UCSF

Background

Human Papillomavirus associated oropharyngeal cancers have been on the rise in the past three decades. Dentists are uniquely positioned to discuss vaccination programs with their patients. The goal of this project was to assess the readiness of dentists in the state of Indiana in being able to administer vaccines.

Methods

An 18-question online survey was sent to licensed dentists in the state of Indiana. Mantel-Haenszel chi-square tests, followed by multivariable analyses using ordinal logistic regression were conducted to assess providers' comfort levels and willingness to administer vaccines in both children and adults, by provider characteristics (practice type, location, and years in practice).

Results

A total of 569 completed surveys were included for data analyses. Most dentists (58%) responded positively when asked if they would consider offering vaccinations in their office, if allowed by state legislation. In general, dentists working in academic settings and federally qualified health centers were more agreeable to offering vaccination in their practice. The level of agreement with "Dentists should be allowed to administer HPV, Influenza, Hep A and COVID 19 vaccines" for both children and adults decreased with increased years of practice. More than half of the respondents (55%) agreed that dental providers were competent to administer vaccines and needed no further training.

Conclusion

The study results suggest the willingness of dentists in the state of Indiana to offer vaccinations in their practices, if allowed by legislation.

Practical implications

Dental providers can be a unique resource to add to workforce for improving vaccination efforts.