PAHO/WHO Collaborating Centre Spotlight Series
Reference Number: USA-429
Official Title: PAHO/WHO CC for Quality-Improvement, Evidence-Based Dentistry
Institution: Department of Epidemiology and Health Promotion, College of Dentistry, New York University
Category 2 (SP 14-19)
Outcome 2 (SP 20-25)
Dr. Enrique Vega, Unit Chief, Healthy Life Course, is the PAHO staff member who acts as the Region’s focal point to coordinate the collaboration between the institution and the Organization.
The main activities for this Centre include: (1) assessing oral health programs; (2) responding to oral health emergencies; and (3) sponsoring meetings.
The Centre conducts assessments of oral health programs in St. Lucia, St. Kitts and Nevis, Dominica, and Montserrat. This Centre has been well-positioned to assess oral health programs in the Caribbean Region due to its expertise regarding oral health issues, program methodologies and country context, having supported these programs in the past. In addition, the Centre provides assistance to other Member States in the Region with requests regarding oral health assessments.
The Centre carries out training in epidemiological survey methodology, equipping teams with basic methods to conduct oral health surveys and also responds to oral health emergencies. For example, in 2018, PAHO requested the Centre’s technical assistance with fluorosis cases in Paraguay. Paraguay officials provided the Centre with data and afterwards, the Centre provided recommendations for local authorities on how to address the situation.
Lastly, the Centre hosted an SDG side event on Oral Health for oral health professionals during the UN General Assembly High-Level Meeting in September 2018.
Webnotes such as these serve to inform how Collaborating Centres are contributing to the Organization’s priorities and mandates.
* Dr. Enrique Vega has taken over for Dr. Carolina Hommes as the Responsible Officer for this Centre.