Strengthening Oral Health in South Africa: The Role of Public-Private Partnerships

Abstract

As South Africa celebrates 31 years of democracy, it is imperative to reflect on the progress made in oral health and identify areas where improvements are still needed. Oral health is a critical yet often overlooked component of public health, directly impacting overall well-being and quality of life. Despite strides in policy development and service delivery, significant disparities remain in access to oral healthcare, particularly in rural and historically marginalized communities. One of the most effective ways to bridge these gaps is through public-private partnerships (PPPs). Collaboration between the government, private sector, professional
organizations, and academic institutions has the potential to enhance service delivery, improve access, and drive innovation in oral healthcare.