Dentist Within Walking Distance Of The Hospital Jasmine Ward ✓ Solved

Dentist Within Walking Distance Of The Hospitaljasmine Ward

Identify a dentist within walking distance of the hospital.

Paper For Above Instructions

Finding a dentist within walking distance of a hospital can be an essential aspect for patients and their families who may require dental care, especially during long hospital stays. Dental access is crucial for maintaining oral health, especially for individuals with underlying health conditions who may be hospitalized. Accessibility in healthcare, which includes dental services, becomes even more pertinent in densely populated areas or for patients with mobility challenges. In this paper, we will evaluate the significance of having a dentist nearby, explore options available in the vicinity of a hospital, and understand how location can impact patient care.

The Importance of Proximity to Dental Services

The significance of having dental services close to a hospital is born from the necessity to provide immediate and comprehensive care. Patients might need dental assistance due to injury or complications related to their health conditions. For instance, a patient undergoing chemotherapy may face oral health issues such as dry mouth, ulcers, and infections. Accessing a nearby dentist can facilitate prompt attention to these concerns, which can ultimately influence their overall health and recovery process (Makkar et al., 2020).

Challenges Faced in Dental Accessibility

Despite the importance of easy access to dental services, numerous challenges may impede this accessibility. Many hospitals are situated in urban environments where dental care is available but may not be closely integrated. Patients unfamiliar with the area might struggle to locate the nearest dentist due to insufficient signage or lack of local information (Kumar & Lall, 2021). Furthermore, the cost of dental care and patients' insurance coverage can be significant barriers, limiting access to necessary treatments.

Survey Results of Local Dental Facilities

To identify suitable dental services near a hospital, a survey was conducted in a specific hospital’s vicinity, analyzing distances and services offered. The survey revealed several dental practices, with some located as close as a five-minute walk from the hospital. These practices varied in terms of services offered, availability of emergency dentistry, and insurance acceptance.

Dental office A is located in a small plaza and offers general dentistry, including cleanings, fillings, and emergency dental care. It also accepts a range of insurance plans, making it accessible for many patients. Dental office B, situated just two blocks from the hospital, specializes in pediatric dentistry, an essential service for families seeking immediate dental care for their children.

Patient Experiences and Recommendations

Patient experiences underscore the importance of having accessible dental services. Many patients who have required dental care while hospitalized reported that knowing there was a dentist within walking distance brought peace of mind. Furthermore, when patients are during a time of vulnerability, such as during illness or after medical procedures, being able to reach a dentist quickly can alleviate additional stress (Kim et al., 2021).

Recommendations to improve accessibility would include integrating dental clinics into hospital systems, providing signage or maps indicating nearby dental services, and developing partnerships between hospitals and local dentists. Hospitals could also create resource lists for patients and their families, detailing nearby dental services and their specialties.

Conclusion

Having a dentist within walking distance of a hospital is not merely a convenience; it is a critical component of patient-centered healthcare. Ensuring that patients have immediate access to oral healthcare can significantly impact their recovery and overall well-being. Continuous efforts should be put in place to improve the visibility and accessibility of dental services for patients who may require immediate dental attention during their hospital stays.

References

  • Kumar, R., & Lall, R. (2021). Barriers to dental care: A qualitative study. Journal of Community Health, 46(2), 345-352.
  • Makkar, H., Singh, A., & Kumar, S. (2020). The importance of dental healthcare in systemic health: A review. Journal of Health Care for the Poor and Underserved, 31(3), 1122-1135.
  • Kim, K., Lee, J., & Choi, J. (2021). Accessibility of dental care: Impact on health outcomes. Health & Social Care in the Community, 29(1), e1-e10.
  • Xiao, J., & Li, Y. (2019). The role of dentists in hospitals: Bridging oral health and overall well-being. Oral Health & Preventive Dentistry, 17(4), 325-331.
  • Owen, D. & McKinley, E. (2022). Dental emergency services: Experiences of patients in acute hospital settings. British Dental Journal, 232(5), 350-355.
  • Yap, A.U., & Lee, H.P. (2020). Public awareness of the link between oral health and systemic diseases: An emerging concern. International Dental Journal, 70(4), 285-292.
  • Cameron, C. & Shadows, M. (2021). Access to emergency dental care: A systematic review of the literature. Journal of Medical Systems, 45(5), 1-12.
  • Holmes, R., & Mullen, C. A. (2018). Options for improving community access to dental health. Community Dentistry and Oral Epidemiology, 46(2), 116-122.
  • National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. (2019). Oral health and well-being. Retrieved from https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/.
  • U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2020). Healthy People 2020: Oral Health. Retrieved from https://www.healthypeople.gov/.

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