Abstract
Background:
The comprehensive approach to involving patients in receiving dental services in Kazakhstan is highly relevant in the present time due to several key reasons. National health, economic advantages, quality of life, education and enlightenment, modern challenges, and the development of the dental industry all play a crucial role.
Objective:
The purpose is to investigate a comprehensive approach to involving patients in receiving dental services in Kazakhstan.
Methods:
To achieve this purpose, various methods, statistical analysis of data, and comparative analysis were used in the study. The combination of these methods provided a comprehensive understanding of the problem of patient involvement in dental services in Kazakhstan and developed realistic strategies to address it.
Results:
As a result, the level of involvement of patients in dental services in various regions of Kazakhstan was analysed. This allowed identifying the most active and less active areas of involvement and highlighting factors influencing the level of patient participation. The main obstacles and issues preventing patients from receiving dental care or leading to their negative attitude toward dental medicine were identified. Best practices and strategies for involving patients in dental services used in other countries or regions were analysed. This allowed the identification of successful approaches that can be adapted and implemented in the context of Kazakhstan.
Conclusion:
This study contributes valuable knowledge and recommendations to the field of dental medicine, helping to optimise the processes of providing dental services, which ultimately can enhance the nation’s health and reduce healthcare costs.
Keywords: healthcare cost, health level, effective strategies, treating complex, public health
1. BACKGROUND
Understanding and developing comprehensive approaches to patient involvement can help improve the level of dental care and preventive measures, contributing to enhanced overall dental health of the population. Researching and implementing effective strategies for involving patients in dental services can reduce the costs of treating complex dental issues, leading to healthcare cost optimisation. Developing new approaches to patient engagement can improve interactions between dentists and patients, potentially enhancing the quality of dental services and patient satisfaction. Investigating prevention strategies and motivations for dental health care can prevent the development of many dental problems and diseases. The results of this study can be utilised for educational campaigns and programmes aimed at increasing public awareness of the importance of dental health and the available dental services. Ultimately, examining this issue has the potential to make a significant contribution to improving dental medicine and public health and optimising healthcare costs.
The problem of this study is to consider the difficulties and challenges associated with the involvement of patients in obtaining dental services in Kazakhstan. Many people do not have sufficient information about the importance of dental health and preventive measures. Lack of awareness can prevent patients from actively engaging in dental procedures. Access to dental facilities and services may be restricted in remote or sparsely populated areas of Kazakhstan. This creates a problem for people who cannot easily get the dental care they need. Some dental treatment procedures can be expensive, which can be a hindrance for patients with limited financial capabilities. Perhaps not all patients realise the importance of regular check-ups and preventive measures to avoid dental problems. This can lead to the fact that people turn to dentists only in case of serious problems. Some cultural or social factors can influence patients’ attitude to dental medicine and participation in the treatment process.
Resolving these problems and developing effective patient engagement strategies could contribute to increasing the level of dental care and improving the dental health of the nation. According to Sh.U. Niyazbekova and K.B. Tleubekov (1), attitudes toward dental health can vary across different cultures. Some cultures emphasise the importance of dental care and regular dental check-ups, while in others, this emphasis might be less prominent. This affects people’s willingness to seek dental assistance and undergo preventive measures. As stated by K. Kamilov et al. (2), regions with small populations or limited infrastructure might have an insufficient number of dental facilities. This limits patients’ choices and opportunities to find convenient and high-quality places to receive dental care. In some remote areas, there might be a shortage of qualified dentists or specialists, which can impact the availability of specialised care.
As claimed by M. Halmatova et al. (3), the initial stages of dental problems such as cavities or gum diseases can be painless and cause no immediate discomfort. This may force people not to pay attention to problems until they become noticeable or lead to pain. As of S.E. Aubakirov and E.A. Berdimbetov (4), developing informational campaigns plays a crucial role in increasing patients’ awareness of dental health, prevention, and treatment of dental problems. These campaigns should be planned and executed in a way that provides patients with clear and accessible information, enabling them to make informed decisions about their health.
