An evaluation of a subsidized dental care program for the elderly : development, implementation and outcome

Date
1987
DOI
Authors
Mendez, Dionella
Version
OA Version
Citation
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to evaluate a subsidized dental care program for the elderly at Boston University School of Graduate Dentistry and examine factors contributing to their utilization and non-utilization of dental services. The study assessed the perceived dental needs, perceived barriers to care, and satisfaction level of the patients who either inquired or participated in the program. A questionnaire was sent to a group of utilizers (participants} and non-utilizers (non-participants} who had inquired about the Subsidized Dental Care Program at Boston University School of Graduate Dentistry. Both groups were compared on the basis of age, sex, income level, health status, perceived need, barriers to care, and importance of dental care. It was significant that most of the utilizers felt there were no barriers in obtaining care. At the same time, utilizers rated cost as being a greater barrier to obtaining care than non-utilizers did. Feedback about the program's strengths and weaknesses was elicited and evaluated.
Description
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Thesis (M.Sc.)--Boston University, Henry M. Goldman School of Graduate Dentistry, 1987 (Dental Public Health).
Includes bibliographical references: (leaves 55-56).
License
This work is protected by copyright. Downloading is restricted to the BU community. If you are the author of this work and would like to make it publicly available, please contact open-help@bu.edu.