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A Qualitative Study: An Evaluation of the Perception of Ohio Dental Hygienists that Work with Underserved Populations and use the Oral Health Access Supervision Program Permit

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2019, Master of Dental Hygiene, Ohio State University, Dental Hygiene.
Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate dental hygienists in the state of Ohio who currently worked with underserved communities using their Oral Health Access Supervision Program (OHASP) permit to determine their perceptions of (1) what would be necessary to practice in non-traditional settings and (2) how to create a sustainable position to increase access to care to underserved populations in the state. Methods: Qualitative methods were used for this study. Purposeful sampling occurred and an electronic survey was emailed to 95 dental hygienists in Ohio who had their permit. Interviews were conducted on the phone and an electronic recording device was used to record the conversation. Emerging patterns and themes were identified by the interviewer and data collection was terminated when no new themes had emerged. Results: Out of the 95 individuals who were sent the survey, 52.3% participated in the initial survey. Ten percent of those who responded agreed to be interviewed. Four themes emerged: 1)Equipment and Collaboration, 2)Skill Sets Required, 3)Rewards and Motivations to Pursue, and 4)Challenges. Conclusions: There continues to be a need for dental hygienists to pursue careers that provide dental care to underserved communities. Providing dental care for patients where they are located and exhibiting an empathetic and collaborative spirit is critical. While there continues to be challenges when pursuing this career path, professional organizations influence dental hygienists and their desire to pursue a career working with underserved populations.
Rachel Kearney, RDH MS (Advisor)
Joen Iannucci, DDS MS (Committee Member)
Erin Gross, DDS (Committee Member)
46 p.

Recommended Citations

Citations

  • Cobb, J. E. (2019). A Qualitative Study: An Evaluation of the Perception of Ohio Dental Hygienists that Work with Underserved Populations and use the Oral Health Access Supervision Program Permit [Master's thesis, Ohio State University]. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1554937449192503

    APA Style (7th edition)

  • Cobb, Janelle. A Qualitative Study: An Evaluation of the Perception of Ohio Dental Hygienists that Work with Underserved Populations and use the Oral Health Access Supervision Program Permit. 2019. Ohio State University, Master's thesis. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center, http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1554937449192503.

    MLA Style (8th edition)

  • Cobb, Janelle. "A Qualitative Study: An Evaluation of the Perception of Ohio Dental Hygienists that Work with Underserved Populations and use the Oral Health Access Supervision Program Permit." Master's thesis, Ohio State University, 2019. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1554937449192503

    Chicago Manual of Style (17th edition)