Testing a Model for Assessing Quality of Dental Geriatric Programs

Objectives: Quality assessment in dental geriatrics is difficult because there are no widely accepted care objectives or quality indicators. We have proposed a model for assessing quality of oral healthcare services in long-term care facilities based on a combination of theoretical principles of quality assessment in general healthcare and empirical information specifically about dental geriatrics from an ethnographic case study of a university-based program in Vancouver. This study reports on the testing of the model when applied to another dental geriatric program in northern British Columbia. It aims to firstly, evaluate the feasibility and usability of the model; and secondly, explain how the model was revised following this application.

Methods: Implementation process and product of applying the assessment model were evaluated against a series of feasibility and usability criteria endorsed by leading quality management agencies. We applied the assessment model by conducting 15 interviews with participants in the program, made site-visits to the 5 facilities, and reviewed documents on the development and operations of the program.

Results: The model was feasible because 1) the data required is available within the normal operational flow of the program; 2) the cost and time required for assessment is reasonable; 3) confidentiality is addressed; and 4) audit trails are available. However, the label and descriptors of some quality indicators were expanded to fit the different contexts. Although the model helps the assessment process, it needs further modification to initiate improvement of the program.

Conclusions: The original model with minor modification provides a feasible and useful process for assessing the quality of programs in other context by prompting participants to build capacity and improve performance and outcomes.