51 - Oral Health Providers Perceptions of Role as Vaccinators in Medical Dental Integration Project

Abstract:

Objective: HPV is found in over 70% of oropharyngeal cancers and oral health providers have potential to increase protection against oncogenic strains by promoting vaccination. This project aimed to evaluate perceptions of oral health providers and staff in a federally qualified healthcare system on their role in educating and vaccinating against the human papillomavirus (HPV).

Methods: A cross-sectional self-administered 34 item adapted validated survey was conducted in a sample of 44 dental providers, hygienists, and dental staff within six dental clinics. Clinics were participating in a project to provide same day HPV vaccinations utilizing medical-dental integration (MDI). Results were analyzed on a 3-5 point Likert scale.

Results: 88.6% of all staff were “very willing” or “willing” to participate in a referral program to primary care for vaccination. 95.0% of surveyed dentists and hygienists believed discussing the link between HPV and oropharyngeal cancer fell within their practice scope (N = 20) and 65.0% of this group felt administering the vaccine itself was within their scope.

Conclusions: While most staff were willing to recommend the HPV vaccine to adolescents in their practice, there were concerns over education and lack of time. The high level of support for vaccination in this project may be a result of an existing HPV vaccine MDI program that instills a sense of enthusiasm in staff. Integrated health systems are exceptionally fit to utilize MDI to empower oral health providers to vaccinate within their practice and to inspire policy changes allowing dentists and hygienists to administer vaccines.

Source of Funding: HRSA Promoting Pediatric Primary Prevention Challenge Funds