An integrated oral health program for rural residential aged care facilities: a mixed methods comparative study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

People in residential aged care facilities (RACF) are at very high risk of developing complex oral diseases and dental problems. A multidisciplinary approach incorporating oral health professionals and RACF staff is important for improving and sustaining oral health in RACFs. However, difficulties exist with access to oral health services for RACFs, particularly those in regional and rural areas. This study investigated the impact and experience of an integrated oral health program utilising tele-dentistry and Oral Health Therapists (OHT) in RACFs in a rural setting within Australia.

Methods

A mixed method comparison study was undertaken. Two hundred fifty-two clinical audits were completed across nine facilities with and without access to the integrated oral heal

SUBMITTER: Tynan A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6029389 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature