Reviewing public policy for promoting population oral health in Victoria, Australia (2007-12).

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: Government policy and planning set the direction for community decisions related to resource allocation, infrastructure, services, programs, workforce and social environments. The aim ofthe present study was to examine the policy and planning context for oral health promotion in Victoria, Australia, over the period 2007-12. METHODS: Key Victorian policies and plans related to oral health promotion in place during the 2007-12 planning cycle were identified through online searching, and content analysis was performed. Inclusion of oral health (and oral health-related) promotion initiatives was assessed within the goals, objectives and strategies sections of each plan. RESULTS: Six of the 223 public health plans analysed (3%) included oral health 'goals' (including one plan representing nine agencies). Oral health was an 'objective' in 10 documents. Fifty-six plan objectives, and 70 plan strategies related to oral health or healthy eating for young children. Oral health was included in municipal plans (44%) more frequently than the other plans examined. CONCLUSION: There is a policy opportunity to address oral health at a community level, and to implement population approaches aligned with the Ottawa Charter that address the social determinants of health.