Management of Dental Health Services in Selected Upazila Health Complex

Objective: To find out the status of the management of dental health services in selected Upazila Health Complex.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted between January 2022 and December 2022 at Three Upazila Health Complex (UHC) in Mymensingh District. The study aimed to assess the management of dental health services. A total of 368 respondents, comprising 35 service providers and 333 service receivers, were selected using a convenient sampling method. Relevant data were collected through a pretested semi-structured questionnaire, and an observation checklist was used to identify the available facilities. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS software version 22.

Results: Out of 35 service providers, 51.4% recommended the need for an adequate supply of gloves and masks. 80% of them expressed concern over the inadequate number of service providers, while 68.6% suggested an increase in manpower. Additionally, 17.1% of service providers suggested ensuring an adequate supply of instruments and materials.

Among the 333 service receivers, 45% reported being consulted and referred to a referral system. All service receivers would recommend their family, friends, and relatives to visit the UHC for dental health services. Furthermore, 79.9% of service receivers were satisfied with their treatment.

However, 75.6% of service receivers did not receive test facilities, 53.2% did not receive all prescribed medicines, and 85.9% did not receive dental health education. About 23.37% of service receivers recommended providing all types of treatment, and 22.28% recommended ensuring an adequate supply of all drugs.

Unfortunately, there were no emergency generators and wheelchairs available for severely ill and aged patient.

Conclusion: Continuous improvement is necessary to achieve the ideal dental service. This improvement can be achieved through the enhancement of facilities, utilization of modern equipment, adequate manpower, in-service training, and other means to improve the overall management of dental health services under the Upazila Health Complex (UHC).