Ryan White 2012 Grantee Meeting

Despite considerable effort, no show rates are higher for dental than medical visits. New patient appointments have the highest no show rate (they can run as high as 40%). In 2006 a project was launched to increase access to dental care in our HIV community by affecting a culture change starting with our medical providers. An extensive campaign was implemented to imbed dental in the health care service delivery system; obtain feedback from clients regarding their needs, attitude, and beliefs surrounding dental service; and provide dental education to providers and clients alike.

Learning Objectives:

• By the end of this session participants will be able to discuss and understand the current knowledge and gaps around linking clients with HIV in rural settings into dental care and treatment.
• By the end of this session participants will be able to identify key program components which are associated with better linkage and retention.
• By the end of this session participants will understand how to building rapport with medical providers, conduct needs assessment surveys, and educate providers and patients can help to increase their show rate particularly in the new patient population.