This study evaluated a large mobile dental care program based in Minnesota. Authors used data collected during a two‐day site visit and multivariate regression analysis of electronic records of adults and children who received care from 2000 through 2015, representing 84,279 unique patients.
Authors found:
- The number of patients increased from 5,558 in 2000 to 13,863 in 2015
- A decline in the share of preventive procedures over this period, from 45.7% to 29.4%
- An increase in the share of patients seen at fixed sites.
The interview data revealed that program growth relied on relationships with school leaders, expanded scope of practice for dental assistants and dental therapists, and high Medicaid reimbursement. Authors conclude that mobile dental care programs can increase both preventive and restorative dental care for individuals who otherwise would not easily access oral health care services; mobile dental programs could be an option in many other communities and schools.
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Publication Authors:
- Joanne Spetz
- Nadereh Pourat, PhD
- Xiao Chen, PhD
- Christopher Lee, MPH
- Ana E. Martinez, MPH
- Kong Xin, M.S.
- Dana Hughes
