Evaluation of governmental oral health-care infrastructure in the state of Haryana.

Health system should be organized to meet the needs of entire population of the nation. Oral diseases are the most common of the chronic diseases, but there are few efficient dental care systems to cope with these problems. The present cross-sectional study was conducted among 135 dental care units of various primary health centers, community health centers, and general hospitals existing in the state to evaluate the government oral health-care infrastructure in Haryana. Data regarding provision of water and electricity supply, dental workforce and their qualification, number and type of instruments in the dental operatory unit, etc., were collected on a structured format. There is a shortfall in infrastructure and significant problem with the adequacy of working facilities. This can prove to be a big hurdle in the provision of adequate oral health care to people with greatest health-care needs. A great deal of effort is required to harmonize the oral health-care delivery system.

Status of governmental oral health care delivery system in Haryana, India.

BACKGROUND: Health system should be organized to meet the needs of entire population of the nation. This means that the state has the direct responsibility for the health of its population and improving the quality of life through research, education, and provision of health services. The present study was conducted to evaluate the government oral health care delivery system in Haryana, India. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The present cross-sectional study was conducted among 135 dental care units (DCUs) of various primary health centers (PHCs), community health centers (CHCs), and general hospitals (GHs) existing in the state by employing a cluster random sampling technique. Data regarding the provision of water and electricity supply, dental man power and their qualification, number and type of instruments in the dental operatory unit, etc., were collected on a structured format. Statistical analysis was done using number and percentages (SPSS package version 16). RESULTS: Alternative source of electricity (generator) existed in only a few of health centers. About 93.4% (155) of the staff were graduates (BDS) and 6.6% (11) were postgraduates (MDS). Ultrasonic scaler was available at dental units of 83.1% (64) of PHCs, 73.1% (19) of CHCs, and 93.8% (30) of GHs. Patient drapes were provided in 48.1% (65) of the DCUs, doctor's aprons were provided in 74.1% (100) of the places. CONCLUSION: There is a shortfall in infrastructure and significant problem with the adequacy of working facilities. A great deal of effort is required to harmonize the oral health care delivery system.