As we celebrate Shanu Saksena’s work anniversary at Haleon, we recognize the profound impact her leadership has made in transforming healthcare access. Haleon’s commitment to “going beyond the call of duty to create opportunities for communities to enjoy better everyday health” resonates deeply with initiatives like Mobile Dental Van Camps, carving new paths to essential oral healthcare for those who need it most.
Smile Express: A Game Changer for Oral Health
Smile Express is India’s first mobile and portable dental care project, founded by Dr. Mukesh Panwar, who brings years of experience from his work with the World Health Organization as an External Monitor. In the field, Dr. Panwar saw firsthand the critical gap in dental services, especially in India’s rural Primary Health Centers, where oral healthcare is often nonexistent. Smile Express was born out of this need and has been making essential dental services accessible to remote communities, especially in Jaipur and Rajasthan.
Much like how Smile Train has transformed cleft care globally by providing specialized treatment and empowering local medical professionals to deliver life-changing services, Smile Express holds the potential to revolutionize dental care in India. Smile Train’s model of bringing specialized, high-quality care directly to communities that need it most is a powerful example of how targeted healthcare can change lives at scale. Smile Express mirrors this mission by bringing skilled dental services to people in need, ensuring accessibility where there was once a void.
Dr. Panwar and the Oral Health Promotion Foundation (OHPF) are committed to an Oral Health Revolution that includes not only Smile Express but also other initiatives like Dentocracy and Oral Pulse. These community-centered solutions promote sustainable, quality dental healthcare where it is needed most, laying the groundwork for transformative change across India.
A Partnership That Matters
Support from Haleon is vital for the continued success of Smile Express and similar initiatives. As Haleon considers potential partnerships, it is essential to evaluate the sustainability of implementing organizations. Smile Express not only delivers immediate impact but also possesses the infrastructure and vision for long-term success. By choosing partners dedicated to sustainable healthcare solutions, Haleon can ensure that its investments yield lasting benefits.
Why Haleon Must Support This Initiative
The support of a visionary company like Haleon is necessary for the success of the Smile Express initiative. By aligning its mission with Smile Express, Haleon can amplify its impact on community health. Investing in Smile Express not only promotes dental health but also demonstrates a commitment to social responsibility, creating a legacy of positive change.
Together, We Can Inspire Change
With Haleon and Smile Express united, we can embark on a shared journey to spark an oral health revolution across India. The Oral Health Promotion Foundation, made up of specialists, public health experts, and development sector leaders, stands ready to partner with Haleon in this mission. Together, we can illuminate the path for healthier communities, echoing the belief that every smile counts.
By joining forces, we can not only bring joy to faces that need it the most but also foster a healthier, brighter future for all. Let us work together to ensure that the vision of an oral health revolution becomes a reality, empowering countless individuals along the way.