IMPLEMENTATION OF INFECTION CONTROL AND PREVENTION IN DENTAL PRACTICE IN PALEMBANG DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Abstract

The Indonesian Dentist Association (PDGI) has introduced regulations and recommendations to guarantee the safety of dental practitioners and patients during pandemics, yet, the implementation have not been optimal. This study aimed to analyze the implementation of infection control prevention in dental practices during the pandemic in Palembang using a qualitative approach. Focus group discussions (FGD) have been performed to batches of dentists, followed by in-depth interviews with the Head of the PDGI Palembang. Observations were also carried out to pertain more information on the on-site implementation. Research shows that despite having sufficient knowledge and a favorable attitude on corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) transmission prevention and guidelines were made by PDGI, the majority of dentists did not adhere to the guidelines and failed to provide the necessary, such as pay with cashless, using telemedicine, level 3 personal protective equipment (PPE), aerosol, vacuum aerosol, and room renovation due to financial difficulties, room availability, swelter, the glasses fog up, and the limitations of telemedicine services. The absence of particular government regulation on dental practices hindered PDGI’s ability to impose strict sanctions on those who failed to adhere. PDGI has socialized infection management and infection control prevention, yet its implementation is inadequate due to budgetary constraints and a lack of government regulation. Congruence and updated regulation need to be performed by the government with the support of PDGI to command dental practices and healthcare practices in delivering safe and quality dental services to the patients.