53883 (2024). Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall to the Minister of Health

53883 (2024). Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall to the Minister of Health: What strategies, if any, have been progressed in the quarter January to March 2024 to promote preventive dental care and oral hygiene education in schools and communities?

Hon Dr Shane Reti: I am advised that during the January to March 2024 quarter, the ongoing oral health promotion initiative continued, as well as Lift the Lip checks delivered through Well Child Tamariki Ora. I am further advised that delivery of the Community Ora Health Service and work by oral health promoters around preventative oral health care and education in schools was ongoing during the quarter. I am also advised that Adolescent Coordinators are employed by Health NZ to enhance the uptake and ongoing participation rates of adolescents in oral health care services. In addition, I refer the member to Written Parliamentary Question 19831 (2024).