The uneven playing field: provider participation and regional disparities in oral health examination rates in Korea

• 발행기관: 한국역학회
• 저자명: Hye-Lim Hong Nam-Hee Kim
• 간행물 정보: 『Epidemiology and Health』47, 1~11쪽, 전체 11쪽
• 주제분류: 의약학 > 면역학
• 파일형태: PDF
• 발행일자: 2025.01.31

국문 초록

OBJECTIVES: This study investigated regional disparities in adult oral health examination rates in Korea, despite free oral health screenings by the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS). It focused on the impact of provider factors, such as the availability of dental clinics and non-dental institutions. METHODS: A cross-sectional analysis of 2022 data from 229 districts was conducted. The dependent variable was the adult oral health examination rate, while independent variables included provider factors, community health status, lifestyle, demographic, and socioeconomic characteristics. Descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation, and multiple regression analyses identified significant predictors. RESULTS: Non-metropolitan areas had higher oral health examination rates (27.4%) than metropolitan areas (25.3%). Correlation analysis showed the general health examination rate (r=0.583) and the number of screening institutions (r=0.234) were the strongest predictors (p<0.001). Regression analysis showed a 1% increase in general health examination rates led to a 1.44% rise in oral health examination rates (p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Despite NHIS policies, significant regional disparities persist, showing that providing screenings alone is insufficient. Integrating oral health screenings with general health examinations is necessary. Policymakers must promote collaboration between dental and non-dental providers to ensure equitable, integrated health services, enhancing preventive care and reducing disparities.

목차

INTRODUCTION

MATERIALS AND METHODS

RESULTS

DISCUSSION

NOTES

REFERENCES

키워드

Community health Delivery of health care Oral health Regional disparities