Dental care pathways for Geriatric Populations in ASEAN Countries

Principal Investigator

Prof. Dr. Noor Hayaty Abu Kasim
Dean, Wellness Research Cluster, UM
 nhayaty(at)um.edu.my
 +603-7967 7809

Executive Summary

A clinical pathway is defined as a method used for patient-care management of a well-defined group of patients during a well-defined time (De Bleser et al., 2006). ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) aims to deepen and broaden economic integration among ASEAN member counties with free flow of goods, services, investment, capital and skilled labour (Association of Southeast Asian Nations, 2012). As described in the AEC Blueprint (2012), free flow of services is one the key element in realizing AEC, among which is the delivery of dental health care.

This research aims to investigate the current dental care pathway for geriatric patients in selected ASEAN countries namely, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia. It also aimed to derive key characteristics of each of the geriatric clinical care pathways used. Qualitative and quantitative research methodology will be used for data collection and analysis. The perceptions of dentist on current geriatric dental care pathway will also be assessed. The geriatric populations and their caregivers will be interviewed to have a better understanding on their perceptions towards dental services received.  The results of this research will serve as important reference document for dental practitioners and policy makers in ASEAN countries for alignment of dental care pathway for geriatric patients in the region.

The objectives of this project are:

1. To investigate the dental care pathways use for geriatric populations among ASEAN countries
2. To derive key characteristics of geriatric care pathways among ASEAN countries
3. To have better understanding on the geriatric care pathways among ASEAN countries in preparation for AEC

To have better understanding on the perception of geriatric populations and their caregivers on dental care service available