Developing Interprofessional Collaboration Between Occupational Therapists & Dental Professionals
Authors:
Thomas J. Pinto, OT/s, Nancy Baker, ScD, MPH, OTR, FAOTA, Maria Dolce, PhD, RN
Abstract:
In the US, individuals with complex medical needs are at a greater risk of having unmet dental needs. The Tufts University School of Dental Medicine (TUSDM) attempts to address this gap through their Medically Complex Patient (MCP) Clinic. This project aimed to improve oral health outcomes by enhancing collaboration between dental professionals and occupational therapists (OTs). A needs assessment identified barriers to accessing dental care and challenges in oral hygiene performance, informing an interactive learning module developed and implemented for a pilot group of TUSDM faculty (N=6). Faculty noted increased confidence in understanding the role of OTs, identifying the need for OT evaluation, and referring patients to OT services post-module. A summary report urged further interprofessional collaboration through future OT integration within TUSDM.
Key Words:
Occupational Therapy, Dentistry, Interprofessional Collaboration