DRNPG 1503: Information Systems and the Transformation of Global Health

Quality Improvement Project: Measurable Patient Safety Outcomes

Dr. Vandenberg

December 22, 2024

Measurable Safety Outcomes

Clinical safety measures in oral health care improve the effectiveness, quality, and safety. Three measurable safety outcomes for this assignment will include:

  1. Reduction in Dental Caries: Estimate the decrease in dental caries (tooth decay) during 8 weeks in underserved populations.
  2. Improvement in Oral Hygiene Practices: To monitor alteration of oral hygiene behaviors "brushing" and "flossing" over 8 weeks.
  3. Access to Preventative Care: Tracking the count of dental patients undergoing routine dental examinations/cleanings within 8 weeks.

Measurable Patient Safety Outcomes Characteristics Table

measureable patient safety

Application of Information Systems Applied to Oral Health Care in the Underserved Population

Oral health is frequently overlooked yet an essential aspect of overall well-being. Described as a “silent epidemic,” poor oral health impacts nearly 4 billion people
worldwide and result in substantial economic losses. In the United States (U.S.), oral diseases, including both inflammatory and degenerative conditions, have an annual financial impact of approximately $136 billion, emphasizing the urgency of integrating oral health into broader health policy frameworks and enhancing accessible, cost-effective preventive measures, particularly among children, older adults, and underserved populations (Chamut et al., 2024).

Several information systems aid in the reduction of dental caries for underserved populations by improving data collection, analysis, and intervention strategies. Key systems include electronic health records (EHRs), Dental Quality Alliance (DQA), and Healthy People 2030, which increases access to oral health care and preventive services. It also provides a framework for tracking progress and identifying areas needing improvement. Telehealth platforms enable remote consultations, making dental care more accessible to individuals in underserved or remote areas (Thakkar et al., 2023). These platforms allow patients to receive timely advice and guidance from oral health professionals without needing in-person visits.

Mobile dental clinics with digital tools can reach populations with limited access to traditional dental care. These clinics provide essential services directly to communities in need, improving access to preventive care and treatment.

Public health dentistry initiatives focus on integrating oral health into broader public health strategies. These initiatives often involve community-based programs, educational campaigns, and policy reforms to improve oral health outcomes (Dimensions of Dental Hygiene, 2022). They collect data to identify trends, patterns, and areas for improvement. This can include tracking the incidence of dental caries, emergency visits, and preventive care utilization.

The collected data can provide feedback loops where stakeholders can review the reports, provide input, and suggest improvements. This can be done through meetings, surveys, or online platforms. Based on the feedback, changes can be implemented in oral health care programs, and interventions can occur. This could involve adjusting preventive care strategies, enhancing patient education, or improving access to dental services. Feedback mechanisms can include community feedback sessions and data analysis to identify areas for improvement.

References

Chamut, S., Alhassan, M., Hameedaldeen, A. et al. (2024). Every bite counts to achieve oral health: A scoping review of diet and oral health preventive practices is needed. International Journal for Equity in Health 23, 261.

Dimensions of Dental Hygiene. (2022). Implementing Public Health Interventions to Reduce Caries Prevalence. Dimensions of Dental Hygiene, 20(11), 21-23.

Thakkar, R., Pimpale, J., Kaur, A., Thakkar, P., Sheth M., & Karre, S. (2023). Teledensitry for Underserved Populations: An Evidence-Based Exploration of Access, Outcomes, and Implications. Journal of Research in Medical and Dental Science, 11(9), 10-17.