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Factors associated with reported need for dental care among people who are homeless using assistance programs. Spec Care Dentist 2010;30(4):146-50

Date

07/14/2010

Pubmed ID

20618780

DOI

10.1111/j.1754-4505.2010.00145.x

Scopus ID

2-s2.0-77958009047 (requires institutional sign-in at Scopus site)   5 Citations

Abstract

A retrospective secondary data analysis of the National Survey of Homeless Assistance Providers and Clients database was conducted to identify the demographic characteristics and correlates associated with reported need for dental care among people who are homeless in the United States. Overall, 10% of people who were homeless reported that dental care was their most needed service. Of these, 17% had a dental visit within the previous 12 months, 52% were racial/ethnic minorities, 76% lived in a central city, and 26% were veterans. The unadjusted odds for reporting a need for dental care was highest among veterans who were homeless and those whose last dental visit occurred more than 12 months ago. Compared to nonveterans who were homeless, veterans had twice the adjusted odds for reporting a need for dental care. The adjusted odds for reporting a need for dental care were lowest for those with dental insurance. Evaluation of the data suggests that dental insurance was associated with reporting lower need for dental care. Veterans who were homeless reported higher odds for dental care. Strengthening existing oral health-care programs sensitive to the needs of people who are homeless may improve their oral health and reduce their dental-disease-related morbidity.

Author List

Okunseri C, Girgis D, Self K, Jackson S, McGinley EL, Tarima SS

Authors

Emily L. McGinley Biostatistician III in the Center for Advancing Population Science department at Medical College of Wisconsin
Christopher Okunseri DDS,MS Associate Professor and Director in the Clinical Services department at Marquette University
Sergey S. Tarima PhD Associate Professor in the Institute for Health and Equity department at Medical College of Wisconsin




MESH terms used to index this publication - Major topics in bold

Adult
Dental Care
Female
Humans
Insurance, Dental
Male
Middle Aged
Minority Groups
Needs Assessment
Public Assistance
Retrospective Studies
Rural Population
Sex Factors
Suburban Population
United States
Urban Population
Veterans
Vulnerable Populations
Young Adult