The New York Chapter of the Hispanic Dental Association (NYHDA) is an incorporated nonprofit under the laws of the state of New York, and has been working to promote the oral health of the Hispanic community, and other underserved communities, across the state and beyond our borders. These efforts made over the years have been a joint effort between the leadership team of the NYHDA, our interprofessional network of volunteers and the community stakeholders.
The NYHDA chapter has been growing continuously since its inception in 2010. Membership has been increasing via social events, sponsoring enriching continuing education courses, dental outreach and activities throughout the city and abroad. There has been increased visibility via social media which has led to continuous increases in corporate sponsorship. The chapter has also Initiated and participated in dental humanitarian service projects to treat the underserved in the Dominican Republic.
Most of the local outreach activities have taken place in Hispanic neighborhoods in the five boroughs of New York City, areas in particular need of dental treatment and education. The chapter has presented in public schools and daycare centers to parents and caregivers. NYHDA attends the GNYDM annually with its booth, and in hosting the National HDA. The chapter also attends and participates in the National Hispanic Medical Association. The chapter also honored Dr. Chad Gehani, new ADA president 2019-2020, at the CONAOD Dental Meeting in the Dominican Republic in October, 2019. Finally, several of our board members are actively involved in the legislative aspect of the profession as delegates to a number of committees statewide.
The Hispanic Dental Association Mission states “We are the leaders for Hispanics Oral Health providing Service,Education,Advocacy and Leadership”. The Hispanic Dental Association’s vision states “The elimination of Oral Health disparities in Hispanic communities.”