Influence of Oral Health Literacy and Attitudes on Dental Service Utilization Decisions among Hospital Personnel in Chattrakarn Hospital, Chattrakarn District, Phitsanulok Province
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64960/srimedj.v40i6.269286Keywords:
decision-making, oral health literacy, attitudes toward oral health careAbstract
Background and Objectives: Oral health is an essential determinant of overall health and quality of life. Understanding the factors that influence the decision to utilize dental services among healthcare personnel is crucial for planning effective interventions. This study aimed to examine personal factors, oral health literacy, and attitudes toward oral health, as well as their influence on decision-making regarding dental service utilization among personnel at Chattrakarn Hospital, Phitsanulok Province.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 246 hospital personnel, with a sample of 151 selected using simple random sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering personal factors, oral health literacy, attitudes toward oral health, and decision-making about dental service utilization. The instrument showed content validity indices ranging from 0.67–1.00 and Cronbach’s alpha coefficients of 0.96 (oral health literacy), 0.87 (attitudes), and 0.96 (decision-making). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression.
Results: Most respondents were female (69.5%) with a mean age of 38.79±10.15 years. Oral health literacy (3.78±0.57), attitudes toward oral health (4.28±0.41), and decision-making regarding dental service utilization (4.17±0.45) were all at high levels. After adjusting for other variables, oral health literacy (p=0.036) and attitudes toward oral health (p<0.001) were found to significantly influence decision-making. The model explained 46% of the variance in dental service utilization (Adjusted R² = 0.46, p<0.05).
Conclusion: Oral health literacy and positive attitudes toward oral health play a critical role in influencing dental service utilization among hospital personnel. Strategies and interventions that strengthen knowledge and attitudes toward oral health could enhance dental service use, ultimately improving oral health outcomes and quality of life.
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