STATEMENT BY SPECIAL OLYMPICS NEW YORK PRESIDENT & CEO STACEY HENGSTERMAN ON REQUIRING DENTAL SCHOOLS TO INCLUDE TREATMENT OF PEOPLE WITH ID

“People with intellectual disabilities (ID) have, until now, been overlooked in the development and training of medical professionals. As a result, they are one of the most underserved populations in terms of quality healthcare.

“The recent decision by the Commission on Dental Accreditation to require that future generations of dental professionals are trained in treating patients with ID underscores an urgent need for change, and sets the wheels in motion for accrediting agencies across the healthcare disciplines to follow suit.

“On behalf of Special Olympics athletes and their families across New York, thank you to the National Council on Disability for its years of advocacy on this issue and to the Commission on Dental Accreditation for taking this critical and commendable action to ensure quality dental care for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We look forward to working with dental schools in New York as they begin providing this long overdue educational component.”

Hengsterman has made achieving healthcare equity for people with ID a priority since taking over as president & CEO of Special Olympics New York last year.

Additional details on the announcement are available from the National Council on Disability.

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About Special Olympics New York

Special Olympics New York is the largest state chapter in the country, serving more than 67,000 athletes across New York with year-round sports training, athletic competition, and health screenings. The organization also partners with more than 170 schools statewide to offer Unified Sports. All Special Olympics New York programs are offered at no cost to athletes, their families or caregivers. For additional information about Special Olympics New York, to learn more about getting involved, or to make a donation, visit www.specialolympicsNY.org.

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