Does a facilitated pathway improve access to dental services for homeless and disadvantaged adults?. (December 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Stormon, N.; Pradhan, A.; McAuliffe, A.; Ford, P.J.
• Is Part Of: Evaluation and program planning. Volume 71(2018)
• Page Start: 46
• Page End: 50
• Publication Date: 2018-12
• Subjects: Homeless -- Disadvantaged -- Intervention -- Oral health -- Public dental facility -- Access; Health planning -- Periodicals; Medical care -- Evaluation -- Periodicals; 362.1068
• DOI: 10.1016/j.evalprogplan.2018.08.002
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0149-7189

Abstract

Highlights: A system integration model for oral health care for clients of homeless services in Brisbane. By providing a facilitated pathway to accessing dental appointments, attendance to the subsequent appointments at the dental clinic was high. Distance and transport did not appear to influence attendance to the dental facility but fear may have been a barrier experienced. Abstract: Access to dental care is poorer for people experiencing homelessness and disadvantage due to barriers such as lengthy waiting lists, lack of transport, lack of information and fear of authorities and treatment. This study aimed to evaluate a system integration model for oral health care for clients of homeless services in Brisbane, Australia. This model aimed to provide a facilitated access pathway between homeless community organisations and a public dental service to improve access to dental care. Participants were adult (≥18 years) clients Brisbane homeless community organisations. Those who participated in the intervention evaluation completed a questionnaire, had their oral health screened and followed up for feedback at their dental appointment. Seventy-six clients of community organisations in Brisbane participated in the intervention and its evaluation. Fear was a barrier to accessing dental services for 23% (n = 18). Attendance to the subsequent appointments at the public dental clinic was high, with 85% (n = 64) attending their first appointment. A higher proportion of participants who had surgical and prosthodontic treatment needs at the screening did not attend their appointment compared to those with other needs. Overall the model piloted in this study had positive outcomes; with high attendance rates to the dental facility and positive experiences by participants.