Ten dental licensing boards have now verified their licensing applications do not include intrusive mental health questions, as part of the Wellbeing First Champion Challenge, an increase from five in 2025. The initiative seeks to remove application questions that may discourage healthcare professionals from seeking care and also calls for continued communication about mental healthcare after application revisions are complete. The movement honors Lorna Breen, MD, an emergency physician who died by suicide in 2020, and reflects the Dr. Lorna Breen Foundation’s work to advance changes that protect the mental health and well-being of healthcare workers.
OMS well-being continues to be a top priority for AAOMS. Through the AAOMS Cares program, developed with the Parkdale Center for Professionals, AAOMS members have confidential access to assessments and treatment resources for substance use concerns. States are encouraged to continue assessing forms and processes in favor of adopting destigmatizing language. Visit the Dr. Lorna Breen Foundation for more information on promoting these efforts.
