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Changing dentists' knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors relating to AIDS: a controlled educational intervention
B Gerbert1, B Maguire, V Badner
1Department of Dental Public Health and Hygiene, School of Dentistry, University of California, San Francisco 94143-0754.
Journal of the American Dental Association (1939)
|June 1, 1988
Summary
An educational intervention improved dentists' knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors regarding acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). This program enhanced willingness to treat patients with AIDS and improved diagnostic skills.
Area of Science:
- Dental Public Health
- Infectious Disease Education
Background:
- The AIDS epidemic necessitates informed healthcare professionals.
- Dentists require specific knowledge and positive attitudes towards treating patients with AIDS.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate an educational intervention aimed at improving dentists' knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors concerning AIDS.
- To assess the impact of the intervention on dentists' willingness to treat patients with AIDS and their diagnostic capabilities.
Main Methods:
- A multi-component educational intervention was implemented.
- Components included computerized feedback, periodic bulletins, and expert teleconference calls.
- A control group was used for comparison.
Main Results:
- The intervention group showed significant improvements compared to the control group.
- Outcomes included increased willingness to treat persons with AIDS.
- Improved identification of human immunodeficiency virus lesions and enhanced knowledge of AIDS were observed.
- Completeness of intraoral and extraoral examinations also improved.
Conclusions:
- Educational interventions can effectively enhance dentists' response to the AIDS epidemic.
- Targeted education improves clinical practice and patient care for individuals with AIDS.