Degree Name
MSAH (Master of Science in Allied Health)
Program
Allied Health
Date of Award
12-2013
Committee Chair or Co-Chairs
Deborah Dotson
Committee Members
Randy Byington, Ester Verhovsek
Abstract
Quality assurance in healthcare is fundamental in ensuring the achievement of desired outcomes for patients. In 2011 a quality assurance plan was created at the East Tennessee State University (ETSU) dental hygiene program in order to meet accreditation standards. The purpose of this study was to evaluate this plan in order to determine its effectiveness in improving the quality of patient care indicators. One hundred fifty patient charts were selected and audited. Deficiencies were counted in the categories of assessment, treatment, documentation, referral, caries management, perio management, patient education, and follow-up. Research findings were varied; however, external variables with the potential to affect the study’s results were identified. Furthermore, statistical process control procedures indicated that the quality assurance program was effective or had the potential to be effective. Although further research is warranted, this study could be used to improve quality assurance practices at the ETSU dental hygiene program.
Document Type
Thesis - unrestricted
Recommended Citation
Fielden, Jennifer E., "An Evaluation of the Quality Assurance Plan at East Tennessee State University’s Dental Hygiene Program" (2013). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. Paper 2298. https://dc.etsu.edu/etd/2298
Copyright
Copyright by the authors.
Included in
Dental Public Health and Education Commons, Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Research Commons, Other Medicine and Health Sciences Commons