THE HEALTHY VIRGINIA BLUEPRINT

The Healthy Virginia Blueprint is a comprehensive report synthesizing current data and on-the-ground insights to highlight the urgent need for policy action on oral health access and health equity across the Commonwealth. 

As Virginia enters a critical election season, the Blueprint compiles essential health access data, identifies systemic gaps, and presents practical, nonpartisan solutions for strengthening access to care.  

“Virginia is at a pivotal crossroads for oral health. If we don’t protect the public health safety nets that ensure care for all—regardless of income or geography—we risk undoing hard-won progress that supports our most vulnerable communities,” said Victor McKenzie, Jr., Virginia Health Catalyst’s Chief Executive Officer. “The Healthy Virginia Blueprint gives state leaders a clear, actionable roadmap to safeguard what’s working and confront the gaps that remain.” 

Why It Matters: 

• 1 in 3 Virginians lack dental coverage 

• Nearly 3 in 4 of Virginia's localities are designated dental workforce shortage areas. 

• Only 5% of Medicaid pediatric providers apply fluoride varnish, despite existing coverage. 

• 27% of Virginians distrust their tap water, undermining the public health benefits of fluoridation. 

The Blueprint highlights what’s working—such as Virginia’s adult Medicaid dental benefit—and where urgent gaps remain. It offers four policy pillars with actionable recommendations on affordability, workforce, integration, and drinking water infrastructure.