Increasing XXXX Intervention Strategies by Oral Health Practitioners in Indiana.

@entity1 @entity286
PURPOSE: To implement and assess an evidence-based 7-hour continuing education program for Indiana oral health care practitioners on @entity286 use, dependence and treatment using a team-based approach. Program effectiveness was assessed by @entity1 ' reported increase in knowledge and the extent to which they implemented course concepts and strategies into dental practice. METHODS: Course attendees' study participation was based on agreeing to provide their contact information and to complete two surveys (an 18 item post-session and 14 item 3-month follow-up) which captured their self-reported knowledge and application of course concepts. Surveys included open-ended and multiple choice (dichotomous or 5-point Likert scale) items. Follow-up surveys were mailed / delivered electronically to @entity1 ; non-responders were sent two reminders. De-identified data were analyzed in an aggregate using descriptive statistics, percentages and counts. RESULTS: Eleven programs were attended by 626 practitioners. Initial survey response rate was 91% (565); hygienists (70%), dentists (25%); unidentified (5%). Most indicated the program enhanced their knowledge of most course concepts; 98% (522) planned to use learned communication strategies. Of dentists, 90% (113) planned to refer to the Indiana quitline and 60% (71) planned to provide @entity1 cessation materials. Follow-up response rate was 40% (250); 79% (184) reported implementing cessation communication strategies. One-third of respondents reported referring @entity1 to the quitline for counseling. CONCLUSION: Continuing education for oral health providers in understanding @entity286 use, dependence and treatment may be beneficial to enhance their capacity and willingness to integrate @entity286 cessation interventions into oral healthcare settings. However, this does not necessarily assure that they will change their practice behaviors by utilizing the learned concepts and skills with @entity1 .
