Oral Health Literacy and Awareness Act of 2023
The implementation of HB994 is expected to enhance oral health literacy, particularly among vulnerable populations such as children, pregnant women, and ethnic and racial minorities. By focusing on evidence-based strategies, the campaign aims to educate individuals on preventive measures against oral diseases like caries and periodontal disease. Furthermore, it seeks to provide culturally and linguistically appropriate information, ensuring that the campaign resonates effectively with diverse communities.
House Bill 994, known as the Oral Health Literacy and Awareness Act of 2023, is designed to amend the Public Health Service Act to establish a public education campaign aimed at improving awareness and literacy around oral health. The bill tasks the Secretary of Health and Human Services, in conjunction with the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), to create and implement this campaign. It intends to include all relevant programs under HRSA, thereby ensuring a comprehensive approach to elevating oral health awareness across various demographics.
While HB994 has received general support for its focus on oral health, concerns may arise regarding the execution and funding of the proposed campaign. The bill authorizes $750,000 for each fiscal year from 2023 through 2027 for its implementation, prompting discussions on whether this funding will be adequate to meet the campaign's goals. Additionally, challenges might emerge in ensuring that the campaign materials are appropriate and effective for the targeted populations, especially in culturally diverse areas.