The Role of the Dentist in National Disaster

摘要

There are three basic areas of responsibility in which the dentist can serve most effectively: (a) civic or community; (b) administrative; and (c) professional. These areas can be capably served by the dentist without resort to extra disciplinary training. Extra disciplinary functions that become the responsibility of the dentist can be attained through the institution of training programs under the combined aegis of the medical and dental professions. Only the total health team approach can effectively cope with the problems created by a national disaster. The effective utilization of dental auxiliary personnel; the dental hygienist, dental assistant and dental laboratory technician is recognized as a necessary addition to the total health team. The recommended approach to prepare the dentist and dental auxiliaries for new and expanded functions in providing emergency care in national disaster is through the implementation of disaster preparedness principles into existing dental curriculums. (Author)