Interdisciplinary collaboration effect on the biopsychosocial concerns of dental patients

Objective: To evaluate the outcomes of a dental clinic-based social service program that was developed by the Schools of Dental Medicine (SDM) and Social Work (SSW) to address the biopsychosocial concerns of SDM clinic patients.  Methods: Approximately 1,000 SDM patients have been referred to the CARES (Counseling, Advocacy, Referral, Education, Service) Program for assistance with psychosocial or health-related concerns that influence the continuity of their oral health care during the years 2001-05.  Patient information was reviewed to determine the reasons for referral and the number of patients benefiting from referral to the Program.  Results:

Other less common but important reasons for referral were: Family/Living Concerns, End of Life Concerns, Legal Concerns and Substance Abuse.  It was not uncommon for patients to be referred for one concern and, following assessment, to receive assistance in several areas.

Overall, of the 922 patients listed in the "Reason for Referral" graph, 804 received assistance (87%).

Conclusions:

- CARES Program services contribute to the retention of SDM patients and help them         

  maintain overall health and well-being.

- Many patients received valuable social work assistance with health and mental health

  concerns that were not the original reasons for referral to the CARES Program.

- The CARES Program dramatically improved access to oral health care for a significant

   number of patients by resolving patient issues that were barriers to care. Supported in part by Health and Human Services Administration Grant D59HP20005-05-0.