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Description
The policy analysis examines the role of Michigan’s dental licensure requirements in shaping dental workforce capacity and oral healthcare access among Medicaid populations in rural Michigan counties. Guided by the Healthy People 2030 framework, the analysis used a mixed-methods approach to evaluate dental service utilization among Michigan Medicaid beneficiaries. Data were obtained from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Oral Health Dashboard. Dental workforce capacity and trends were evaluated using state and national workforce data obtained from the American Dental Association Health Policy Institute and the Health Resources and Services Administration.
Key stakeholder interviews were conducted with state and national stakeholders with expertise in dental workforce capacity, oral healthcare access, and Michigan’s dental licensure policy. Participants included a representative from an oral health advocacy organization focused on policies affecting dental professionals and patient access to oral healthcare, a leader from a large group dental clinic serving rural communities, a dental practice transition broker, a Michigan government agency representative, and a national researcher specializing in dental workforce trends. The analysis explores policy considerations related to interstate licensure portability and Michigan’s participation in the Dental and Dental Hygienist Licensure COMPACT, as well as strategies to strengthen the dental workforce and improve access to oral healthcare in rural underserved communities.
Faculty Advisor(s)
Sabrina Matoff-Stepp, Ph.D.
Publication Date
2025
Preferred Citation
Manautou, Maria A. DDS, MPH, "Addressing the Policy Gap: Dental Shortages in Rural Michigan and Licensure Requirements" (2025). Integrative Learning Experience (ILE) Theses. 17.
https://dune.une.edu/ph_ile/17