Securing community buy-in and support can take many forms, including creating a coalition of local SBHC service professionals; building relationships with key stakeholders who are knowledgeable about the program's services; educating key community champions; and/or developing and disseminating effective messages, success stories, and meaningful data.
Advocacy also plays a crucial role in securing community buy-in and support. Sharing evidence of improved oral health and overall health of enrolled students demonstrates the success and effectiveness of the SBHC. Offering open houses and inviting key stakeholders to tour the SBHC to see how oral health is integrated into primary care services can also enlighten those who are unfamiliar with the SBHC's services. These efforts may result in the development of strong oral health champions and may lead to additional in-kind and financial support.