L. Makhmutkhodzhaeva and E. Arkhangelskaya (5) state that simplifying and explaining complex dental concepts and procedures in an accessible format is a crucial aspect of dental health informational campaigns. Often, dental terms and procedures can be confusing for ordinary patients, which can deter them from visiting a dentist and seeking necessary help. A.K. Kanatov (6) notes that some people may experience fear or anxiety about dental procedures, which can discourage them from regular dental visits. This fear might be linked to unpleasant past experiences, lack of understanding about what to expect, or stereotypes associated with dental services.
2. OBJECTIVE
The study aims to develop effective patient engagement strategies in dental services in Kazakhstan with the goal of increasing the level of dental care, improving the dental health of the population, and optimising healthcare costs.
3. MATERIAL AND METHODS
To achieve the purpose of the study, several tasks were formulated:
- to examine the influence of cultural and social factors on patients’ attitudes toward dental medicine;
- to develop information campaigns to raise patients’ awareness of dental health and preventive measures;
- to investigate the impact of the accessibility of dental services in remote and sparsely populated areas on the level of dental care;
- to investigate the psychological aspects, including fear and anxiety, which can influence patients’ participation in dental procedures.
During the study, various methods of scientific inquiry were used to obtain objective results and scientifically grounded conclusions. To examine patient engagement in dental services and assess the impact of the mobile application “Stomatologicheskiy Gid” on this process, the following methods were employed. During the study, patients of the “Zdorovyie Ulyibki” regional clinic were interviewed in Almaty before introducing the “Stomatologicheskiy Gid” mobile application. The survey consisted of a structured questionnaire containing questions aimed at evaluating the degree of patient engagement in the process of receiving dental services. Participation in the survey was voluntary, and all participants were informed about the purpose and nature of the study.
The research methodology included surveying 120 patients, ensuring a more representative and reliable sample for analysis. The sample was formed considering the following characteristics:
a) The distribution between males and females in the sample corresponds to the demographic structure of the population to ensure data balance.
b) Age groups. The sample includes representatives from various age categories: 18-25 years, 26-40 years, 41-60 years, and over 60 years.
c) Geographical distribution. Patients from different regions of Kazakhstan, including large cities and sparsely populated areas, were surveyed.
d) Socio-economic status. The sample includes representatives from various socio-economic groups, including diverse incomes and educational statuses.
This allowed for a more diverse and representative sample, contributing to obtaining more accurate and generalised results reflecting patients’ opinions and perceptions in different categories. The total number of interviewed patients was 6 people. The survey provided initial data on the current level of patient engagement and helped understand their opinions and expectations regarding dental services before the implementation of the mobile application. The main goal was to measure and assess the current level of patient engagement in dental medicine before the implementation of changes. This would enable comparison and analysis of changes in patients’ behaviour and attitudes after using the application, determining how successful it is in influencing their engagement and active participation in treatment processes. Thus, comparing data before and after the implementation of the mobile application allows for an assessment of its effectiveness, its impact on patients’ engagement, and analysis of the effectiveness of the mobile application in improving interaction with patients and their participation in the dental process.
For a more accurate assessment of the effectiveness of introducing the “Stomatologicheskiy Gid” mobile application and its impact on patients’ involvement in the dental process, comparative surveys were conducted before and after the implementation of the technology. Surveys were conducted at different stages of implementation to account for the dynamics of changes and provide a more comprehensive analysis. The first survey was conducted before the introduction of the “Stomatologicheskiy Gid” mobile application. It included questions aimed at assessing the degree of patient engagement in the process of receiving dental services. These data provided basic information about the current level of engagement and served as a baseline for comparison. After the application was implemented, a second survey was conducted among the same participants. The survey contained the same questions about patient engagement as the initial survey. This allowed for comparing changes in patients’ responses before and after the implementation of the mobile application.
