I’m making a plea: We must prioritize oral health for New Jersey’s children
Michal Herman Special to the USA TODAY Network Regarding “NJ kids’ teeth are rotting more than the national average. Here’s why,” NorthJersey.com, Jan. 23: As a public health dentist in New Jersey for 25 years, I regularly treat children in dire need of oral health care. Many have never been to the dentist before coming to KinderSmile…Read More…
Our Commitment to Health Equity Remains Central
Like many of you, I read with alarm that the CDC removed terminology, data and resources related to equity from its website, part of the broader effort to remove diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in federal government. The Quality Institute began 27 years ago during a renaissance of nonpartisan, nonpolitical thought leadership focused on…Read More…
Take Five Interview with Joshua Ardise, MD, MPH
Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey is a member of the Quality Institute’s Leadership Council. What are the main interventions you are taking to address the top health issues you see across Horizon’s adult membership? In 2025, Horizon is focused on affordability. We understand how challenging managing rising health care costs can…Read More…
NJ kids’ teeth are rotting more than the national average. Here’s why
Scott Fallon NorthJersey.com The email sent to Dr. Michal Herman in early December was like many others she has received in her 25-year dental career. It was a from a teacher at a Newark school. She had a 6-year-old who was homeless — and his teeth were rotting. When he arrived at KinderSmile Foundation’s office…Read More…
New Quality Institute Report Illustrates the Different Perinatal Experiences People Face Based on Insurance Status
The Quality Institute’s new report, Navigating the Obstacles: The Complex Journey of Perinatal Care in New Jersey, lays out the different coverage rules for perinatal care in New Jersey based on a person’s insurance status. The report also identifies policy changes that would close existing gaps. You can read the full report and recommendations…Read More…
Meet New Staff Members
We are thrilled to announce and introduce our new staff members. Maxilia Desir has joined our policy team and brings years of experience in health policy. Annelise Slater, MPH, has joined our quality improvement team, where she brings valuable experience in public health and quality improvement. Together, Maxilia and Annelise will enhance the Quality…Read More…
Where are the dentists for kids in need?
Lilo H. Stainton, Health Care Writer | January 8, 2025 | Health Care Medicaid pays for care, but advocates found few dentists able to take younger patients Credit: (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)In this Friday, Jan. 22, 2016 photo, Dr. Juan Fernando Yepes, a dentist at the Riley Hospital for Children Department of Pediatric Dentistry, checks the teeth of…Read More…
Take Five Interview with Shari Gold
Bergen New Bridge Medical Center is a member of the Quality Institute’s Provider Council and recently achieved a Certification in Health Care Equity from The Joint Commission. What has achieving the Joint Commission’s Health Care Equity Certification meant for the medical center and for your community? Going through this process strengthened our structure around diversity,…Read More…