Development of a community-based oral healthcare model for Thai dependent older people.
OBJECTIVE
The objective of this study was to develop a community-based oral healthcare model for Thai dependent older people in Tambon Tha Pla Duk, Amphur Mae Tha, Lamphun Province, in the north of Thailand.


METHODS
Participatory action research was conducted, taking an interdisciplinary approach. Data were collected through focus group discussions with key stakeholders in health care of older people in Amphur Mae Tha. Supplementary data were also collected with the stakeholders through a triangulation of in-depth interviews, a self-administered questionnaire, participant observations with field notes and a literature review. The model was subsequently refined and checked by the stakeholders. The data from all processes were coded, grouped, interpreted and thematically analysed for emerging themes and patterns, independently by the researcher (TP).


RESULTS
This model consists of two key components: (i) primary care and (ii) other related factors. Primary care: This model provides a strong linkage between home, community and healthcare services to foster strong collaborations with dependent older people. This is the central focus of the model. Other related factors consist of the following: (i) Thai social norms and culture, (ii) the need for equity, (iii) the need for effectiveness, (iv) the need for efficiency and (v) the need for quality (that is, holistic, integrated and continuous). Finally, interdisciplinary collaboration was a strategy used to achieve improved quality of oral health care.


CONCLUSIONS
A community-based care model to enhance oral health of dependent older people was developed for potential implementation and submitted to the stakeholders at the location of the study.
Family and Community Dentistry Department, Faculty of Dentistry, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand.|Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, Thailand.
Tipruthai
T
Prayoonwong
Family and Community Dentistry Department, Faculty of Dentistry, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand.
Tidawan
T
Wiwatkhunupakan
Department of Medical Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand.
Duangruedee
D
Lasuka
Family and Community Dentistry Department, Faculty of Dentistry, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand. patcharawana@gmail.com.|Center of Excellent in Dental Public Health, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand. patcharawana@gmail.com.
Patcharawan
P
Srisilapanan
D000368:Aged; D003695:Delivery of Health Care; D017144:Focus Groups; D006801:Humans; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013785:Thailand
community-based care; dependent older people; interdisciplinary collaboration; oral health care; participatory action research