DRNPG 1503: Information Systems and the Transformation of Global Health Assignment

Assignment Two: Population and Description Sample Table

Dr. Vandenberg

January 12, 2025

How do information systems and selected databases help inform and support the underserved population while caring for their oral care? Information systems and selected databases are crucial in improving oral health care for underserved populations by providing valuable data. Databases are essential to supporting underserved populations with oral health care by collecting, analyzing, and sharing data to improve access to care and outcomes. Here are some ways databases can help these populations:

  1. Electronic Health Records (EHRs) help track patient visits, treatments, and outcomes, enabling healthcare providers to monitor and improve oral health practices. They also facilitate the sharing of patient information among providers, ensuring continuity of care.
  2. The National Oral Health Information System (NOHIS) is an information system that significantly improves oral health care for underserved populations by providing valuable data and resources, providing access to care, and recording outcomes. This data helps identify disparities in oral health care and target interventions for underserved populations (Malvitz, Barker, & Phipps, 2009). Also, by providing data on oral health trends, NOHIS supports public health initiatives to improve access to care for vulnerable populations. These initiatives include community-based programs, educational campaigns, and policy reforms.
  3. NOHIS data informs policymakers and healthcare providers about the needs of underserved populations, helping allocate resources more effectively. This ensures that funding and services are directed to areas with the greatest need.
  4. NOHIS collects data for research on oral health disparities and the effectiveness of interventions. This research informs policy development and advocacy efforts to improve oral health care for underserved populations.
  5. NOHIS also supports sharing health information among providers, improving care coordination and service access. This helps ensure that underserved populations receive timely and appropriate care.
  6. By tracking the delivery and outcomes of oral health services, NOHIS helps healthcare providers identify areas for improvement and implement quality measures to enhance care for underserved populations (Malvitz, Barker, & Phipps, 2009). This includes funding for dental clinics, mobile dental units, and community health programs. By identifying underserved areas, NOHIS helps allocate resources more effectively to those most need them.
  7. NOHIS supports education and training programs for dental professionals, ensuring they are equipped to serve diverse and underserved populations. This includes training on cultural competency and addressing barriers to care.
  8. NOHIS raises public awareness about the importance of oral health and the existing disparities. This helps to mobilize community support and encourages individuals to seek preventive care. NOHIS helps create a more equitable oral health care system where everyone can access quality care regardless of background or circumstances.
  9. Databases such as Healthy People 2030 provide evidence-based resources on effective oral health interventions (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2020). These resources help develop programs and policies that are proven to work, ensuring that underserved populations receive the best possible care. Healthy People 2030 is a set of national health objectives to improve oral health. It includes objectives for increasing access to oral health care and preventive services. The initiative provides a framework for tracking progress and identifying areas needing improvement.
  10. Information systems enable telehealth services, benefiting underserved populations in rural or remote areas. Telehealth allows for remote consultations, diagnosis, and treatment planning, reducing barriers to access.
  11. Information systems facilitate the integration of oral health into overall health care. This holistic approach ensures that oral health is considered alongside other health issues, leading to better health outcomes for underserved populations.
  12. Databases provide educational materials and training resources for dental professionals, helping them stay informed about the latest evidence-based practices
    and how to implement them in their work with underserved populations. By leveraging these information systems and databases, healthcare providers can
    better understand and address underserved populations' unique challenges, ultimately improving their oral health outcomes.
  13. 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 health 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 preventative care and treatment.

pop sample

What are three adult populations of the underserved populations in oral health care?

  1. Low-income adults and adults without dental insurance often face significant barriers to dental care due to cost, lack of insurance, and limited availability of affordable services.
  2. Racial and Ethnic Minorities: Minority groups, such as African Americans, Hispanics, and Native Americans, often experience disparities in oral health care
    access and outcomes due to systemic inequalities, cultural barriers, and socioeconomic factors.
  3. Rural Residents: People living in rural areas often have limited access to dental care providers, leading to poorer oral health outcomes than those in urban areas.
    Approximately 57 million Americans live in a dental health professional shortage area, with about 67% of these areas located in rural communities (CDC, 2024).

All three of these populations face unique challenges that require targeted interventions and policies to improve their access to oral health care and overall
well-being.

References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2024). Health disparities in oral health. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/oral-health/health-equity/index.html

Malvitz, D.M., Barker, L., & Phipps, K. R. (2009). Development and status of the National Oral Health Surveillance Systems, Preventing Chronic Disease, 6, A66. https://doi.org/10.5888/pcd6.2A66

Thakkar, R., Pimpale, J.V., Kaur, A., Thakkar, P., Sheth, M., & Karre, S. (2023). Teledentistry For underserved populations: An evidence-based exploration of access, outcomes, and implications. Journal of Research in Medical and Dental Science. Retrieved from: https://www.jrmds.in/articles/teledentistry-for-derserved-populations-an- evidence-based-exploration-of-access-outcomes-and-implications.pdf

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2020). Healthy People 2030. Retrieved from https://health.gov/healthypeople