Introduction: It was recognized that a majority of the HIV+ patients receiving care at Columbia University SDOS were obtaining only emergency treatment. In light of this finding, a program was developed to provide co-located dental services in community-based organizations in Central Harlem and Washington Heights. Objective: We sought to assess the oral health needs of these patients, using data from the first six months of the program. Method: At patient intake, a survey tool was used to gather data on patient demographics, past service utilization, patient perception of oral health, caries risk assessment and prevalence of smoking as a risk factor for oral disease. Results: From August 1999-January 2000, there were 164 participants. Forty-one percent were female, 77%African-American, 20% Hispanic and 100% medically indigent. Less than 15% of participants had visited a dentist within the past year; of the remaining 85%, over half went only for emergency treatment. Patient perception of oral health status did not correlate with actual caries risk assessment for more than two-thirds of patients. In addition to inadequate oral hygiene and lack of access to care, smoking was the most prevalent risk factor for oral disease in >90% of participants. Conclusion: This traditionally hard to reach indigent population has an overwhelming need for dental services. It is anticipated that preventive, early intervention, and comprehensive services will become accessible due to our efforts. If outreach to HIV-infected individuals is to be successful we need to consider partnerships with community-based organizations
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, the participant will be able to: 1. recognize the oral health needs of HIV-infected patients, 2. consider implications for improving access to primary dental care for patients with HIV/AIDS
Keywords: Oral Health Needs, HIV/AIDS
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.