A systems approach using the functional resonance analysis method to support fluoride varnish application for children attending general dental practice

Ross, A. , Sherriff, A. , Kidd, J., Gnich, W., Anderson, J.E., Deas, L. and Macpherson, L. (2018) A systems approach using the functional resonance analysis method to support fluoride varnish application for children attending general dental practice. Applied Ergonomics, 68, pp. 294-303. (doi: 10.1016/j.apergo.2017.12.005) (PMID:29409648)

[img]
Preview
Text
153662.pdf - Published Version
Available under License Creative Commons Attribution Non-commercial No Derivatives.

608kB

Abstract

Background: All children attending General Dental Practice in Scotland are recommended to receive twice-yearly applications of sodium fluoride varnish to prevent childhood caries, yet application is variable. Development of complex interventions requires theorizing and modelling to understand context. This study applies the Functional Resonance Analysis Method (FRAM) to produce a sociotechnical systems model and identify opportunities for intervention to support application. Methods: The FRAM was used to synthesise data which were: routine monitoring of fluoride varnish application in 2015/16; a longitudinal survey with practitioners (n= 1090); in-depth practitioner and key informant interviews (n= 43); and a ‘world café’ workshop (n= 56). Results: We describe a detailed model of functions linked to application, and use this to make recommendations for system-wide intervention. Conclusions: Rigorous research is required to produce accessible models of complex systems in healthcare. This novel paper shows how careful articulation of the functions associated with fluoride varnish application can support future improvement efforts.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Sherriff, Professor Andrea and Kidd, Dr Jamie and Deas, Dr Leigh and Gnich, Dr Wendy and Macpherson, Professor Lorna and Ross, Dr Alastair
Authors: Ross, A., Sherriff, A., Kidd, J., Gnich, W., Anderson, J.E., Deas, L., and Macpherson, L.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing > Dental School
Research Group:Community Oral Health
Journal Name:Applied Ergonomics
Publisher:Elsevier
ISSN:0003-6870
ISSN (Online):1872-9126
Published Online:26 December 2017
Copyright Holders:Copyright © 2017 The Authors
First Published:First published in Applied Ergonomics 68:294-303
Publisher Policy:Reproduced under a Creative Commons License

University Staff: Request a correction | Enlighten Editors: Update this record

Project CodeAward NoProject NamePrincipal InvestigatorFunder's NameFunder RefLead Dept
398963Evaluation of Scotland Child Oral Health ProgrammeLorna MacphersonScottish Government (SCOTGOV)N/ASM - DENTAL SCHOOL