Building Veteran-Centered Oral Health Capacity in Montana
GrantID: 59331
Grant Funding Amount Low: Open
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: Open
Summary
Grant Overview
Montana's Initiative for Veteran-Centered Oral Health Research: Identifying Disparities
Montana is characterized by vast rural landscapes and a dispersed veteran population, which introduces unique challenges in accessing dental care. The state has roughly 97,000 veterans, many of whom live in remote areas with limited access to health services, including dental care. Research indicates significant oral health disparities exist among veteran populations, making targeted interventions essential for improving health outcomes.
The primary groups facing these disparities include veterans residing in frontier counties, where access to healthcare facilities decreases as population density dwindles. This population often lacks adequate transportation, leading to lower rates of preventative care and increased incidences of emergency dental situations. Additionally, veterans from low-income households within these areas struggle to afford necessary care, further accentuating the crucial need for comprehensive research to inform future interventions.
To address these issues within the state, the Veteran-Centered Oral Health Research initiative aims to identify the specific dental health disparities faced by Montana veterans. By conducting thorough assessments, the program seeks to generate data-driven insights that can inform policies designed to improve veteran oral health services. This research is expected to underpin the development of tailored outreach programs and resource allocation designed to enhance access to care.
By implementing evidence-based strategies that are responsive to the unique challenges faced by Montana's veteran population, this initiative holds the potential to significantly improve oral health outcomes. Such improvements will be particularly critical in remote regions, where expanding access to dental services can lead to healthier communities. The findings from this research will not only contribute to better policy decisions but will also foster a more robust framework for ongoing support and advocacy for Montana's veterans.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements