The Zero Project continues to showcase how innovative solutions can help build a world with zero barriers for persons with disabilities. Every year, the initiative organises the Zero Project Awards to identify and promote practices, policies, and technologies that advance the implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). For 2026, the Zero Project has recognised 75 innovative solutions from 51 countries, highlighting impactful approaches in accessibility, information and communication technology (ICT), and crisis response.

Among the recognised innovations is Beit Issie Shapiro's Person-Centred Dental Care Model, which received a Zero Project Award 2026 for its pioneering approach to support persons with intellectual disabilities in accessing quality dental care. An estimated 45% of people with disabilities require treatment under general anaesthesia for routine dental care, often due to environmental, sensory, communication, or behavioural barriers rather than medical necessity. At Beit Issie Shapiro's Dental Clinic, this figure has been reduced to just 4% among the approximately1,700 patients with disabilities treated each year.

This achievement, led by Dr. Shalhav Malamud, Medical Director of Beit Issie Shapiro's Dental Clinic, reflects a person-centred approach that adapts services to the needs of everyone. Rather than expecting patients to adapt to the healthcare system, the model adapts the healthcare environment and experience to the patient. The model demonstrates how practical, scalable innovation can remove barriers to healthcare and improve outcomes for people with intellectual disabilities.

Following its recognition through the Zero Project Awards, the model has also been selected for the Zero Project Scaling Solutions Programme, providing opportunities to share this promising practice internationally and explore future collaborations that can support more inclusive healthcare systems worldwide.

To learn more about Beit Issie Shapiro's Person-Centred Dental Care Model, click here.