Strategies

Expand the role of allied dental professionals (e.g., hygienists, therapists, etc.) via changes to statute, dentist supervision requirements, etc.

Prohibit criminal history questions on job applications and postpone background checks

Expand broadband availability and adoption in unserved and underserved areas through initiatives that address infrastructure and cost barriers

Engage professional or lay health workers to provide education, referral and follow-up, case management, home visiting, etc. for those who experience barriers in accessing health care; also called promotoras(es) de salud or community health representatives

Provide confidential worksite-based counseling and referrals to employees to address personal and workplace challenges

Expand incentives such as scholarships and loans with service requirements and loan repayment or forgiveness programs for health care providers who practice in rural or other underserved areas

Offer programs to help individuals without a high school diploma or its equivalent achieve a high school equivalency credential

Provide pregnant or parenting teens with services based upon their needs (e.g., counseling, connections to health care or social services, academic support, etc.) in school or community settings

Increase access to LARCs through cost reduction, comprehensive birth control counseling, provider training, efforts to ensure availability at local clinics, etc.

Pair new nurses with more experienced nurses who act as a resource and provide support as the new nurse establishes her or himself professionally