AGpO MEMBERSHIP NEWS Participate in Orthodontic Research Study; Your Input Needed For many years, general and pedi-atric dentists have contributed to providing orthodontic services to the pediatric population. Members of the Academy of Gp Orthodontics (AGpO) and the American Orthodontic Society (AOS) continuously increase their knowledge in orthodontics through further education to care for patients in their communities, in turn increas-ing access to services for children. By promoting higher education and train-ing standards, AGpO and AOS ensure that providers are well-equipped to provide the best possible treatment. Nicklaus Children’s Hospital Department of Pediatric Dentistry is leading an exciting research project that intends to showcase the contribu-tions of the members of AGpO and AOS. The research project “Access to Orthodontic Services for the Pediatric and Medicaid Patient Population: A Survey of Non-Orthodontists” primary goal is to document the current status of the provision of services by members of both organiza-tions. Through a standardized ques-tionnaire, the study will gather data on training, demographics and patient-mix, access to orthodontic services, scope of practice and barriers to the provision of care for the pedi-atric and Medicaid patient population. Members of AGpO and AOS will have access to the survey via a link in upcoming e-mails. Data will be collected between August 15 and October 15, 2024. Participation in the study is voluntary and partici-www.academygportho.com Academy of Gp Orthodontics 2023-24 Officers President Brian Machart, DDS President Elect Kauser Bari, DDS Vice President Amanda Larsh, DMD Secretary -Treasurer Cynthia Bordelon Immediate Past-President Humberto Nunez-Gil, DMD Board of Directors Ron Austin, DDS Scott Earp, DDS Drew Ellenwood, DDS Majid Fehresti, DDS Minh-Khoi Nguyen, DDS Jennifer Rand, DDS Raphael Santore, DDS Advisory Board Robert Allen, DDS Greg Cannizzo DDS Fred Der, DDS Nicholas Gardner, DDS Kyle McCrea, DDS Sherman Menser, DDS Milton Ntragatakis, DDS Keith Wilkerson, DDS Charles Young, DDS pant confidentiality will be ensured. There are no direct benefits, risks or compensation for participating in the study. However, this project has the potential to inform policymakers, healthcare providers and the public about the critical need for equitable access to orthodontic care for all chil-dren, regardless of socioeconomic status or insurance type. By identify-ing effective strategies and advocat-ing for systemic changes, this research can contribute to narrowing the access gap and improving orthodontic health outcomes for underserved populations. The authors intend to disseminate their findings by presenting at national meetings and publishing a manuscript in a professional peer-reviewed journal. As a member of AGpO and AOS, your dedication to children's oral health and unique insights make your participation in this study invaluable. Executive Director Adam Griswold, CAE Associate Director Jennifer Beasley Executive Director Emeritus Cynthia Bordelon 30 Summer 2024 JAOS
Journal of the American Orthodontic Society Summer 2024: Page 30