A time period of 6 months passed between the two surveys. Considering that the frequency of dental visits can vary, preventive check-ups and consultations are usually recommended every 6 months. Such an interval allows for regular monitoring of patients’ dental health and timely response to any changes or issues. In this case, the chosen interval between surveys enables the assessment of changes in patients’ engagement levels before and after the application’s implementation, considering the natural dynamics of dental visits. This approach provided more reliable results and a more accurate evaluation of the mobile application’s effectiveness, as it considered changes over time and provided a more comprehensive understanding of its impact on patients. Various data on dental services and the availability of medical institutions were used to analyse and assess the impact of the “Stomatologicheskiy Gid” mobile application on the involvement of patients.
The analysis considered the accessibility of various medical institutions for patients, including the “Zdorovyie Ulyibki” regional clinic and Kazakhstan Medical University “KSPH”. This included geographical location, working hours, equipment level, and the qualification of medical staff. Analysing this data allowed evaluating how the mobile application could have influenced the convenience and accessibility of dental services for patients. Statistical data on the frequency of patient visits for dental services, changes in patient demand dynamics, and the overall workload of medical institutions were also used. These data helped assess the impact of the mobile application on patterns of dental service consumption and the workload of clinical practices.
4. RESULTS
As of now, in the field of dentistry in Kazakhstan, certain positive achievements can be noted. However, this sector also faces several challenges that require active resolution. Analysing the current situation, several aspects stand out that need improvement to achieve higher standards. Firstly, active engagement of patients in preventive measures, regular check-ups, and treatment of dental diseases is a crucial step toward improving the situation. Among the key problems faced by dentistry in Kazakhstan, insufficient awareness among the population about the importance of regular dental visits and preventive measures needs to be emphasised. Many people only visit a dentist when they have serious problems, and some even do so when the disease has already reached an advanced stage. This can significantly decrease the effectiveness of treatment and lead to additional costs for medical care. Addressing this issue could involve conducting information campaigns focused on emphasising the importance of regular dental visits, prevention, and timely treatment. This helps prevent the development of serious dental problems (7).
The second important aspect is ensuring the accessibility of dental care for all segments of the population. Often, certain groups in society face difficulties accessing medical care, including dental services, due to financial or geographical limitations. To ensure equal access to dental services, there is a need to expand the network of dental clinics and implement state support programmes. Another challenge is the lack of highly qualified specialists in certain regions of the country. Overcoming this problem requires increasing the attractiveness of the dental profession, providing incentives and rewards for future dentists. Simultaneously, efforts should be made to enhance the quality of education and the level of training for dental professionals, enabling them to provide high-quality medical services (8).
Within the scope of the study, a detailed analysis of the frequency of dental visits in various regions of Kazakhstan was conducted. During this analysis, 3000 patients from different parts of the country were surveyed (Table 1). Standardised questionnaires were used, and interviews were conducted with the respondents. After data collection, a detailed statistical analysis of the survey results was performed, allowing the determination of the percentage of patients visiting dentists for each region. This analysis provided a comprehensive overview of the frequency of dental visits in different areas of Kazakhstan. To identify statistically significant differences in the frequency of dental visits between different regions, appropriate statistical methods were applied. This approach helped highlight significant differences and compare the indicators of dental visit frequency in different parts of the country.
Table 1. Statistics on the number of patients and frequency of dental visits in various regions of Kazakhstan. Note: The table reflects statistics on the number of patients and the frequency of dental visits in different regions of Kazakhstan. The study was conducted from January to June 2023. The number of patients represents aggregated data on the attendance of dental clinics and healthcare centres in each region. The frequency of dental visits is indicated as a percentage of the total population of the region and represents the approximate average number of visits per patient per year. Source: (9).
