Access to quality healthcare is a right for everyone, including individuals with special needs. However, people with disabilities often face greater challenges due to their limitations.
The Department of Dental Conservation at the Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKG UGM), visited the Disability Services Center at UIN Sunan Kalijaga in Yogyakarta on 13 August 2024. This visit aimed to collaborate on developing more inclusive dental healthcare services for individuals with special needs.
The event was led by the Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, and Cooperation at FKG UGM, Drg. Trianna Wahyu Utami, MDSc., Ph.D., and was welcomed by Dr. Astri Hanjarwati, S.Sos., M.A., Chair of the Disability Services Center at UIN Sunan Kalijaga. Both parties agreed that dental healthcare services for individuals with disabilities require special attention.
"We fully support this collaboration because inclusive dental healthcare is an urgent need for everyone, especially for individuals with disabilities," said Dr. Hanjarwati in her opening remarks.
The discussions during this meeting covered the dental health challenges frequently faced by individuals with disabilities, such as difficulties in maintaining oral hygiene and limited access to healthcare services. The two institutions also discussed the development of specialized training programs to meet the dental conservation needs of individuals with special needs.
"This collaboration is an important first step toward realizing more inclusive dental healthcare services. We hope this program can enhance community welfare," added Drg. Trianna Wahyu Utami.
Through this activity, FKG UGM also supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being), Goal 4 (Quality Education), and Goal 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). It is hoped that the collaboration between FKG UGM and UIN Sunan Kalijaga will make a tangible impact, both through improved access to dental healthcare services and the development of better-trained professionals to serve individuals with disabilities.
Authors: drg Henytaria Fajrianti, Sp.KG and Diva Luthfiana
