Dr. Adam Barefoot DMD, MPH, has joined the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) as the agency’s Chief Dental Officer (CDO). The CDO provides leadership and coordination on oral health policy and initiatives and serves as the agency’s dental liaison to government agencies, universities, and stakeholder organizations. Rear Admiral Krista Pedley, Director of the Office of Special Health Initiatives, announced Dr. Barefoot’s appointment in a Dear Colleague letter on Monday.

Dr. Barefoot most recently served as the State Dental Director for the Georgia Department of Public Health where he led programs to improve oral health outcomes and reduce oral health disparities in the state. He has also served as a Dental Director at a Federally Qualified Health Center, a community-based health care provider that receives funds from HRSA to provide primary care services in underserved areas.

Dr. Barefoot earned his Masters in Public Health from the University of New England, a Doctorate of Dental Medicine from the University of Florida, and a Bachelors in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from the University of Georgia.

Impact on General Dentistry: AGD applauds HRSA’s appointment of Dr. Barefoot to fill the position of Chief Dental Officer. AGD works closely with the CDO to raise awareness of oral health issues, advance oral health programs at HRSA, and improve health outcomes for vulnerable populations.