Perception of ‘Comprehensiveness of Care’: a qualitative study amongst dentists in the Brazilian Health System

Abstract

Comprehensiveness relates both to the scope of services offered and to a holistic clinical approach. The aim of this study was to identify the perception of Brazilian dentists regarding key concepts of comprehensiveness and its importance in primary health care oral health services performed in the public sector. Focus groups were conducted to explore three main concepts, 'patient welcoming', 'bonding' and 'quality of care', as well as their aspects. In total, there were four focus groups comprising seven general dentists, all of whom had at least two years of experience in primary care, from municipalities of varying sizes. Discussions of approximately 60 minutes were conducted, audio-recorded and transcribed. The data were analysed by qualitative thematic analysis, in line with the framework approach. The general dentists reported that they are aware that in the Brazilian Health System, the onset of patient care by primary health care services must happen through 'patient welcoming.' Nevertheless, they suggested that this action is often performed poorly due to the large volume of patients. Although they knew the importance of 'bonding', they realised that there is a lack of education preparing professionals to address interpersonal and social issues. They were aware that 'quality of care' is related to multiple factors. Comprehensiveness, as an approach in dental public health practices, needs to be enhanced, and there is evidence that primary care dentists are aware of the need for such an approach.

A integralidade do Cuidado no Ensino na Área da Saúde: uma Revisão Sistemática

“…Contudo, caracterizada por uma multiplicidade de sentidos, a integralidade configura-se polissêmica e demanda a formação de competências e habilidades que permeiam o trabalho em equipe e a transdisciplinaridade do cuidado integral, construído diariamente nas novas relações estabelecidas entre usuários e profissional de saúde [26][27][28][29][30][31] .…”

Evaluating Psychometric Properties of an Instrument Addressing Comprehensiveness of Care Among Dentists

“…The comprehensiveness of care has been defined previously (11)(12)(13)(14). Comprehensiveness means to look after people as whole beings in the way in which they live and to provide all of the care that the individuals may need; it indicates a comprehensive approach to people in which the full range of their health needs is recognized, and it was this direction that this study explored (1,11,14).…”

“…On the one hand, comprehensiveness is related to shaping health practices that promote multidisciplinary and team care. On the other hand, it is important that professionals who establish these practices understand and take part in this process because using the standards of comprehensiveness applied in PHC, health services are shaped by making a connection between spontaneous and programmed flows of patients, being able to apply diagnostic protocols and identifying risk situations for health, as well as creating locations for health promotion actions in the community (11)(12)(13)(14).…”

“…This study is part of a larger research project that aimed to construct and validate a questionnaire instrument to assess primary care from the perspective of dentists, based on key concepts related to comprehensiveness of care (12). …”

“…First, we performed a literature review on the subject and established initial parameters for the development of the instrument (12)(13)(14).…”