K Sawyer Negro1, Joanna M Scott2, Maureen Marcenko3, Donald L Chi4. 1. Dr. Negro is a pediatric dentist in private practice, None, Bellingham, Wash., USA. 2. Dr. Scott is an assistant professor, Research and Graduate Programs, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, Mo., USA. 3. Dr. Marcenko is a professor, Social Work, Oral Health Sciences, both at the University of Washington, Seattle, Wash., USA. 4. Dr. Chi is an associate professor, Oral Health Sciences, both at the University of Washington, Seattle, Wash., USA;, Email: dchi@uw.edu.
Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of social worker-delivered oral health interventions for preschoolers in foster care. Methods: We interviewed social workers in Washington state (N equals 20). Interview data were coded into three domains: (1) oral health predictors and outcomes; (2) dental care access; and (3) intervention feasibility. Results: The mean age of participants was 39.8±10.5 years, and 65 percent worked in the public sector. Participants believed preschoolers in foster care are at risk for poor oral health, secondary to neglect and suboptimal behaviors. Many children enter foster care not having seen a dentist because of financial barriers and difficulties finding dentists who accept Medicaid. Barriers to care persist after entering foster care. Social workers considered themselves ideal interventionists to lead brief oral health programs during home visits. To enhance feasibility, social workers would require education and training. Conclusion: Future research should explore interventions that could be implemented by social workers to improve the oral health of foster children.
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of social worker-delivered oral health interventions for preschoolers in foster care. Methods: We interviewed social workers in Washington state (N equals 20). Interview data were coded into three domains: (1) oral health predictors and outcomes; (2) dental care access; and (3) intervention feasibility. Results: The mean age of participants was 39.8±10.5 years, and 65 percent worked in the public sector. Participants believed preschoolers in foster care are at risk for poor oral health, secondary to neglect and suboptimal behaviors. Many children enter foster care not having seen a dentist because of financial barriers and difficulties finding dentists who accept Medicaid. Barriers to care persist after entering foster care. Social workers considered themselves ideal interventionists to lead brief oral health programs during home visits. To enhance feasibility, social workers would require education and training. Conclusion: Future research should explore interventions that could be implemented by social workers to improve the oral health of foster children.