Health care seeking behaviour of patients reporting to a dental health Institution- A cross sectional study

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Original Article

Author Details : Shreya Anilkumar Ghattad, Hema Tyavanige Shekharappa*

Volume : 12, Issue : 3, Year : 2024

Article Page : 143-147

https://doi.org/10.18231/j.idjsr.2024.027

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Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to assess the factors influencing healthcare-seeking behaviour among patients presenting to a dental institution.
Background: Oral diseases, such as dental caries and periodontal diseases are prevalent global health concerns, particularly in developed countries, whereas oral cancers are more common in developing countries. In India, there is observed lower utilization of dental care services and higher rates of dental problems.
Materials and Methods: This descriptive study involved 220 patients who visited a dental college and hospital in India. Patients were interviewed to gather information on their chief complaint, history of previous treatment for the complaint, and reasons for delaying dental treatment.
Results: The study identified several key factors contributing to delays in seeking dental treatment. Negligence was cited by 27.1% of patients, absence of symptoms by 14.5%, and financial constraints by 9%. Gender, occupation, and education level of patients also showed varying impacts on healthcare-seeking behaviour.
Conclusion: Negligence, lack of symptom awareness, and financial constraints, particularly in rural and suburban areas were the significant barriers to timely dental treatment among patients in a dental institution in India.

Keywords: Health care, Behaviour, Dental caries, Delay, Chief complaint

How to cite : Ghattad S A, Shekharappa H T, Health care seeking behaviour of patients reporting to a dental health Institution- A cross sectional study. Int Dent J Stud Res 2024;12(3):143-147

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