Dental clinicians' perceptions on the use of tele-dentistry consultations during COVID-19 within public dental clinics in Sydney, Australia
Background
Although well accepted by clinicians and patients, teledentistry is not currently a widely used model of care within Australian public oral health services. This qualitative study aimed to review and evaluate dental clinicians' perceptions, by determining the acceptability and appropriateness of teledentistry as a model of care.
Methods
A purposive sample of 12 public dental practitioners employed by a Local Health District in Sydney, and who had participated in teledentistry consultations, were recruited to participate in focus groups. Focus group discussions were transcribed verbatim and subjected to thematic analysis.
Results
Teledentistry was a novel concept for most participants and was well accepted. Participants valued the use of a standardized consultation template as well as effective communication with other dental clinicians to support the practice of teledentistry. However, many found attempting contact with patients over the telephone difficult as well as the perceived patient frustration with the administration process and technological difficulties experienced.
期刊介绍:
The Australian Dental Journal provides a forum for the exchange of information about new and significant research in dentistry, promoting the discipline of dentistry in Australia and throughout the world. It comprises peer-reviewed research articles as its core material, supplemented by reviews, theoretical articles, special features and commentaries.