Variations in pediatric dental coverage and visits following the implementation of healthcare policies in Pakistan

Abstract

Background: In Pakistan, healthcare policies have been implemented to improve children's oral health, including the provision of dental services at primary healthcare centers, the inclusion of dental care services in health insurance schemes, and the promotion of oral health education among the public. However, it is unclear whether these policies have resulted in uniform changes in pediatric dental coverage and visits across different regions and socioeconomic groups. Objective: This study aimed to investigate variations in pediatric dental coverage and visits following the implementation of healthcare policies in Pakistan. Methods: A cross-sectional survey design was used, with a sample size of 200 children aged 0-18 years. Data on pediatric dental coverage and visits were collected through structured interviews with the children and their parents or guardians. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests to identify any significant variations in the pediatric dental coverage and visits across different regions and socioeconomic groups. Results: The study found that there were significant variations in pediatric dental coverage and visits across different regions and socioeconomic groups.