The policy implementation gap of school oral health programmes in Tshwane, South Africa: a qualitative case study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

School going children across the world continue to experience high levels of untreated dental diseases. The South African Oral Health policy documents present measures to address the oral health needs of children in school settings, yet the burden of oral disease in the country is over 50% among primary school children.

Methods

Our study therefore sought to assess the implementation of school oral health programmes in Tshwane in line with policy recommendations using the Walt & Gilson policy analysis triangle. A qualitative explanatory case study was undertaken using a combination of data from direct observations and interviews. The case analysis involved assessing the processes of providing school oral health programmes that were offered at 10 schools in Tshwane.

SUBMITTER: Molete M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7171775 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature