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International College of Dentists — Section I - USA

March 2006

Dental Humanitarian Outreach Program

Several years ago the USA Section of the International College of Dentists Board of Regents determined that the Section should become more involved with programs that provided humanitarian support on a global basis. The project that was approved supports the training of dentists in Vietnam for a Masters Degree program in dental public health.

The program has been a great success. To date the objectives realized are: the extension of the concept of cultural-scientific thinking to their faculty, the initiation of a government public policy on fluoridation, the promotion of the use of fluoridated dentifrices, and the introduction of dental health as part of the curriculum in elementary schools. The project has now been expanded to Cambodia. Since 2002, USA Fellows have donated almost $100,000 to this program, representing over 1000 contributions. The program has so far assisted the training of 23 dentists in Vietnam and 15 in Cambodia. Dr. Martin Hobdell, the principal participant in the program, says that great enthusiasm has been demonstrated by the students who are most interested in understanding the concepts of dental public health as well as gaining new skills. The students are asked to master a great deal of information in a relatively short period of time. A similar program is likely to be initiated in Laos.

Dr. Hobdell is very knowledgeable of, and respected in, Africa. It is likely that the ICD USA Section will consider expanding this program into an African nation some time in the future. Visit our web site page for more information...

CEC in Halifax, Nova Scotia

Finally, do not forget about the Continuing Education Conference this summer in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Board meetings will be held on July 11 and 12, the continuing education program will be on July 13 and 14 and the optional Post Tour of the Cape Breton Islands and the surrounding area will be July 15 - 21. This is a tuition FREE event for ICD Fellows. Block out your calendar now and plan a visit this Canadian gateway to the Atlantic. In addition to the meeting, you will be impressed with the fine arts, cultural programs, museums and historic sights. If you have never attended one of these events, try it once and you will make it one of your yearly priority events.

Visit our website at www.usa-icd.org to learn more about your ICD!

More information on the Dental Humanitarian Outreach Program

Previous issues:
January 2006
February 2006

Find other members: USA section online membership roster

Contact the ICD office to change your address:

E-mail: maryjo@usa-icd.org
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