New Report Finds Rural Americans Lack Access to Oral Healthcare

Approximately 46 million people in rural America face significant barriers to oral healthcare, as revealed by the 2023 State of Oral Health Equity in America (SOHEA) survey conducted by CareQuest Institute for Oral Health. The report highlights that 40% of adults in rural areas haven’t received professional dental care in more than a year, surpassing the figures for urban (35%) and suburban (30%) residents. Challenges in rural oral healthcare include provider shortages, lack of insurance coverage, and transportation barriers. The findings indicate that 34% of rural individuals rate their oral health as fair or poor, compared to 27% and 24% for urban and suburban residents, respectively. Furthermore, 67% of rural areas are identified as Dental Health Professional Shortage Areas. Dental insurance coverage is lacking for 34% of rural residents, while the figures stand at 29% for urban and 24% for suburban residents. To address these disparities, the report recommends strategies such as implementing teledentistry, expanding dental coverage and the workforce, and integrating medical and dental care. The goal is to enhance access to oral health care for the 46 million people residing in rural areas, recognizing oral health as both a health and equity issue. The report emphasizes the importance of collecting data, sharing findings, and advancing policies to guide these populations to adequate care and better health. Click here to read more.