Absenteeism in dental care: a qualitative analysis in a family health unit in Bahia

Abstract

The aim of this study to analyze the reasons for absenteeism in dental care among users of a Family Health Unit. This is a qualitative, descriptive, and exploratory study carried out with 13 adult users of the oral health service at a Family Health Strategy unit. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews, which were recorded and transcribed in full. The textual content was processed using the IRaMuTeQ software (Interface of R) and the Descending Hierarchical Classification technique was used. Four classes emerged: reasons for seeking dental care; influence of appointment scheduling on absenteeism; impacts of absenteeism on oral health; and need for treatment and self-perception of oral health. Absenteeism from dental appointments is mainly due to work schedules, forgetfulness, fear of the dentist and prioritizing other personal issues. There is a need for strategies such as extending opening hours, sending appointments reminders, and raising awareness among users about the importance of oral health.

Author Biographies

Evelly Victoria Costa Fonseca Santos, Universidade Estadual do Sudoeste da Bahia (Campus – Jequié)

Graduanda em Odontologia na Universidade Estadual do Sudoeste da Bahia (Campus – Jequié)

Renata Sousa Rocha, Universidade Estadual do Sudoeste da Bahia (Campus – Jequié)

Graduanda em Odontologia na Universidade Estadual do Sudoeste da Bahia (Campus – Jequié)

Cristiane Alves Paz de Carvalho, Universidade Estadual do Sudoeste da Bahia (Campus – Jequié)

Doutora em Ciências pela Faculdade de Odontologia de Bauru (FOB/USP). Professora Titular do Curso de Odontologia da Universidade Estadual do Sudoeste da Bahia (UESB).

Fábio Silva de Carvalho, Universidade Estadual do Sudoeste da Bahia

Doutor em Ciências pela Faculdade de Odontologia de Bauru (FOB/USP). Professor Titular do Curso de Odontologia da Universidade Estadual do Sudoeste da Bahia (Campus – Jequié)

How to Cite
Santos, E. V. C. F., Rocha, R. S., Carvalho, C. A. P. de, & Carvalho, F. S. de. (1). Absenteeism in dental care: a qualitative analysis in a family health unit in Bahia. REVISTA CEREUS, 17(2), 379-394. Retrieved from https://ojs.unirg.edu.br/index.php/1/article/view/5681