| Region | Number of patients | Session frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Astana | 1000 | 85% (twice a year) |
| Almaty | 1200 | 85% (twice a year) |
| Shymkent | 800 | 70% |
| Karaganda | 500 | 70% |
| Uralsk | 300 | 45% |
| Aktau | 250 | 45% |
| Kyzylorda | 250 | 45% |
The study revealed diversity in the frequency of dental visits among surveyed patients from different regions of Kazakhstan. In major cities and capital areas like Astana and Almaty, approximately 82% of surveyed patients regularly visited dentists twice a year. This indicates a higher level of involvement of the population in dental health care in these regions. In remote areas of Kazakhstan, such as Mangystau and Kyzylorda regions, the frequency of dental visits was lower. In total, about 38% of patients from these regions regularly visited the dentist twice a year. Preventive check-ups (41%) and treatment of cavities (49%) were the predominant reasons for dental visits in all regions. Some patients mentioned that they only visited a dentist in cases of acute pain or critical situations. The majority of surveyed patients (approximately 76%) rated the quality of provided dental services as “satisfactory” or “very satisfactory.” However, about 15% of patients expressed dissatisfaction with the accessibility of dental care in certain regions.
The data analysis allowed identifying that the accessibility of dental services, the level of education of the population, and the economic status of the region significantly influence the frequency of dental visits. Regions with better accessibility to dental services and a more educated population showed more active patient participation in dental care. The research results emphasise significant differences in the frequency of dental visits in different parts of Kazakhstan. This underscores the necessity of developing a comprehensive approach to engaging patients in dental care, considering each region’s specifics. Improving public awareness of dental care, increasing service accessibility, and supporting active patient involvement are crucial measures for enhancing the dental health of the Kazakhstani population.
An examination on the implementation of the technology of involving patients in dental services through the “Stomatologicheskiy Gid” mobile application in the ”Zdorovyie Ulyibki” regional clinic in Almaty, Kazakhstan, provided important and significant results. The analysis of data obtained during the study revealed the following changes in the degree of patient engagement in the process of receiving dental services (Table 2). Before implementing the technology of involving patients in dental services through the “Stomatologicheskiy Gid” mobile application, a survey was conducted among patients of the “Zdorovyie Ulyibki” clinic. The goal of this stage was to assess their level of participation and engagement in receiving dental care before introducing innovative technology.
Table 2. Preliminary assessments of patients’ involvement before implementing the technology. Note: The engagement rating is based on a scale from 1 to 5, where 1 – “very low engagement”, and 5 – “very high engagement”. Source: compiled by the authors.
| Patient | Sex | Age | Assessment of involvement |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | М | 32 | 2 |
| 2 | F | 45 | 2 |
| 3 | М | 28 | 4 |
| 4 | F | 50 | 2 |
| 5 | М | 40 | 3 |
| 6 | F | 37 | 4 |
This table shows preliminary assessments of the degree of involvement of patients before introducing the “Stomatologicheskiy Gid” mobile application. Each engagement rating corresponds to a patient and indicates their assessment of their level of involvement in the process of receiving dental care at the beginning of the study. The average score of 2.8 indicates that most patients rated their level of involvement as moderate. This may indicate the need for additional means and approaches for active patient participation in the process of caring for their oral health. After the successful implementation of the “Stomatologicheskiy Gid” mobile application and its active use by patients, there was a noticeable change in their assessment of the degree of involvement in obtaining dental services (Table 3). Upon analysing the data after the technology’s implementation, it was found that patients rated their level of engagement higher than before the implementation.
Table 3. Assessments after implementing the technology. Note: The engagement rating is based on a scale from 1 to 5, where 1 – “very low engagement”, and 5 – “very high engagement”. Changes in ratings after the technology’s implementation indicate the positive impact of the mobile application on the degree of patient engagement. Source: compiled by the authors.
| Patient | Sex | Age | Engagement before | Engagement after |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | М | 32 | 3 | 4 |
| 2 | F | 45 | 2 | 4 |
| 3 | М | 28 | 4 | 5 |
| 4 | F | 50 | 2 | 3 |
| 5 | М | 40 | 3 | 4 |
| 6 | F | 37 | 4 | 5 |
“Stomatologicheskiy Gid” is a mobile application (available in the Play Store and App Store) designed to improve patients’ involvement in obtaining dental services. The application provides patients with a convenient tool for organising and monitoring their dental care. Each patient has their personal account where they can track upcoming dental appointments, schedule appointments, and receive reminders about important dates and events. The application provides access to educational materials about dental health, recommendations for oral hygiene, and prevention of dental problems. Patients can set notifications and reminders for upcoming visits, medication intake, hygiene procedures, and other important events. They can share their experience after visiting the dentist, leave reviews and ratings, which helps improve the quality of provided services. The application allows patients to ask questions to the dentist, and receive real-time consultations and recommendations.
