Implementation of an online treatment planning exercise focused on vulnerable patient groups

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic presented formidable challenges in our ability to impart in-person extra-mural clinical training, including the Geriatric and Special Needs Program, to a group of 20 fourth-year dental students. A new course delivery format was developed wherein students used a validated Rapid Oral Health Deterioration (ROHD) risk assessment tool to critically appraise clinical case information relating to a young adult with special needs. In the alternative virtual educational approach that was created, students applied an interprofessional practice concept leading to patient treatment planning outcomes. Providing adequate information, additional reading resources, a response template, clear instructions and a process-oriented assessment policy all ensured a good level of participation from students in the alternative learning format. An association was noted between students' staging of risk for ROHD and their subsequent recommendations for treatment.