Inclusion of a program of instruction in care of the disabled in a dental school curriculum

Lack of practitioner training is considered a major reason for dental neglect of disabled persons. The feasibility of instruction in the care of the disabled for dental and dental hygiene students at the undergraduate level was demonstrated in a prototype program encompassing a continuum of didactic courses, clinical experiences in extramural and intramural settings, inservice training and continuing education, interdisciplinary activities, and evaluative research. Successful implementation of such a program required developing and using appropriate support systems, such as instructional materials, social services, public relations, and monitoring of care delivery. A format combining specific courses with inclusion of disability subject matter in existing courses appeared to be advantageous in intergrating the program into the dental curriculum. Evaluation data indicated the value of undergraduate training in improving access to dental care for the disabled patient.