Charlotte W Lewis1, Diana C Cantrell, Peter K Domoto. 1. Division of General Pediatrics, Child Health Institute, University of Washington, Box 354920, Seattle, WA 98195, USA. cwlewis@u.washington.edu
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Pediatric health care providers may be the only source of preventive oral health education for families of young children who lack access to professional dental care. OBJECTIVE: We surveyed Washington State pediatricians in order to characterize their oral health-related educational needs and anticipatory guidance practices. METHODS: A 38-question survey was mailed to all 606 general pediatricians in Washington State. Topics included anticipatory practices and confidence in oral health-related activities. RESULTS: Of 483 eligible participants, 271 returned completed surveys (response rate: 57%). A median of 30 percent of the well-child visit was devoted to providing anticipatory guidance. A majority (83.7%) of respondents reported providing anticipatory guidance on oral health. CONCLUSION: Washington State pediatricians are already involved in providing oral health anticipatory guidance. Certain factors are identified that should be addressed to allow pediatricians to promote oral health more effectively.
BACKGROUND: Pediatric health care providers may be the only source of preventive oral health education for families of young children who lack access to professional dental care. OBJECTIVE: We surveyed Washington State pediatricians in order to characterize their oral health-related educational needs and anticipatory guidance practices. METHODS: A 38-question survey was mailed to all 606 general pediatricians in Washington State. Topics included anticipatory practices and confidence in oral health-related activities. RESULTS: Of 483 eligible participants, 271 returned completed surveys (response rate: 57%). A median of 30 percent of the well-child visit was devoted to providing anticipatory guidance. A majority (83.7%) of respondents reported providing anticipatory guidance on oral health. CONCLUSION: Washington State pediatricians are already involved in providing oral health anticipatory guidance. Certain factors are identified that should be addressed to allow pediatricians to promote oral health more effectively.
Authors: Gabriella Di Giuseppe; Carmelo G A Nobile; Alessandra Marinelli; Italo F Angelillo Journal: BMC Public Health Date: 2006-07-05 Impact factor: 3.295