Objectives: The Australian population is following the international trend of an ageing society. Due to our ageing society, there are an increasing number of people living in residential care. As a result, the medical well-being of these individuals depends upon the care provided by of the nursing home staff. Despite the overall improvement in the medical care of nursing home patients worldwide, there are studies indicating there is often suboptimal oral and dental care of patients. Though there have been previous studies on oral health care for nursing home residents, there is limited information available regarding the perspectives of General Medical Practitioners.
Methods: Through qualitative data collection, we consulted with General (Medical) Practitioners to determine their perception of oral care in high care nursing homes and views on improving the current system. Six General (Medical) Practitioners were interviewed about various aspects of nursing home oral health and access to dental care.
Results: Based on the results of this study, it was evident that oral care was perceived to be suboptimal in nursing homes in comparison to medical care. General Practitioners reviewed their patients once a month and they would assess every new nursing home patient on admission. General Practitioners found it difficult to access dental care for their patients when required and this was complicated by the patient's poor health and lack of access to dental care. In addition, General Practitioners suggested that improving nursing staff education, increasing funding to dental care facilities and dental reviews on admission for new nursing patient may improve the oral health of nursing home patients.
Conclusions: It would be beneficial for patients to receive an initial dental review on admission to the nursing home and receive regular dental reviews to improve the patient's overall oral health.