FDI Calls for Oral Health Integration in EHRs

FDI Consensus Statement outlines strategies to unify dental and medical records for improved patient care.

• FDI releases Consensus Statement urging global integration of oral health into Electronic Health Records (EHRs).
• Eight core oral health indicators identified for routine sharing in digital health systems.
• Initiative supported by Henry Schein and Henry Schein One, emphasizing cross-sector collaboration.
• Challenges like standardization and data security addressed with strategic solutions.

Global Initiative to Bridge Dental and Medical Records

Geneva, Switzerland – The FDI World Dental Federation has issued a Consensus Statement advocating for the integration of oral health into broader Electronic Health Records (EHRs). Released on 24 March 2025, the statement underscores the importance of embedding oral health indicators into digital health infrastructures to enhance patient care and streamline health systems. This initiative aligns with global health policy goals, aiming to foster more holistic, person-centred healthcare delivery.

“Oral health is a crucial component of overall health, yet oral health indicators are often excluded from electronic health records,” noted FDI President Dr. Greg Chadwick. He emphasized that integrating these indicators could significantly improve diagnoses, treatment coordination, medication management, and patient outcomes while strengthening interprofessional collaboration.

Core Indicators for Unified Health Records

The Consensus Statement identifies eight key oral health indicators that should be routinely shared across digital platforms. These include periodontal disease, caries, oral cancer screenings, oral health status, medical devices and implants information, prescription data, allergy information, and radiographic imaging. By incorporating these metrics, health systems can better address the bidirectional relationship between oral health and systemic conditions such as diabetes.

This approach seeks to eliminate the historical isolation of oral health within healthcare systems. As highlighted in the report, poor oral health can exacerbate chronic conditions, making its inclusion in EHRs essential for comprehensive patient care. The integration promises more coordinated, timely, and personalized interventions, reducing errors and enhancing disease prevention.

Industry Support and Collaborative Efforts

The initiative is supported by Henry Schein and Henry Schein One, leaders in healthcare solutions and dental software. David Kochman, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer at Henry Schein, stated, “Henry Schein and Henry Schein One are pleased to be leading support of FDI’s important initiative to develop a baseline standard of patient health information sharing.”

Dr. Ryan Hungate, Chief Clinical and Strategy Officer at Henry Schein One, added, “Creating a common language for electronic dental and medical record integration enables clinicians to collaborate more effectively and efficiently in adopting systemic healthcare approaches, ultimately improving global patient care, and we are excited to continue pioneering as we utilize the Consensus Statement’s standards.”

Their involvement underscores the importance of cross-sector collaboration in advancing digital health infrastructure. By leveraging technology and expertise, stakeholders aim to create interoperable systems that benefit both practitioners and patients.

Addressing Implementation Challenges

While the Consensus Statement outlines a strategic framework for integration, it also acknowledges existing challenges. Issues such as standardization, interoperability, data security, cost barriers, and international coordination remain significant hurdles. To address these concerns, the report provides actionable solutions tailored to diverse healthcare contexts.

With global health policies increasingly emphasizing integrated care models, the Consensus Statement positions this initiative as a timely opportunity. Establishing a baseline standard for shared patient data fields is seen as critical to aligning dental and medical records within digital systems worldwide.

A Step Toward Holistic Healthcare

The FDI’s call for integrating oral health into EHRs marks a pivotal step toward bridging gaps in healthcare delivery. By fostering collaboration among stakeholders and addressing systemic challenges, this initiative aims to ensure that oral health is no longer treated in isolation. As the global health community moves toward more unified systems, the Consensus Statement serves as a foundational guide for achieving equitable, patient-centred care.

About FDI World Dental Federation

FDI envisions a world with optimal oral health and serves as the principal representative body for over 1 million dentists globally. Learn more at www.fdiworlddental.org.

About Henry Schein, Inc.

A solutions company for healthcare professionals, Henry Schein operates in 33 countries and territories. Visit www.henryschein.com for details.

About Henry Schein One

Empowering dental practices through integrated software solutions, Henry Schein One ensures efficiency and success. For more, visit www.henryscheinone.com.