Diabetes, Relaxed Mind, and Away from Oral Health Problems

Abstract

Background: Oral health screening for diabetic patients is important because diabetes can lead to complications within the oral cavity, such as burning sensations, slow wound healing, and periodontal disease. Therefore, an annual oral health check-up for diabetic patients is necessary to prevent oral health problems.

Objectives : To ensure that at least 60% of diabetic patients receive an annual oral health chec-up and 40% receive dental services.

Research Methodology: Phase 1 (October 2023 - December 2023): Joint meetings were held to identify causes and solutions, modify work schedules, and adjust data entry systems.

Phase 2 (January 2024 - March 2024): Development of an online diabetes patient registry and improvement of appointment management for better efficiency.

Phase 3 (April 2024 - Present): Community-based screening in collaboration with promotion agencies and the use of the "3 Doctors Model" for oral health screening.

Results: Phase 1 results for oral health screening and dental service provision did not meet the set targets. However, Phase 3 demonstrated significant improvement, with 69.06% of patients screened for oral health and 41.23% receiving dental services, surpassing the objectives.

Conclusion: The modification of both passive and active work processes, in collaboration with the community and various agencies, helps increase access to oral health screening and dental services for diabetic patients. This leads to improve outcomes and better management of dental health in this vulnerable group.