Patient satisfaction at rural outreach dental camps - a one year report.

INTRODUCTION: Dental health care satisfaction is an integral component of the dental healthcare professional's obligation to society. Patient satisfaction is becoming an increasingly important indicator of quality of dental care. Therefore, the present study was designed to evaluate patient satisfaction at various rural outreach dental camps. METHODS: Between January 2006 and December 2006 data from 551 treated patients at weekly and monthly outreach camps was obtained using questionnaire as a survey instrument. The questionnaire consisted of nine questions, measuring patient satisfaction level over a five-point Likert scale. RESULTS: The results showed that overall mean patient satisfaction with the care received ranged from satisfactory to excellent. The manner of the dental surgeon, dental assistant and other dental staff was observed to be the highest rated category, followed by the initial dental check up at the camp. CONCLUSION: The overall high level of patient satisfaction reflected the dental team's approach of responsibility and accountability of towards the target population. In outreach dental treatment programs, comprehensive oral health care with adequate review of patients should ensure satisfaction in patients.