The Braille in Dental Offices

Mladenovski, Marko and Jakovchevska, Аleksandra and Petrovski, Mihajlo and Stefanoska, Таnjа and Toneva Stojmenova, Verica and Gjorshovska, Klimentina (2024) The Braille in Dental Offices. In: II Macedonian Pedodontic Congress, 30 May - 01 June 2024, Skopje.

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Abstract

Introduction: Visiting the dentist poses unique challenges for visually impaired pediatric patients, necessitating effective communication and accessibility strategies. Braille signage and materials offer promising solutions to bridge this gap, yet their implementation in dental offices remains understudied. This study aims to assess dental professionals’ awareness of the challenges faced by visually impaired patients, current accommodations, perceptions of Braille integration, and strategies for implementation.
Methodology: A questionnaire survey was distributed among dental professionals to gather insights into their familiarity with the challenges encountered by visually impaired patients in dental settings, current accommodations in their practices, perceived benefits and challenges of Braille integration, and strategies for implementation and awareness-raising. The questionnaire comprised 10 multiple-choice and open-ended questions and was distributed electronically to a diverse sample of dental professionals.
Results: Analysis of survey responses revealed varying levels of familiarity with the challenges faced by visually impaired patients, with a majority acknowledging the need for improved communication and accessibility. While some dental practices had implemented accommodations for visually impaired patients, such as verbal communication or large-print materials, Braille integration was limited. Perceived benefits of Braille integration included improved navigation and access to information, while concerns such as cost, space limitations, and staff buy-in were identified as potential barriers.
Conclusions: The study underscores the importance of Braille integration in dental offices for enhancing the oral health care experience of visually impaired pediatric patients. Despite challenges, respondents recognized the significance of Braille in fostering inclusivity and empowerment. Recommendations for effective implementation include needs assessment, collaboration with relevant organizations, and staff training to raise awareness and overcome barriers.
Keywords: Braille, visually impaired, dental offices, accessibility, inclusivity

Item Type:	Conference or Workshop Item (Lecture)
Subjects:	Medical and Health Sciences > Clinical medicine Medical and Health Sciences > Health sciences
Divisions:	Faculty of Medical Science
Depositing User:	Verica Toneva Stojmenova
Date Deposited:	07 Jun 2024 07:45
Last Modified:	07 Jun 2024 07:45
URI:	https://eprints.ugd.edu.mk/id/eprint/34226

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