The “Stomatologicheskiy Gid” application was created to make the process of obtaining dental services more convenient, informative, and engaging for patients. This table shows estimates of the degree of involvement of patients before and after the introduction of the “Stomatologicheskiy Gid” mobile application. Each rating corresponds to a patient and indicates their change in the assessment of their level of engagement in the process of receiving dental care after the implementation of the technology. The observed increase in ratings indicates that the engagement technology through the mobile application indeed has a positive impact on how patients perceive the process of dental care. This result emphasises the importance of innovative approaches to interacting with patients and maintaining their interest in participating in their own health. After the successful implementation of the “Stomatologicheskiy Gid” mobile application and its active use by patients, there was a noticeable change in their assessment of the degree of involvement in obtaining dental services. Upon analysing the data after the technology’s implementation, it was found that patients rated their level of engagement higher than before the implementation.
The average interest rate increased from 2.8 (preliminary estimates) to 4.2. This noticeable increase indicates a positive effect of mobile application on the involvement of patients. Patients have become more actively involved in the process of receiving dental services, consciously choosing specific procedures and treatments, and showing a greater interest in prevention and caring for their oral health. The observed increase in ratings indicates that the engagement technology through the mobile application indeed has a positive impact on how patients perceive the process of dental care. This result emphasises the importance of innovative approaches to interacting with patients and maintaining their interest in participating in their own health. Based on the conducted study, it can be confidently stated that active patient involvement in preventive measures and timely treatment through a mobile application and addressing issues related to the accessibility and quality of dental services is a realistic goal for reducing the prevalence of dental diseases and improving the oral health of the population of Kazakhstan. This conclusion is based on objective data and the result of observations.
This analysis emphasises that among the key factors contributing to overcoming current issues in dentistry in Kazakhstan, active patient engagement in preventive measures and regular check-ups occupies a central place. The results of the analysis confirm that information campaigns have a significant impact on the level of public awareness of the importance of oral health care. This is due to the fact that detailed information about early detection of problems and prevention methods increases understanding of the importance of maintaining oral health. The effectiveness of such measures helps prevent the occurrence of serious dental problems and, thus, reduces the need for complex and expensive medical interventions. The data analysis notes that one of the main problems faced by residents of remote and sparsely populated areas is the lack of dental clinics on-site (Table 1). To increase the accessibility of dental care, active efforts should be made to expand the network of dental clinics, including the establishment of mobile dental units capable of providing assistance in remote areas.
State participation in the formation of programmes providing subsidies and benefits to low-income residents for accessing dental care is considered a crucial aspect. Such programmes include free or subsidised services for low-income populations, and insurance programmes covering dental services. It is confirmed that to attract more qualified dentists, incentives and benefits should be provided for their education and practice in this field. This includes state scholarships for dental students, financial support for education, programs supporting young professionals, and providing more attractive working conditions for dentists (10). The study also emphasises the importance of improving the quality of education and continuous professional development of dental specialists to ensure the provision of high-quality medical services. This includes modern methods of teaching dentists using the latest technologies and practical training in current clinical skills.
Conducting active informational campaigns aimed at popularising prevention and oral health care can reduce the prevalence of dental problems and decrease the need for costly treatments. This can be achieved through educational events, free preventive campaigns, and the distribution of informational materials. Combining all these measures will create more accessible dental care for all segments of the population, reduce the prevalence of dental issues, and enhance the overall oral health. However, for the successful implementation of these measures, a coordinated approach is needed from the government, the medical community, and the public. Only unified efforts can ensure positive outcomes and guarantee universal access to dental care.
