Résumé·s
Objective This scoping study has been conducted to map
the literature and provide a descriptive synthesis on the
barriers and facilitators of the integration of oral health into
primary care.
Methods Grounded in the Rainbow conceptual model and
using the Levac et al six-stage framework, we performed a
systematic search of electronic databases, organisational
websites and grey literature from 1978 to April 2016. All
publications with a focus on the integration of oral health
into primary care were included except commentaries
and editorials. Thematic analyses were performed to
synthesise the results.
Results From a total of 1619 citations, 58 publications
were included in the review. Barrier-related themes
included: lack of political leadership and healthcare
policies; implementation challenges; discipline-oriented
education; lack of continuity of care and services
and patients’ oral healthcare needs. The facilitators
of integration were supportive policies and resources
allocation, interdisciplinary education, collaborative
practices between dental and other healthcare
professionals, presence of local strategic leaders and
geographical proximity.
Discussion and public health implications This
work has advanced the knowledge on the barriers and
facilitators at each integration domain and level, which
may be helpful if the healthcare organisations decide to
integrate oral health and dental services into primary care.
The scoping review findings could be useful for both dental
and medical workforce and allied primary healthcare
providers. They could also guide the development of
healthcare policies that support collaborative practices and
patient-centred care in the field of primary care.