PDHA Public Health Council

In an effort to increase access to oral health care for all Pennsylvanians, the PDHA Public Health Council assists dental hygienists in finding avenues for community health service and serves as a resource for dental hygienists working in public health settings. It also recognizes state-wide initiatives that increase access to oral health care and identify and implement projects that serve the underserved populations in Pennsylvania.

This dynamic group is led by Judy Gelinas, RDH, BS, of St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children, Philadelphia, Alberta Landis, RDH, MEd, of Community Volunteers in Medicine, West Chester, and Beth Zimmerman, RDH, BS, of St. Joseph’s Ministries, Lancaster.

The Council organizes:

• “Sealant Saturday”, now in its sixth year and at over 24 sites around the state
• Nursing Home and Long Term Care Facilities Staff In-Service Training Program aimed to improve the oral health and hygiene for residents
• Website resources for hygienists interested in working in Public Dental Health.

A database that will facilitate resource and information exchange is now being developed. To join this private list of dental hygienists and healthcare professionals, please send your email address to PDHA Central Office: pdha@verizon.net. Include your name, degrees, address and phone number (optional). Please sign on to our exclusive resource list at your earliest convenience.

Visit our list of Resources for dental hygienists working in community health programs and our list of Pennsylvania Dental Health Clinics that will help you connect your time and talents with existing programs.

Have suggestions? Know of additional resources? Need information? Want to offer your help? Please contact us – we are eager to hear from you!