A Mixed Methods Study of the Oral Health Knowledge and Practice of Community Health Practitioners

Abstract

Background: Community Health Practitioners' (CHPs) are first in line to render health services at the Primary Health Centres at rural communities. This study aimed to determine the oral health knowledge and explore the roles CHPs play in promoting oral health in underserved communities.

Methods: Fifty-six practitioners were purposefully selected from a roster of Community Health Practitioners (CHPs) assigned to Ife North local government area in Osun State, Nigeria. Oral health knowledge was assessed using a 15-item self-administered questionnaire both before and after training in oral health promotion. The Mann-Whitney U test was employed to analyze knowledge scores, with the level of significance set at P<0.05. Three focus groups delved into the roles of CHPs in oral health promotion, and their responses were analyzed according to the operationalized topic guide.

Result: The baseline oral health knowledge was 10.0 (±1.77), and post-test knowledge increased to 11.44 (±1.41), indicating a statistically significant difference (p<0.001). Despite differing initial knowledge levels, Community Health Practitioners (CHPs) conveyed a willingness to contribute to oral health promotion. This commitment included integrating oral health education into general health education, conducting community mobilization efforts, and providing support for urgent oral care. Identified barriers encompassed challenges such as insufficient funding, inadequate transportation, and logistical issues.

Conclusion: To enhance the oral health knowledge of Community Health Practitioners (CHPs), there is a need for additional training sessions. Despite facing inherent barriers, the CHPs demonstrated a willingness to engage in downstream oral health promotion activities.