2022 National Network for Oral Health Access Annual Conference

Oral health providers play an important role in supporting survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV). In several studies, many survivors of IPV saw a dentist when signs of abuse were present and many were not asked about their injuries (as many as 89% in one study). Oral health providers have opportunities to offer their patients information on IPV, reduce isolation, and increase safety by referring patients to community-based organizations for support. In addition, national referrals, including those that help patients receive free cosmetic and dental reconstructive surgeries, will be discussed. This session will highlight resources offered by Health Partners on IPV + Exploitation (our HRSA-funded NTTAP), detail national hotlines and oral health programs to support survivors of DV, and discuss the latest research on the topic.

Learning Objectives:

1. Identify the prevalence of Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) and oral health problems associated with IPV.

2. Identify an evidence-based universal education approach (CUES -Confidentiality, Universal Education, and Support) to inform patients about healthy relationships and assess for IPV.

3. List the benefits of partnering with local DV Agency/Community-based Organizations to promote bi-directional client referrals.

Speaker: Rebecca Levenson, MA, Senior Health Policy Consultant, Futures Without Violence

Date: November 7, 2022 at 1:00 PM-1:45 PM CT