Covid-19 and delivery of dental health care services at Army Dental centre Research & Referral: A holistic assessment

Abstract

Background: The practice of dentistry has been worst affected in Covid-19 pandemic due to its non-emergency nature and fear of rapid spread of disease through aerosol generating procedures. But, multiple dental problems can severely compromise function. This assumes even greater significance when it concerns the health of Armed Forces. ADC (R&R) was always at the forefront providing essential, urgent and scheduled dental care at various stages of pandemic with stringent management protocols.Aims and Objectives: To evaluate challenges, measures and the outcome in delivery of dental services based on observational assessment from 20 Mar-30 Nov 2020. The objectives were to assess patient attendance trends, reason for availing dental services, loss of manhours, antibiotic usage, Covid protection measures and resources, aerosol generating procedures, Knowledge/Attitude/Perception (KAP) studies, Covid-19 casualties, management of quarantine periods.Materials and Methods: Patients and staff data based on attendance, treatment instituted, patient screening procedures, additional expenses on Covid related resources, infrastructural changes etc.Results and Conclusion: The total of 13,046 patients were treated. There has been a considerable loss of manhours and more than 65% of the allocated budget was used in managing patients which otherwise were less than 25-30% of the pre-covid attendance. The manpower requirements tripled and the housekeeping services were heavily taxed. The staff Covid-19 casualties were considerably low and no patient reported acquiring Covid-19 infection post dental treatment at this centre. If the condition persisted, the ability to provide dental health care services will be an uphill administrative and financial challenge.