G-1911-15563

This investment allows the Michigan Oral Health Coalition (MOHC) to support diverse state and community partners advocating for a comprehensive adult dental benefit in Medicaid, building a statewide outcomes measurement structure, and updating the state oral health plan. This work aligns with The DentaQuest Partnership priorities to support grassroots partners in systems-change advocacy and expand access to public adult dental benefits. The coalition is at a key development point; there is opportunity to continue to strengthen the diverse group of partners working on oral health policy and systems change in Michigan, building on recent successes like the passage of dental therapy legislation and prior work by the MOHC to grow nine local coalitions. Specific deliverables for 2020 include: providing advocacy and other trainings for community stakeholders, conducting an oral health environmental scan and consumer focus groups, and cultivating legislative champions. $150,000 will support hiring an executive director, mini-grants to local coalitions, materials development and meeting support, and other administrative costs.