In 2013, co-founders Dr. Lisa Rudolph and Paul Rudolph were invited to share their groundbreaking strategy for expanding dental care in underserved communities, inspired by their experience launching a school-based dental center. Their success was highlighted at various conferences, including one where they presented alongside U.S. Surgeon General Antonia Novello, M.D. Impressed by their holistic approach to population health, which prioritized accessibility and compassion, Dr. Novello encouraged the Rudolphs to establish an Accountable Care Organization focused solely on pediatric oral health. This pivotal moment sparked a vision to create a new model of care that would address systemic gaps in pediatric dentistry. Nearly a decade later, the Rudolphs met Dr. Petr Vaughan, and the opportunity arose to turn that vision into reality with the founding of APOHCO.
APOHCO’s mission is to improve pediatric oral health for every child in the Greater Cincinnati area, regardless of income. We aim to create a seamless, accessible, and affordable system of dental care for children from birth to age 18, ensuring each has a dental home by age one. Our approach goes beyond treating teeth; it’s about fostering trust, reducing anxiety, and building lifelong healthy habits. By integrating emotional support, family engagement, and culturally sensitive care, APOHCO creates dental experiences that empower children and their families. Our practices are designed to feel like safe, welcoming spaces where every child is seen and valued.
Recognizing the limitations of traditional public health programs, which often struggle with reach and resources, and the shortcomings of clinical consolidation, which can prioritize efficiency over individual needs, we are pioneering a new path. By merging the advantages of private practice—such as state-of-the-art technology and personalized care—with a strong commitment to underserved communities, we are building an inclusive network of pediatric dental practices. This integrated model is redefining pediatric dental care, ensuring that more children receive quality, comprehensive oral health services delivered with compassion and dignity. Since our founding, APOHCO has served thousands of families, reducing barriers to care and inspiring other providers to adopt a more holistic, community-focused approach.
Recognizing the limitations of traditional public health programs, which often struggle with reach and resources, and the shortcomings of clinical consolidation, which can prioritize efficiency over individual needs, we are pioneering a new path. By merging the advantages of private practice—such as state-of-the-art technology and personalized care—with a strong commitment to underserved communities, we are building an inclusive network of pediatric dental practices. This integrated model is redefining pediatric dental care, ensuring that more children receive quality, comprehensive oral health services delivered with compassion and dignity. Since our founding, APOHCO has served thousands of families, reducing barriers to care and inspiring other providers to adopt a more holistic, community-focused approach.
