. 8100, or via e-mail at [email protected].