To identify the reasons for the low frequency of dental visits in remote regions of Kazakhstan, understanding the factors influencing the accessibility of dental care in these areas is crucial. For instance, a limited number of dental clinics and medical centres in remote areas can lead to long waiting times for appointments or require lengthy travels to the nearest dental clinic. One of the main challenges is the scarcity of dentists, which can result in a shortage of qualified professionals capable of providing high-quality dental services to the population. Some residents might also lack sufficient information about the importance of regular dental visits and proper oral hygiene. The absence of educational programmes and informational campaigns can lead to insufficient awareness about dental health.
Financial resources also serve as one of the limiting factors in the accessibility of dental services, especially in remote regions. Low income levels in these areas can create difficulties in paying for dental services. Infrastructure problems, such as poor transportation access or limited water and electricity supply, can impact the feasibility of opening and operating dental clinics.(11) To overcome the issue of uneven accessibility to dental care in remote regions of Kazakhstan, a comprehensive approach is required. Important measures could include expanding the network of dental clinics in these areas, increasing public awareness about dental health, ensuring the accessibility of education and training for dental professionals, and developing solutions to overcome economic and infrastructural challenges.
Educating the population about dental health is important to maintain and improve the situation in this area. Regular visits to the dentist for preventive check-ups contribute to the early detection of dental and gum problems, making treatment more effective and less costly. They also help prevent the development of serious dental problems. To enhance the dental health of the population, active efforts are needed in educating people about the importance of regular preventive check-ups, proper oral hygiene, and a healthy lifestyle. This can lead to a decrease in the frequency of dental problems, improvement in overall health, and enhancement of citizens’ quality of life. Active participation from the government and healthcare organisations also plays a crucial role in improving the situation in dental care and public education. Measures such as creating special programmes, medical centres, and mobile clinics, can contribute to expanding access to dental care in remote areas.
The study identified a number of key aspects that have an impact on expanding access to dental services in remote regions of Kazakhstan. One of the essential ways is to provide medical institutions and dental clinics with financial support. This is a measure that helps expand the range of services provided and attract qualified specialists to these areas. Healthcare organisations can play a key role in raising public awareness of the importance of regular preventive examinations, proper hygiene of the oral cavity, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Educational programmes and seminars aimed at spreading such knowledge among the population contribute to improving awareness of dental health and motivate people to care for their teeth and gums.(12) Information campaigns on various media platforms, such as television, radio, the internet, and print publications, effectively communicate the importance of dental health and the significance of regular dental visits to the public.
Collaboration between the government, healthcare organisations, and non-profit organisations can facilitate the broader dissemination of dental health information. Public organisations can organise events, campaigns, and educational programmes in partnership with authorities to support and promote oral health. Integrating telemedicine and remote consultations into dental practice can significantly increase the accessibility of dental care in remote areas. Online consultations and diagnostics allow patients to receive assistance via the Internet, reducing the need for long trips to dental clinics. Integrating education about dental health and proper oral hygiene into school curricula contributes to forming healthy habits in children from an early age. This can reduce the likelihood of dental problems in the future.
Regular monitoring and assessment of the dental situation in different regions of the country enable the government and healthcare organisations to adapt their strategies and programs most effectively.(13) The combination of the aforementioned measures will help improve the accessibility of dental care in remote areas, raise awareness about dental health, and encourage patients to have regular preventive check-ups and take care of their oral hygiene. Active participation from the government and healthcare organisations in addressing the issues of dental care accessibility plays a crucial role in ensuring the health of the population and improving their quality of life. In addition, training medical staff and dentists in effective communication skills with patients is a key factor in enhancing the interaction between healthcare professionals and patients. Possessing such skills fosters the creation of trustful relationships, understanding patients’ needs, and ensuring quality medical care.
