G-1810-14527

This investment provides support to RIZE Massachusetts (RIZE) integrate oral health into its programming and grant-making strategy in order to end the opioid epidemic in Massachusetts and reduce its impact on people, communities, and the economy. RIZE is an independent nonprofit foundation formed in 2017 through a co-funding relationship with Partners HealthCare, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, the GE Foundation and 1199SEIU. Using a collaborative, multi-sector approach, RIZE provides grants to organizations focused on prevention, innovative care approaches to address opioid use disorders and recovery methods. In prior years, this work has focused on behavioral and physical health. Through this grant, oral health will be strategically integrated into the approach to address opioid use disorders. In partnership with a variety of thought leaders, including health care providers, payers, community organizations, coalitions, among others, RIZE has developed a three-pronged approach to its work: Care, Knowledge, and Human impact. In 2019, RIZE will engage the leadership of DentaQuest to gain insight and expertise on strategic and meaningful ways to include issues of oral health in its work. Initial thoughts include exploring best practices and guidelines related to provider prescribing practices and follow-up education, updating clinical practices to include ways to screen patients for potential substance use disorders, and using techniques to motivate at-risk individuals to seek appropriate treatment. Engaging RIZE through a grant and leveraging the expertise of DentaQuest leadership will ensure that oral health is addressed as a part of the widespread opioid epidemic in Massachusetts and that resources are developed and disseminated to address this issue beyond state lines.