Participants should be aware of the following financial/non-financial relationships: . Namrata Bhanat, BDS, MPH, MBA, MSISS: I do not have any relevant financial / non-financial relationships with any proprietary interests.. Sangeeta Gajendra, DDS, MPH, MS: I do not have any relevant financial / non-financial relationships with any proprietary interests.
Abstract: Objective: To evaluate a school-based dental program in Rochester, NY to ensure sustainability of the program as part of continuous quality improvement process. Method: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention framework for evaluation was used as a guide to carry out a baseline evaluation. Reports from the electronic health records system were used for patient demographics and outcomes in 2018-19 school year. Feedback from key stakeholders was obtained using a self-administered survey. The financial reports were used for comparing the operational costs of the program comprising of mobile vans (2 trailer types- SMILEmobile#3, #4 and 1 drivable- SMILEmobile #5 and 1 fixed school based (DMJF) dental clinic. Results: The program provided comprehensive dental services to 1650 children from 19 schools in Rochester, NY; including 2205 diagnostic, 2328 preventive and 513 restorative services. Both revenue and cost per visit were highest for SMILEmobile #4. DMJF dental clinic was operating at a marginal profit and the SMILEmobile at a loss. Among the staff who responded to the survey, 90% reported adequacy for the clinic appearance, condition, equipment, and dental supplies and inadequacy with the number of dental assistants, clerical support, and dentists. More than 90% enjoyed working at the clinic and 33% reported not feeling safe due to violence in the surrounding neighborhoods. Conclusion: Key focus areas identified for program improvement were collaboration, safety, and staff retention. Efforts are needed to develop strategies to meet the operating cost for the SMILEmobile to continue rendering comprehensive dental services to children in Rochester.
