Employment and utilization of dental hygienists in Minnesota healthcare facilities.

This study surveyed a representative sample from the entire listing of accredited hospitals and licensed nursing homes in Minnesota with bed accommodations of 100 or more. The purpose of the study was to determine (1) the current providers of oral healthcare to patients/residents in the selected facilities; (2) the employment and utilization of dental hygienists in these facilities; and (3) reasons for not employing a dental hygienist. A questionnaire was designed and sent to 147 facilities in November 1986 with a follow-up in January 1987. A total of 118 questionnaires were returned, resulting in a response rate of 80.3%. The results revealed that less than half of the facilities utilized a dental hygienist. In the majority of facilities surveyed, consulting dentists, registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, and nurse's aides were identified as those responsible for providing oral healthcare services. Insufficient funds was the primary reason identified by these facilities for not employing a dental hygienist. Dental hygienists employed in healthcare facilities provided therapeutic treatment and oral hygiene education services to staff and patients. In comparison, visiting dental hygienists tended to perform more staff training than patient education or therapeutic services. Most respondents indicated that a dental hygienist employed by their facility would improve the oral health status of their patients or residents. A large number of respondents appeared to be uncertain of the role of a dental hygienist in their healthcare facilities. Educational efforts are needed to increase the understanding of healthcare administrators and the public of the benefits of employing dental hygienists.