PhD candidate, Sudheer Balla, is passionate about improving the oral health of children in refugee communities.
“There is a significant disparity in access to oral healthcare among refugee children, particularly those from the Karen community in Victoria.”
“Studies indicate that untreated dental decay is two to three times higher in refugee children compared to their non-refugee peers. This is often due to barriers such as complex healthcare policies, financial constraints, limited health literacy and difficulties navigating the system,” he explains.
“My research explores some of these barriers from the perspective of Karen refugee parents.”
Sudheer’s research has identified key challenges including cultural perceptions, long waiting lists in the public system, and confusion regarding eligibility for financial support.
“For example, some of the parents I interviewed received letters stating that their child 'may be'' eligible for the Child Dental Benefits Schedule. This ambiguity leads to uncertainty and hesitation in seeking care.”
“On the other hand, my research uncovered some factors that help with dental health which include strong community support networks, school-based dental programs and free dental care initiatives.”
Sudheer hopes his research helps inform culturally appropriate interventions and policy changes.
“In the long term, this research contributes to the broader goal of reducing health inequities by informing policy adjustments, supporting community-based interventions and encouraging dental practitioners to adopt more inclusive practices.”
“By addressing the barriers identified in my study, stakeholders can work toward a more equitable and accessible dental care system for refugee children and other vulnerable populations.”
