Providing Cleft Care Globally: Equity, Outcomes, and Evolving Models of Care Delivery

Cleft lip and palate is a common congenital condition, with most cases occurring in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where access to comprehensive care is limited. While high-income countries offer standardized, multidisciplinary care, LMICs face barriers such as workforce shortages, inadequate infrastructure, and funding gaps. Traditional short-term mission models are giving way to sustainable, partnership-based approaches that emphasize local capacity-building and interdisciplinary education. Addressing stigma, improving awareness, and fostering team-based care are essential for better outcomes. Achieving equity in cleft care globally requires integrating services into local health systems, securing long-term support, and advancing policy and training frameworks.