Willingness of dentists in Jordan to treat HIV-infected patients

Oral Dis. 2005 Sep;11(5):318-22. doi: 10.1111/j.1601-0825.2005.01126.x.

Abstract

Reluctance of dentists to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) positive patients represents a major concern. Many efforts have been extended towards the documentation of the extent of this reluctance and speculation of factors that influence it.

Objectives: Assess the willingness of dentists in Jordan to treat HIV-infected patients.

Materials and methods: Two hundred and forty-two general dental practices were surveyed for their willingness to provide treatment of toothache and routine dental care of an HIV-infected individual.

Results: Only 15% of the dental practices were willing to provide such care. Willingness to provide treatment did not seem to be influenced by financial factors or the local prevalence of HIV disease.

Conclusion: Present data suggest that HIV-infected individuals will have difficulty in obtaining dental health care in Jordan.

MeSH terms

  • Attitude of Health Personnel*
  • Dental Care for Chronically Ill / psychology*
  • Dentists / psychology*
  • General Practice, Dental
  • HIV Infections / psychology*
  • Humans
  • Jordan
  • Refusal to Treat