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As we welcome July, we are reminded that lasting progress in health is rarely achieved alone. It grows through collaboration—bringing together diverse perspectives, shared expertise, and a collective commitment to improving the health and well-being of our communities.

This month, we recognize National Cleft & Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month and National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, observances that highlight the importance of multidisciplinary care, health equity, and person-centered approaches to improving oral and overall health. They also reflect a message that continues to inspire our work: meaningful change happens when we work together across professions, organizations, and communities.

Best Practice Approach: Integrating Oral Health Care into Primary Care 

Last month, the Santa Fe Group had the privilege of convening leaders from across healthcare, dentistry, public health, education, policy, philanthropy, academia, and industry in Washington, D.C., to explore the future of whole-person health and oral health integration.

The conversations were inspiring, the partnerships were meaningful, and the work is just beginning. We look forward to sharing highlights, resources, and opportunities to continue advancing oral health as an essential part of whole-person health in the weeks ahead.

JOURNALS, REPORTS & WHITE PAPERS

Best Practice Approach: Integrating Oral Health Care into Primary Care 

ASTDD and the National Maternal and Child Oral Health Resource Center have released a new Best Practice Approach Report highlighting evidence-based strategies for integrating oral health into primary care across the lifespan. The report features successful models, interprofessional approaches, and practical examples that support whole-person, integrated care.

CDA Advocacy Helps Preserve Access to Medi-Cal Dental Care

The California Dental Association recently led a coalition of more than 70 organizations advocating against proposed cuts to Medi-Cal dental funding. The effort underscores the importance of strong partnerships and advocacy to preserve access to oral healthcare for millions of Californians, particularly underserved populations.

Whole-System Trust in Science, Medicine, and Public Health

Trust in healthcare extends beyond individual clinicians—it depends on confidence in the entire system. This JAMA viewpoint explores the importance of strengthening trust across science, medicine, and public health to improve health outcomes, foster collaboration, and support informed decision-making.

Measuring Coalition Functioning: Refining Constructs through Factor Analysis

Strong partnerships are essential for advancing complex public health initiatives. This study examines how coalition effectiveness can be measured and strengthened, offering valuable insights into the factors that contribute to successful collaboration and sustainable community impact.

Whole-System Trust in Science, Medicine, and Public Health

Trust in healthcare extends beyond individual clinicians—it depends on confidence in the entire system. This JAMA viewpoint explores the importance of strengthening trust across science, medicine, and public health to improve health outcomes, foster collaboration, and support informed decision-making.

AROUND THE WORLD

Government of Canada continues to strengthen access to oral health care

In celebration of Canada Day on July 1, we recognize Canada's continued commitment to improving access to oral healthcare. Health Canada recently announced new funding through its Oral Health Access Fund to establish a mobile dental clinic and expand services for seniors, children, and individuals with special needs in Francophone communities. The initiative reflects the power of community partnerships to reduce barriers to care and improve oral health equity.