IADR Abstract Archives
Improving transition of oral care for patients with special needs
Objectives: To evaluate the perceptions of caregivers of patients with special health care needs (SHCN) regarding the factors that may impede or facilitate the transition process from paediatric to adult-based dental care
Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine caregivers to discuss the anticipated challenges and perceived enablers during the transition process. An inductive thematic analysis directed by the grounded theory approach was performed.
Results: Four themes emerged for anticipated challenges: (i) uncertainty over acclimatisation to a new environment, (ii) not knowing how to search for suitable dentist, (iii) lack of capable and willing dentists, and (iv) financial concerns. Four other themes emerged for suggested facilitators: (i) information on how to find a suitable dentist, (ii) communication between paediatric and adult dentists (e.g. handover memo, verbal discussion), (iii) onsite- introduction to the adult dentist, and (iv) having a capable and willing dental team.
Conclusions: Findings revealed various logistical, administrative, financial and professional barriers which need to be addressed in tandem. Addressing these barriers can be impactful in ensuring that individuals with SHCN benefit from a seamless and smooth transition from paediatric to adult-based dental care.
Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine caregivers to discuss the anticipated challenges and perceived enablers during the transition process. An inductive thematic analysis directed by the grounded theory approach was performed.
Results: Four themes emerged for anticipated challenges: (i) uncertainty over acclimatisation to a new environment, (ii) not knowing how to search for suitable dentist, (iii) lack of capable and willing dentists, and (iv) financial concerns. Four other themes emerged for suggested facilitators: (i) information on how to find a suitable dentist, (ii) communication between paediatric and adult dentists (e.g. handover memo, verbal discussion), (iii) onsite- introduction to the adult dentist, and (iv) having a capable and willing dental team.
Conclusions: Findings revealed various logistical, administrative, financial and professional barriers which need to be addressed in tandem. Addressing these barriers can be impactful in ensuring that individuals with SHCN benefit from a seamless and smooth transition from paediatric to adult-based dental care.