Needs Assessment and Development Guidelines for Digital Technology Supporting Dental Service Systems for Older Adults in Thailand
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Abstract
Digital technology plays an important role in strengthening dental service systems for older adults in Thailand. The objective of this study was to explore the perceptions, and needs regarding digital technology, as well as to synthesize development guidelines for digital technologies to support dental service systems for older adults. A cross-sectional survey research design was employed, complemented by qualitative analysis of open-ended responses. The study included 375 dental personnel. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation, while qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis. The results showed that most participants had more than two years of work experience (50.7%). The participants consisted of dental nurses (44.0%), dentists (28.8%), and public health officers working in dental public health services (27.2%). Smartphones were the most commonly used digital devices (76.0%). The most frequently used digital health technologies were government-developed health applications, particularly Mor Prom (84.3%). Most participants expressed a need for the development of digital applications for the public (71.7%), including online appointment systems, oral health information management systems, and teleconsultation services via video calls. The major barriers identified were budget constraints (92.3%) and limited internet accessibility in service areas (88.0%). The findings highlight the necessity of developing digital technology that responds to the needs of practitioners. Furthermore, integrating health information systems is essential to enhance the efficiency of elderly oral healthcare and to support the future development of the elderly dental service system in Thailand.
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