Han Cheong-mi: A Dental Hygienist’s Dedication to Volunteerism
A Life dedicated to Service: The story of Han Cheong-mi
For Han Cheong-mi, a dedicated dental hygienist at Gyeonggi-do Medical Center Suwon Hospital, volunteering isn’t just an activity; it’s a way of life. Her commitment to oral care extends far beyond the walls of the hospital, reaching underserved communities both locally and internationally.
I don’t want to stop volunteering.
this sentiment encapsulates her unwavering dedication to providing essential dental services to those in need.
Local Impact: Improving Oral Health in Gyeonggi-do
Han’s primary focus is on preventative dental care, including tartar removal and fluoride request. Her dedication is evident in her extensive work with the Smile Foundation, a dental disability institution. She has provided over 847 medical services to disabled and underprivileged individuals. Since 2019, she has been instrumental in identifying and assisting underprivileged patients in the Gyeonggi area, providing them with crucial access to medical expenses.
The Gyeonggi-do Medical Center Suwon Hospital’s dental hospital actively engages in oral care and management volunteer activities,primarily centered around the welfare center of Gyeonggi-do,further emphasizing the commitment to local community health.
Global Outreach: Extending Care Beyond Borders
inspired by the volunteer doctors who served her community during her childhood near Daedunsan, Jeonbuk, where medical facilities were scarce, Han extends her services internationally. She actively participates in overseas volunteer programs, bringing essential oral healthcare to underserved populations.
As 2006, starting with Paju Hospital, Gyeonggi-do Medical Center’s mission to Laos, Han has participated in volunteer activities in Kazakhstan (2011), Sakhalin (2013), and Palau (2017). Thes efforts have positively impacted the lives of over 3,200 individuals through overseas volunteer activities.
The Ripple Effect of Compassion
Han Cheong-mi’s story exemplifies the profound impact that one individual can have on the lives of many. Her dedication to volunteerism serves as an inspiration, highlighting the importance of accessible oral healthcare and the power of compassion in creating healthier communities, both at home and abroad.
Retiring Dentist Continues Service, Focusing on geriatric Oral Health
A Tokyo dentist, despite reaching retirement age, is committed to continuing volunteer work, particularly focusing on improving oral health among the elderly.
A Lifetime of Service: Retirement Doesn’t Mean Stopping
Dr. Han, a dentist from Tokyo, is proving that retirement doesn’t have to mean slowing down. Having dedicated years to various volunteer activities, including oral health education and community service, Dr. Han plans to extend his commitment even after retirement. His focus is now shifting towards geriatric oral care, an area often overlooked but crucial for overall well-being.
Expanding Oral Health Initiatives
Dr. han’s past volunteer work includes extensive involvement in oral health initiatives. He has participated in disease prevention training during oral health awareness days and disability awareness days. Furthermore, he has been actively involved in a dental project for fourth-grade students in Tokyo elementary schools, promoting early oral hygiene education. His service extends beyond dental care, encompassing activities like baking and blood donation, showcasing a broad commitment to community welfare.
Focusing on Geriatric Oral care
with retirement approaching,Dr. Han is eager to dedicate his time to addressing the specific oral health needs of the elderly. I plan to continue my service even if I retire,
Dr. Han stated. There is still a healthy body and a weekend on Sunday and Sunday. In the future, I want to visit the welfare center in the province and have an oral muscle movement or massage education for the elderly.
This initiative aims to improve oral muscle function and provide essential oral care education to senior citizens, contributing to their overall health and quality of life.
The Importance of Geriatric Dental Care
Geriatric dental care is a growing area of concern as the global population ages.Elderly individuals often face unique oral health challenges, including dry mouth (xerostomia), tooth decay, gum disease (periodontitis), and tooth loss. These issues can be exacerbated by underlying health conditions and medications. Dr. Han’s initiative to provide oral muscle movement and massage education is a proactive approach to combatting these challenges and promoting better oral health among the elderly.