Comparison of Dentist Preference towards Software Based Versus Handwritten Prescriptions in Pediatric Dental Patients- A Mixed Methods Study
Shamika Kamath *
Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed to be University Dental College and Hospital, Navi Mumbai, India.
Ashwin Jawdekar
Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed to be University Dental College and Hospital, Navi Mumbai, India.
Amar Katre
Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, GD Pol Foundation’s YMT Dental College and Hospital, Navi Mumbai, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Introduction: Prescriptions for children must be with accurate drug dosages and clear instructions. A digital tool to write, save and send prescriptions can potentially overcome the limitations of hand-written prescriptions. A preliminary mixed methods study comparing a novel ‘app-based’ and handwritten prescriptions in pediatric dental settings is reported.
Methodology: Eighteen post-graduate students from departments of pediatric dentistry of two dental schools participated in this mix-methods crossover study. An android app prototype PREASY was indigenously developed to make digital prescriptions. The handwritten and app-based prescriptions were compared in terms of time taken (seconds), precision (accuracy, legibility and clarity) and satisfaction (Likert rating). The mean time taken was compared using t-test, accuracy was compared using ANOVA and satisfaction using a Chi squared test. Qualitative feedback was obtained regarding the PREASY app.
Results: The mean time taken for handwritten prescriptions {154.28(+ 54.06)seconds} was almost three times higher than that for the app based prescriptions (54.22 (+ 25.66)seconds} [Student ‘t’ test P < .00001]. The mean differences for accuracy, legibility and clarity were 1.36 + 0.66, 1.39 + 0.44 1.11 + 0.50, respectively and were statistically non-significant (P=.247). A majority of participants were very satisfied or satisfied (94.45%); and the remaining (5.55%), were neutral, dissatisfied or very dissatisfied, [Chi square test, P <.00001]. Qualitative analysis identified important themes that could be segregated in four domains from feedback obtained through open-ended questions and semi-structured group discussion.
Conclusion: App-based prescriptions were quicker and more accurate than the handwritten ones with the majority of participants satisfied. Valuable comments pertaining to limitations of the tool and improvement were identified.
Keywords: Dentist preference, handwritten prescription, pediatric, patients