Addressing Barriers to Healthcare Access: A Comprehensive Analysis of Oral Health Disparities in Duval County, Florida, United States

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The report highlights the pressing need to address barriers to healthcare access, particularly among marginalized communities, and the associated impact on population health. The report emphasizes the overarching goal of preventing and mitigating oral and craniofacial diseases while enhancing access to preventive services and dental care, as outlined in Healthy People 2030. It underscores the importance of achieving equity and reducing health disparities in society, with a focus on evidence-based interventions tailored to diverse population groups. Furthermore, the report delves into the challenges specific to oral health access in the Florida population. It discusses the burden of oral diseases in both pediatric and adult populations, emphasizing the link between oral health and overall well-being. The disparities in healthcare access based on race and socioeconomic factors are also explored. The report examines initiatives aimed at addressing these challenges, including mobile dental programs and non-profit organizations dedicated to providing dental care to underserved populations. It underscores the role of community engagement through social media platforms in raising awareness, evaluating strategies, and establishing SMART goals to improve healthcare access. In conclusion, the report calls for collaborative efforts at individual, community, and organizational levels to promote oral health and general well-being in Duval County. It emphasizes the potential for enhancing access to healthcare resources to create a healthier community and maintain social harmony.