02 - 02 Asynchronous Teledentistry in Rural School-Based Oral Health Interventions: Lessons Learned

Description: Asynchronous teledentistry was integrated into two rural school-based oral health prevention programs in Eastern North Carolina. On-site public health hygienists record radiographs, intraoral photos, and clinical notes on program enrollees that are stored and forwarded to off-site dentists for review via electronic health records. Upon record review, dentists provide treatment and referral recommendations. In less than 5 years, the programs have seen over 1300 patients while utilizing asynchronous teledentistry. Benefits of using teledentistry have included increased efficiency, reduced cost, workforce optimization, and reduced transportation barriers. Limitations to its use have included technological barriers (i.e. inadequate internet access, equipment malfunctions, and provider skills), timely chart review, limitations of virtual assessments, interpretation of practice act rules and regulations, and difficulty with proper filing of claims. We conclude that using asynchronous teledentistry in rural school-based programs can be an excellent way to improve program workflow and sustainability, while also reducing barriers to dental care for vulnerable children. However, the integration of this service is more complex than it may initially seem. Challenges often arise from hardware, software, or internet malfunctions. Additionally, state rules and laws must be carefully examined and interpreted, providers must be properly trained, and filing of insurance claims must be meticulous. Knowing these limitations has allowed for program modifications to improve the use of teledentistry in rural settings and continue to reduce barriers for access to dental care.

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Funding: The Blue Cross and Blue Shield Foundation of North Carolina (Grant #217259-671411), The Duke Endowment (Grant #217569-671411), The Delta Dental Foundation (Grant #217604-671411)