HISTORY

The Illinois Oral Health Coalition (IOHC) formerly known as IFLOSS, was formed in 1998 with the main goals of (1) serving as an oral health advocate with a public health voice and (2) addressing oral health challenges in the state. Some of the main accomplishments include conducting the the State Oral Health Plans every five years, hosting oral health conferences and regional meetings, and partnering with legislatures to create the Healthy Smiles fund, which allows funds to be designated to the Illinois Department of Public Health.



The Covid-19 pandemic and retirement of key volunteers essentially ended the coalition’s viability in 2020. A new board of directors has been established to rejuvenate IOHC. This means advocating for and promoting optimal oral health at a community level, not just for individuals. This involves using the coalition’s influence to address oral health disparities, improve access to care through evidence-based practices, and raise awareness about oral health issues.