Objective: The primary aim of this study was to establish how front line hotel employees pay for dental consultations or treatment.
Method: Hotels in the Suva area were categorized according to star rating. The study type used was descriptive in which the dependent variable was methods of dental financing and Independent variables included gender and ethnicity. The tool used for data collection was questionnaire survey (n = 100) on hotel employees reporting findings. Descriptive statistics were used.
Result: The type of funding method for dental services amongst hotel employees is mostly out-of-pocket. In Fiji, a dental fee that is charged in public hospitals is heavily subsidized by the Government. In 2011, the dental fees had risen tremendously leading to problems in accessing care. However, in 2012 the fees reduced by almost 35% which allowed for an increase in people accessing dental care to about 85%.
Conclusion: With the single source of dental financing being out-of-pocket, there is a need for further evaluation and collaboration between the Government of Fiji and Tourism stakeholders in assisting people for better oral health care.