Parental perceptions of a school dental service in Australia

Data on parental perceptions of the School Dental Service in Australia are scarce. The aim of this study was to investigate parental attitudes towards the School Dental Service based in Victoria and to explore differences between parents who had recently used the service (SDS users) and those who had elected not to use it during the previous 12 months (SDS non-users).

1,060 questionnaires were distributed through primary schools that had recently been offered treatment through the School Dental Service. Questions were asked about quality of care, cost, access to services, and continuity of care. The response rate was 65%.

The study sample consisted of 692 parents of primary school-age children.

Statistical tests revealed significant differences between the two groups of parents. Those who chose not to use the service had greater concerns about the quality of care provided (P<0.001) and were more likely to perceive that the cost of $25 for a course of treatment was too high (P<0.05). In both groups combined, 68% of parents believed they did not have enough knowledge about the service, 79% felt that more appointments should be available out of school hours, and 93% felt that treatment should be available on a six-monthly basis.

The results of this study suggest that parents' choice in utilising the School Dental Service in Victoria is strongly related to their level of perception and satisfaction.