Efforts to promote inclusive healthcare services were once again emphasized through an event entitled “Equal Smiles for Everyone”, a collaboration between Posbindu Sejiwa and the Faculty of Dentistry UGM. The event was held at the Kraton Community Health Center Hall in commemoration of National Oral and Dental Health Day 2026 (13/04/2026).
The program specifically targeted schizophrenia survivors and individuals with psychosocial disabilities under the guidance of the community health center, including their caregivers. Its primary focus was to improve awareness and understanding regarding the importance of maintaining oral and dental health, particularly among vulnerable groups who are often overlooked in access to optimal healthcare services.
Preventive Education for Vulnerable Groups
During the event, participants received education on oral hygiene as part of promotive and preventive healthcare efforts. The materials were delivered interactively to ensure accessibility and understanding, while also providing opportunities for participants to ask questions regarding issues they did not yet understand.
The program emerged from concerns about the limited attention given to dental health among individuals with psychosocial disabilities. In fact, oral health plays a crucial role in overall quality of life, including social and psychological well-being.
Through this activity, participants gained not only new knowledge, but also a more inclusive and empathetic learning experience.
Encouraging Sustainable Collaboration
Head of the Kraton Community Health Center, dr. Deo Hadi Nanda, emphasized in his remarks the importance of sustaining similar programs in the future. He expressed hope that the initiative would not remain a one-time service, but rather become the beginning of a more systematic and long-term collaboration.
“Through this activity, we hope to establish sustainable education, family assistance, and increased capacity among healthcare workers in providing inclusive and friendly services for vulnerable groups,” he stated.
Furthermore, dr. Deo highlighted the importance of partnerships between healthcare facilities, educational institutions, communities, and various stakeholders in creating a more equitable and inclusive healthcare system.
Commitment to Inclusive Healthcare Services
The “Equal Smiles for Everyone” program served as a reminder that healthcare is not solely about treatment, but also about equitable access and respect for the dignity of every individual, including those living with psychosocial disabilities.
With the involvement of FKG UGM academics, healthcare professionals, and community groups, the program is expected to become a collaborative model that can be replicated in other regions. The initiative reaffirmed one important message: a healthy smile is everyone’s right.
(News Contributor: drg. Kadek Gede Putra Wibawa, MDSc | Editorial Team: Andri Wicaksono, S.Sos., M.I.Kom)
