The government's response to AIDS

Article Abstract:

The United States government's dental-related program against AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome) is extensive, but it is possible that coordination is a weak point. Overlap among projects exists in part because of the intensive 'crash response' to the AIDS crisis. A review of dental AIDS-related programs sponsored by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is provided. One HHS agency, the National Institute of Dental Research (NIDR), directs research and data collection efforts for HHS programs, while the VA has amassed the largest data base on oral manifestations of AIDS. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Health Resources and Services Administration distribute guidelines for infection control to the American Association of Dental Schools. Some HHS agencies discussed are: the Bureau of Health Care Delivery and Assistance, the Bureau of Health Professions, and the Bureau of Maternal and Child Health and Resources Development. In addition, the programs of CDC, including the Dental Disease Prevention Activity, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Indian Health Service, NIDR, and VA programs, are also reviewed. Each agency (except research and regulatory agencies) has a target population to which it provides services, including children with AIDS, patients needing long- or intermediate-term care, health care professionals who need special training to work with AIDS patients, and Native Americans and Alaskan natives. The FDA establishes standards for gloves worn in dental practice and reviews decontamination procedures. The VA oversees AIDS programs that reach a large number of patients, with a cumulative total of 6,500 patients by the middle of 1989. The overall goal of the Government's approach is to provide extensive, multifaceted activity. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Health aspects, Care and treatment, Social policy, AIDS patients, AIDS (Disease), Administrative agencies, Government agencies, United States. Department of Veterans Affairs, United States. Department of Health and Human Services

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Dentistry and government: evolution of a relationship

Article Abstract:

The growing presence of the American Dental Association (ADA) in Washington, DC and its continued efforts to organize local dentists may help to influence legislation affecting dental practices in the changing healthcare marketplace. An ADA representative highlighted some recent achievements by the organization and outlined current functions of the ADA in Washington, DC. The ADA has successfully negotiated with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration to have dental practices inspected by telephone or fax rather than by in-person inspections. Negotiations with the Veteran's Administration (VA) have prevented a 10% proposed cut in the number of available dental residencies with VA hospitals. Increased communication and cooperation between the ADA and other healthcare groups may be important in promoting the ADA's goals to elected officials. Negotiations are in progress with the Federal Trade Commission to ensure that dentists can compete with managed care providers.

Political activity, Cover Story, Political aspects, American Dental Association, Dental policy

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NIDCR, UNC launch seven-year study on TMJ disorders

Article Abstract:

The first international clinical study, which involves searching for genes which are the origins of debilitating jaw, neck pain and other temporary mandibular joint and muscle disorders, is presented. The study is being done by National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research and University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

United States, Science & research, Research, Analysis, Genetic aspects, Temporomandibular joint disorders, Neck pain, Genetic research

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