Winner of the 2021
EMMA WARREN Smile Squad Communications Lead
Smile Squad recognised as school dental innovator Smile Squad means that every Victorian child can have a healthy smile
Parents and students all over Victoria are quickly
The award, sponsored by Queensland Health,
becoming familiar with the bright orange fleet,
recognises projects in their start-up or early phases
smart uniforms, friendly staff, and great customer
of development that are significantly innovative
care the Smile Squad school dental program delivers.
and was presented at the 2021 Value-Based Health
Smile Squad is the Victorian Government’s free school dental program. Smile Squad provides free
Care Conference. DHSV Chief Operating Officer Mark Sullivan
annual oral health examinations and free follow
was delighted by the win and highlighted the
up treatment for all Victorian public primary,
importance of delivering innovative, accessible,
secondary and specialist school students.
high-value dental care to all Victorian public school
In May 2021, extensive planning, collaboration, and testing were rewarded as Dental Health
students. ‘School dental services have existed for a number
Services Victoria (DHSV) was awarded the
of years and we’re excited that Smile Squad has
Innovation Award at the inaugural Value-Based
seen the return of dental vans to our schools,’
Health Care Awards.
said Mr Sullivan.
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The Health Advocate • AUGUST 2021
