An Analysis of the Performance of Dental Health Professionals on Dental and Oral Health Services at a Private Hospital Dental Clinic in Medan

Abstract

Oral and dental health issues remain a major issue in efforts to improve public health in Indonesia. The importance of dental health workers in providing quality services is demonstrated by the high prevalence of dental disease and low public awareness of the importance of maintaining dental and oral hygiene. The purpose of this study was to evaluate how dental health workers provide oral health services at the Dental Polyclinic of a Private Hospital in Medan. This study was conducted qualitatively with ten informants dental specialists, general dentists, and patients. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, observations, and documentation studies, then analyzed using thematic analysis by Braun & Clarke (2006). The results of the study indicate that the performance of dental health workers generally meets professional standards, particularly in compliance with operational procedures and clinical skills. However, there are still obstacles such as limited radiology facilities, high workloads, and inefficient administrative systems. Factors that influence performance include individual factors (experience, motivation), environmental factors (facilities, infrastructure, management), and psychological factors (satisfaction and appreciation). Good performance has been shown to contribute to patient satisfaction and service quality. This study recommends improving supporting facilities, optimizing management systems, providing effective communication training, and providing awards for medical personnel to improve the quality of dental services at Dental Polyclinics at Private Hospitals in Medan.