ADAVB in pilot project to promote health

The Action plan for oral health promotion 2013-2017, was launched by Health Minister David Davis on 27 May. (Mr Davis [left] is pictured holding the plan with ADAVB President Dr Gordon Burt.)

The Action plan includes $14.9 million to prevent dental problems such as decay and gum disease.

One of the action items involving the ADAVB, is a partnership with the State Government to deliver a pilot project to promote health – Health Promoting Practices. With the pilot also involving the Australian Physiotherapy Association Victorian Branch, the Health Department is funding the development of a voluntary interdisciplinary framework through which health practices can better promote health, building on their existing commitment to this important aspect of professional health service.

Dental and physiotherapy practices have been chosen as the initial sites for the pilot project as they hold unique opportunities for health promotion. As oral health and movement/function are being increasingly related to general health and wellbeing, dental and physiotherapy professionals are playing an increasingly important role in providing health information about many aspects of health.

Another noteworthy project focuses once again on the role of dental practitioners in encouraging their patients who use tobacco products to contact Quitline. Opportunistic interventions which do not unduly disrupt the normal model of care are to be promoted.  This project involves the Department of Health, Quit Victoria, Dental Health Services Victoria and the ADAVB.

More information will be published on these and other projects covered by the Action Plan as development proceeds.