Discrimination or discretion? Exploring dentists’ views on treating patients with hepatitis C

Temple-Smith, M
Jenkinson, K
Lavery, J
Gifford, S M
Morgan, M

^*Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe
University, Melbourne, Victoria.
†Refugee Health Research Centre, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria.
‡School of Dental Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria.
Address for correspondence/reprints:
Dr Meredith Temple-Smith
Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society
La Trobe University
1st Floor, 215 Franklin Street
Melbourne, Victoria 3000
Fax: +61 3 9285 5220
Email: [email protected]

Australian Dental Journal 51(4):p 318-323, December 2006.

Abstract

Background:

People with hepatitis C (over 259 000 Australians) experience stigma and discrimination, whether perceived or actual, in health care settings. They are less likely to access health care, presenting a major barrier to preventive care and treatment. This study aims to identify factors contributing to such discrimination, barriers to optimal care and strategies to overcome these.

Methods:

A purposive sample of 25 Victorian dentists took part in semi-structured interviews to investigate their experiences and attitudes in providing care to people with hepatitis C. Interviews were taped, transcribed and coded for thematic analysis.

Results:

All dentists interviewed were aware of Standard Precautions. However, there were some who changed practices when seeing a client with hepatitis C, suggesting that they lack confidence in Standard Precautions. When prompted, these dentists were concerned that patients may perceive these actions as discriminatory. All participants, including a small minority who expressed negative views about injecting drug users, felt a professional obligation to treat all patients.

Conclusions:

Most dentists have appropriate attitudes regarding patients with blood-borne viruses. However, it is important for dentists to understand how their actions may be interpreted by those who feel sensitive about their status. Dentists need to feel genuinely confident about Standard Precautions and have a realistic view of the infection risk posed by patients with blood-borne viruses.