Understanding the role technology plays in advanced primary care to vulnerable populations is vital to ensure proper and timely diagnosis and treatment to improve healthcare outcomes for the patient. The purpose of this assignment is to evaluate one global burden of disease OR risk factor in the family population (pediatric, adult, or geriatric) and explore one current evidence-based technology use that can offer improvement of outcomes and access to the population chosen.
- Generate knowledge from clinical practice to improve practice and patient outcomes (EOPSLO# 4, 9).
- Leads practice inquiry, individually or in partnership with others (EOPSLO# 2, 3, 4, 7).
- Translates research and other forms of knowledge to improve practice processes and outcomes (EOPSLO# 9).
- Evaluate the relationships among access, cost, quality, and safety and their influence on healthcare (EOPSLO# 3, 6, 9).
- Collaborates in planning for transitions across the continuum of care (EOPSLO# 2, 7).
- Integrates ethical principles in decision-making (EOPSLO# 6, 9).
- Integrates appropriate technologies for knowledge management to improve healthcare (EOPSLO# 5).
- Evaluate the effectiveness of the plan of care for the family, as well as the individual, and implement changes (EOPSLO# 8). choose one global burden of disease and one population (adult, pediatric, or geriatric). Once the population is chosen, find one evidence-based technology to help support the improvement of outcomes in the global burden of disease chosen.
Full Answer Section
- Increased Access: TeleDentistry can bridge geographical barriers, reaching adults in remote areas where dentists are scarce.
- Convenience: It offers flexible appointment scheduling, reducing time and travel burdens for patients.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Teleconsultations can be a more affordable option for initial screenings or consultations compared to traditional in-person visits.
- Early Detection and Prevention: TeleDentistry can facilitate oral health education and promote preventive measures through virtual consultations.
Evidence for Improvement:
A 2020 systematic review by Al-Ansari et al. found that teleDentistry consultations were effective for triage, diagnosis, and treatment planning for various dental conditions [Al-Ansari et al., 2020]. TeleDentistry can also be used for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education.
Addressing EOPSLOs:
This approach aligns with several of the listed EOPSLOs:
- EOPSLO #4 & 9: By exploring TeleDentistry's potential, we generate knowledge to improve practice and potentially improve access to dental care for adults.
- EOPSLO #2, 3, 4, 7: This analysis requires inquiry into TeleDentistry's effectiveness and its impact on access, cost, and quality of care.
- EOPSLO #3, 6, 9: Evaluating TeleDentistry necessitates considering ethical principles, cost-effectiveness, and safety alongside its potential benefits.
- EOPSLO #5: TeleDentistry could be a valuable tool for collaboration within the healthcare system, facilitating referrals and consultations between primary care providers and dentists.
- EOPSLO #7 & 8: Integrating TeleDentistry requires knowledge management strategies to effectively implement and evaluate its impact on patient outcomes.
Conclusion:
TeleDentistry offers a promising evidence-based technology to address the global burden of untreated dental caries in adults, particularly in underserved communities. By increasing access, convenience, and affordability, TeleDentistry can promote early detection, prevention, and management of dental issues, leading to improved oral health outcomes for adults.
Sample Answer
Global Burden of Disease:
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), untreated dental caries (tooth decay) in permanent teeth is the most prevalent health condition globally [WHO]. This is a significant public health issue, particularly for adults in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Untreated cavities can lead to pain, infection, difficulty eating, and even tooth loss.
Population: Adults
Technology: TeleDentistry
TeleDentistry for Improved Outcomes:
TeleDentistry utilizes telecommunication technologies like video conferencing and mobile apps to deliver dental care remotely. This technology offers several advantages to improve access to oral healthcare for adults, especially in underserved communities: