A landmark study by United Concordia Dental shows reduced hospitalizations and health care costs are possible when individuals with at least one chronic disease, or who are pregnant, receive treatment for their gum disease. The study was spearheaded by Dr. Marjorie Jeffcoat, D.M.D., professor and dean emeritus at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine.
United Concordia Dental partners to improve health of Americans
Along with other national leaders in health care, United Concordia Dental is a founding member of the Harvard Initiative to Integrate Oral Health and Primary Care. Directed by the Harvard School of Dental Medicine, the Initiative's objectives are to:
- Foster a discussion about and advocate for integrating oral health and primary care, especially among corporate executives and public officials;
- Guide and develop public policy;
- Provide interdisciplinary connections among Harvard students and faculty and industry leaders to make recommendations on effective oral health and primary care integration;
- Collaborate with national, state and local partners to develop innovative strategies for improving oral and systemic health outcomes.
United Concordia Dental's participation is the result of its focus on the critical connection between oral and overall wellness and the recent publishing of its landmark oral health study by the American Journal of Preventive Medicine.
Data from the study have recently been presented as compelling evidence on the costly impact of poor oral health on overall health at an event sponsored by the Harvard School of Dental Medicine entitled, "Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is: The Economic Imperative of Oral Health." The symposium, held in October 2014, included a panel of experts moderated by United Concordia Dental's lead researcher, Dr. Marjorie Jeffcoat, D.M.D., professor and dean emeritus, University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. This research is helping doctors, dentists and patients to pursue better overall health for Americans through better oral health.
