IMPROVING OUTCOMES FOR TRANSPLANT PATIENTS: CONTRIBUTION OF A DENTAL HYGIENIST

A dental hygienist member of an interdisciplinary medical team can contribute to improved outcomes when cancer and transplant patients experience oral sequelae. Background and purpose Cancer and transplant patients benefit from care provided by an interdisciplinary team comprised of general and oral health care providers. Diagnostic and supportive care including assessment and stabilization of oral health as well as management of treatment and disease sequelae are essential treatment planning components. This article provides support for a dental hygienist team member contributing toward optimal care for this patient population at high risk for infection and other serious complications. Methods A dental hygienist manager of an oral medicine service that provides clinical care for transplant patients describes how her position within a cancer research center has evolved. Using case scenarios, the impact of an interdisciplinary medical transplant team on patient care is presented. Conclusions A dental hygienist, interested in working with oncology or transplant patients, as part of an interdisciplinary medical team, can contribute toward the well-being of patients and experience a challenging and rewarding career that combines aspects of medicine and dentistry.