Exploring a client journey from drug-health to oral-health services

Abstract

Introduction: People with substance use disorder (SUD) have poor oral health (OH) compared to the general population. They have a high need for dental services, however due to medical and social reasons find accessing services challenging. Our case report examines an innovative integrated care approach. Case Description: In February 2023, Drug Health Services saw a 29-year-old Australian woman. The social worker assessed her OH using the new screening tool. She reported dental pain and had not seen a dentist in a year. The patient had a history of child protection, and familial child sexual abuse. She smoked Cannabis daily to self-manage anxiety, was unemployed, in social housing with three children under three years old and received government income support. She expressed significant dental anxiety due to her previous traumatic experiences.The social worker team referred the patient and provided a comprehensive handover to the dental team. An appointment was coordinated between the two services in consultation with the patient. Social worker accompanied her for emotional support and looked after her children. The dentist addressed immediate dental complaint and coordinated subsequent appointments with the assistance of the social worker and patient.In the post-appointment patient experience survey, she expressed feeling respected, consulted, involved in her care and gained confidence to attend future appointments. Discussion: Inclusion of OH screening in DHS and a coordinated referral process between the two services resulted in a positive patient experience and outcome. Conclusion/Clinical Significance: A model of integrated care with a multidisciplinary approach is needed to deliver sustainable positive outcomes for people with SUD.