Evaluation of the degree of satisfaction of dental service users of family health units

ABSTRACT

Objective: to assess the degree of user satisfaction with oral health services in the National Health System. Material and Methods: this is a descriptive cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach. Overall, 325 users were interviewed in dental service units of the family health strategy in the Municipality of Aquidauana, MS, using exclusion criterion patient under the age of 15 years and any inability to answer the instrument used. The results were processed using the Epi Info statistical software using data frequency analysis. Results: users reported treatment as the main reason for seeking dental services (39.4%), followed by pain (28.3%) and review and prevention (26.8%). It was observed that 49.2% of patients seek the service on their own (25.2%) were referred by Community Health Agent; (19.1%) by a family member or friend and (3.7%) by the dentist. Respondents showed greater satisfaction with the location of Units; with the way they were received at the Unit; with the time of service and the scheduling of consultations in primary care. In relation to self-assessment on the oral health status, 40% of users considered good and 39.4% as regular. Conclusion: the satisfaction rates with oral health services offered in the National Health System were high, and most users who were in treatment, sought the service on their own and in need for treatment.