Meet Jamie Dooley, founder of National Network of Healthcare Hygienists

Jamie Freitag-Dooley (known as "Jamie Dooley") is an award-winning program developer, thought leader, and change agent. She worked 15 years full time as a clinical hygienist before securing her Bachelor of Integrative Studies in 2012, with a focus on healthcare & nonprofit management. She found she excelled at developing innovative programs and managing complex projects. After spending 6 years in public health launching a dental Medicaid clinic, developing a school-based sealant program that served 12 low-income schools, and piloting oral health integration in a large healthcare system, she started National Network of Healthcare Hygienists in 2018. Her goal is to introduce new programs and systems to the medical model which include registered dental hygienists as important members of interdisciplinary care. She is also an award-winning coach and program developer in the women's coaching and healing space.

Jamie is now the Director of Certificate Programs at NNHH, and has achieved significant milestones in the field of oral health integration. Here's a summary of her key accomplishments:

• Developed the first ANSI-accredited certificate program in dentistry:

Dooley spearheaded the creation of the Oral Systemic Educator Certificate Program, which received accreditation by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB). This program empowers registered dental hygienists (RDHs) with the knowledge and skills to collaborate effectively with other healthcare professionals and promote oral systemic health.

• Raised the bar for continuing education in dental hygiene:

By achieving ANAB accreditation, Dooley and NNHH have set a new standard for quality and excellence in dental hygiene education. This accomplishment has implications for the entire healthcare industry, as it helps address a workforce gap and ensures that RDHs are equipped to provide comprehensive patient care.

• Championed the role of RDHs in integrated healthcare:

Dooley's work emphasizes the critical role of RDHs as collaborative care team members in healthcare systems. Through NNHH and its programs, she advocates for the integration of oral health into overall healthcare, recognizing the vital link between oral and systemic health.

• Pioneered new career pathways for RDHs:

The Oral Systemic Educator Certificate Program and other initiatives by NNHH open up new career opportunities for RDHs, allowing them to specialize in areas like oral systemic health and oncology, and contribute their expertise in diverse healthcare settings.
 

In essence, Jamie Dooley's accomplishments have significantly advanced the field of dental hygiene and positioned RDHs as essential contributors to integrated healthcare. Her dedication to excellence in education and her vision for the future of oral health care have earned her recognition as a leader and innovator in the field.