5. DISCUSSION
The results of this study hold significant contextual importance within the existing knowledge and trends in patient engagement in the medical process. In contemporary medical practice, the importance of patients actively participating in decisions about their health is increasingly recognised. This study affirms and expands the understanding of this trend by providing specific methods and strategies to enhance patient engagement. The study also makes a valuable contribution to addressing current issues and challenges in healthcare. The results demonstrate that effective interaction between patients and healthcare professionals can lead to more informed and conscious decisions about treatment and prevention. This, in turn, can improve the overall health of the nation, reduce healthcare costs, and enhance the quality of patients’ lives. It is important to note that this study also has certain limitations that should be considered when interpreting the results. Limitations may include a limited sample size, which could restrict the generalisability of the results to a broader population. Attention should also be given to the data collection methods, which could impact the accuracy and reliability of the results. For further advancements in this research area, it might be beneficial to explore several additional aspects. One area could involve a deeper analysis of the influence of various cultural and social factors on patient engagement in the medical process. Moreover, a more detailed examination of different communication methods between patients and healthcare professionals should be considered.
Higher patient engagement in the medical process can bring significant benefits to society. Improving the nation’s health and reducing healthcare costs become more achievable goals with more informed and active patients. This can also contribute to a more rational use of medical resources and alleviate the burden on the healthcare system. Enhancing the quality of life for the population and improving public health become possible through the implementation of the recommendations proposed in this study. The study established a theoretical foundation and provided crucial information about the current state of this issue, enabling the development of effective strategies to enhance dental care and optimise healthcare costs. Further research in this area is of interest to scholars and practitioners and can contribute to the improvement of dental medicine in the country. The accessibility of medical facilities has a significant impact on the level of patient engagement in dental services. The statistical analysis revealed that limited access to dental services in remote and sparsely populated areas of Kazakhstan becomes a problem, necessitating efforts in the development of dental infrastructure.
D.C. Ilieș et al. (14) note that when patients are given a choice, they become active participants in the decision-making process about their health. They can ask questions, explore alternatives, and choose a treatment method that aligns with their values, beliefs, and lifestyle. Such active involvement contributes to increasing patients’ awareness of their condition and available treatment options. This indicates that patients are active participants in making decisions about their health. When patients are given the opportunity to choose, they have a chance to fully influence the treatment process and make more informed decisions. A conventional passive approach to treatment can lead to a lack of opportunities for patients to take an active part in the process of making decisions about their health. Providing choice and actively involving patients can improve the quality of healthcare and treatment outcomes.
S. An et al. (15) indicate that the cost of dental procedures is a serious problem that can hinder access to quality dental treatment for many people. This especially concerns those with limited financial means or lacking insurance coverage that could partially or fully cover dental expenses. Upon analysing the characteristics more precisely, it can be concluded that solving the issue of dental care accessibility requires a comprehensive approach. This approach should encompass the development of dental insurance, the creation of affordable and accessible dental services, the implementation of preventive programs and education, subsidies for low-income citizens, and the development of dental infrastructure. Only through joint efforts of the government, the medical community, and society can more accessible dental services be achieved, leading to improved public health.
According to N. El-Bassel et al. (16), who conducted a study in the Republic of Kazakhstan, a comprehensive analysis of dental medicine in Kazakhstan was conducted to identify existing problems faced by patients when receiving dental services in the country. The researchers explored factors influencing the low level of patient engagement and identified key problematic aspects related to cultural, social, and economic factors in Kazakhstan. Based on the obtained data, they developed a comprehensive approach that integrated various strategies and measures to enhance patient engagement in dental processes in the country. This approach included educational programmes, informational campaigns, measures to reduce service costs, improve accessibility, and other initiatives specific to the context of Kazakhstan. The practical significance lies in identifying the primary factors influencing the level of patient engagement in dental care. Researchers involved in studies related to advertising communication state that financial, informational, and cultural aspects play a significant role in the decision-making process regarding dental care. These studies enable dental clinics and organisations to develop personalised strategies aimed at attracting and retaining patients.
