INTEGRATION OF DENTAL PATIENT-REPORTED OUTCOMES (dPROs) IN TELEDENTISTRY TO ENHANCE PATIENT-CENTERED CARE: A SCOPING REVIEW

Abstract

Introduction

Teledentistry offers an opportunity to improve Patient-Centered Care (PCC) for dental patients. Evaluation of PCC in conventional and teledentistry requires the use of Dental Patient-Reported Outcome Measures (dPROMs). However, there is limited literature on the integration of dPROMs in teledentistry, and a need arises for the synthesis of existing knowledge, comprehending it and identifying the gaps. Hence, conducting a scoping review would systematically map out the key themes, provide insights into the trends and highlight knowledge gaps in the currently published literature.

Methods

Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were searched using a combination of keywords such as “Teledentistry,” “dental patient-reported outcome measures,” and “dPROMs.” Using established eligibility criteria, suitable records were exported and organized on an Excel sheet. Original research and review articles in English where dPROMs or its dimensions were used after a teledentistry session were included. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for scoping review (PRISMA-ScR) criteria was followed to report the results.

Results

Out of the 28 reviewed studies, majority were cross-sectional and were largely conducted in the UK, the USA, India, and Indonesia. Studies predominantly had adult population and female participants. Most studies highlighted dPROMs dimensions such as patient satisfaction, communication, and travel convenience, suggesting that dPROMs in teledentistry may enhance PCC.

Conclusion

Distinction between the indicators of PCC, like patient satisfaction and patient experience, is necessary. Future studies should concentrate on longitudinal studies across various demographic groups with standardized measurement and equal gender representation.