HARRISBURG, Pa. — Dr. Stephens has been named Pennsylvania’s oral health champion as part of the 100 Million Mouths Campaign, a national initiative to improve oral health equity.
The campaign aims to train one oral health education leader in each state to integrate sustainable, equity-focused oral health curricula into health professions education. Over the next decade, it seeks to equip future primary care providers with the skills to improve oral health for 100 million people nationwide.
In her role, Dr. Stephens will collaborate with medical, physician assistant, nursing, and residency programs to expand oral health education and preventive care, particularly in rural and underserved areas where dental access is limited. Champions also work with state dental directors, public health departments, and local dental professionals to strengthen ties between primary care and oral health services.
“This recognition supports our ongoing efforts to extend oral health education and preventive care to some of the most austere areas of the Commonwealth,” Dr. Stephens said. “By preparing future health care providers to address oral health as part of whole-person care, we can make a meaningful impact on population health.”
Launched in 2020 through the HRSA-funded Center for Integration of Primary Care and Oral Health, the 100 Million Mouths Campaign provides champions with curricular resources, professional networks, and funding to support innovative education. Through this work, Dr. Stephens will advance Penn State College of Medicine’s commitment to health equity, interprofessional education, and improved health outcomes across Pennsylvania.