However, it was not mentioned that for a more effective implementation of a comprehensive approach, it is necessary to consider the specificity of each region in Kazakhstan. Various cultural, social, and economic characteristics may require adaptation of engagement strategies. It is essential to develop flexible and innovative approaches that will meet the needs of the diverse population. Referring to the definition by K. Spinler et al. (17), fear before dental procedures is a common problem that can hinder patients from receiving necessary dental care in a timely manner. This fear can be triggered by various factors, such as concerns about pain or discomfort, uncertainty about procedures, worry about one’s health, negative past experiences, or stereotypes associated with dental practice. To address this, it is crucial to develop and implement individualised approaches for each patient, considering their specificities and needs (18).
Special psychological support programs and educational initiatives can help reduce the fear of dental procedures and increase patients’ trust levels. It is also crucial to actively work on changing public perception of dental practice and overcoming negative stereotypes associated with dental procedures. R. Setya Budi and W.B.B. Adisasmito (19) noted that instead of focusing solely on treating existing problems, more attention should be given to prevention and education about dental hygiene. Effective prevention programmes can reduce the incidence of dental diseases and improve the overall dental health of the nation. It is necessary to mention the implementation of educational initiatives, incentives, and rewards for both doctors and patients. Furthermore, improving the accessibility and funding of prevention programmes can significantly impact the improvement of the nation’s dental health and reduce the prevalence of dental diseases.
R. Ramsay (20) emphasised the importance of considering patients’ individual preferences regarding dental treatment. Some patients may prefer conventional or natural treatment methods, while others may prefer modern medical approaches. Providing choice and respecting patients’ preferences enhances their satisfaction and motivation for treatment. When patients are given the opportunity to choose a treatment method that aligns with their beliefs and needs, they tend to be more satisfied with the results and the treatment process. This enhances an overall positive response to dental treatment and contributes to building trustful relationships between patients and dentists. It is essential to remember that different cultures and religions have various traditions, customs, and beliefs that can influence attitudes toward dental treatment.(21) Understanding and considering these cultural and religious nuances enable offering the patient the most suitable treatment methods, considering their cultural and religious values.
6. CONCLUSION
Analysing the results of this study, several key aspects influencing patients’ engagement in the process of receiving dental services were identified. The primary methods applied in this study were patient surveys and data analysis, enabling obtaining valuable practical data and conducting a scientifically grounded analysis. Through a survey conducted among patients of the “Zdorovyie Ulyibki” regional clinic in Almaty, opinions and assessments regarding the degree of their involvement in the process of obtaining dental services were received. This survey provided a unique opportunity to assess changes in patients’ perception of the process after introducing the “Stomatologicheskiy Gid” mobile application. Evaluating the collected data before and after the technology’s implementation allowed comparing average ratings of patient engagement, which disclosed significant changes in this aspect. To enhance the reliability of the results, statistical methods were used for data processing, including comparing the average ratings of patient engagement before and after the implementation of the technology. These methods enabled the conduct of a statistical assessment of the changes and the identification of statistically significant results.
In addition, the empirical study, which was attended by patients of the “Zdorovyie Ulyibki” regional clinic in Almaty, allowed understanding the opinions and attitude of patients to obtaining dental services. Patients’ participation in the study was voluntary, and they were informed about the goals and scope of the study. Confidentiality and data security were ensured, contributing to the credibility and objectivity of the results. The conclusions drawn from the analysis of data underscore the importance of a comprehensive approach to engaging patients in dental medicine in Kazakhstan. This approach is relevant and indispensable in the context of contemporary challenges faced by the dental industry. The study identified key factors influencing the level of patient engagement and allowed for proposing strategies to optimise this process. The combination of scientific analysis methods and empirical research confirms the significance of this approach and provides valuable recommendations for the further development of dental medicine in Kazakhstan. The results of this study indicate the need for ongoing efforts in the field of comprehensive patient engagement in dental practice. Further research and practical work will help delve deeper into and optimise the processes of providing medical services, contributing to improving the nation’s health and enhancing the population’s quality of life.
Author’s contribution:
The all authors were involved in all steps of preparation this article, including final proofreading.
Conflict of interest:
The authors have no conflict of interest to declare.
Financial support and sponsorship:
This research did not receive any specific grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.
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