General News
4 February, 2025
Health service focuses on oral health
West Wimmera Health Service has its eyes set on improving oral health across the Wimmera Mallee.
Following a successful partnership with La Trobe University to complete an oral health survey, the health promotion team is now focusing on the next phase: engaging the community to drive meaningful change.
The health promotion team is eager to develop an advisory group of community members to assist in gaining grant funding to implement oral health projects to benefit regional communities.
“We’re thrilled to share that 272 individuals contributed their perspectives as part of the oral health survey, providing valuable insights that are helping us advocate for improved oral health outcomes across our communities,” West Wimmera Health Service health promotion manager Dorothy McLaren said.
“While there’s still a long way to go, this marks the start of an exciting journey toward positive change.”
To build on the survey's findings, the health promotion team is calling on community members to join an advisory group that will play a pivotal role in helping to secure grant funding and shape innovative oral health projects.
The team has already outlined two key projects, the first focusing on an oral cancer screening model designed specifically for regional areas and communities with limited access to dental services.
The second is a community-led, codesigned oral health promotion initiative to directly address the concerns and priorities of the regional residents.
“We're excited to collaborate with community members to ensure these projects are impactful and relevant to our communities,” Ms McLaren said.
As part of the oral health survey, participants had the option of being part of a prize draw for a chance to win one of three $100 grocery vouchers.
The lucky winners were Cassandra Batson from Goroke, Janeth Rebarbas from Nhill and Billie Barber from Nhill.
The completion of the survey coincided with the commencement of activity by the Smile Squad, a school dental van run by the Victorian Department of Health.
“This initiative is a vital step in bringing accessible dental services to our communities,” Ms McLaren said.
To learn more about the advisory group, contact the health promotion team on 5391 4313.
