Summary
This qualitative study examined the accessibility and implementation challenges of a voluntary dental network serving undocumented migrants in the Netherlands through interviews with patients, healthcare providers and NGO staff. Whilst the network provided a temporary solution to address initial barriers to oral health care, structural limitations including fragmented provision, financial constraints, and competing expectations among stakeholders undermined its sustainability. The authors conclude that systemic policy interventions are necessary to address long-term inequalities in oral health access for undocumented populations.
UK applicability
The findings are likely applicable to the United Kingdom, which similarly hosts undocumented migrant populations facing healthcare access barriers. The study's identification of systemic barriers and the limitations of voluntary charitable provision may inform UK policy discussions around equitable oral health care provision for vulnerable populations.
Key measures
Thematic analysis of 21 semi-structured interviews (12 undocumented migrants, 7 dentists, 2 NGO staff) using framework analysis method; barriers to access; perceived treatment outcomes; organisational and logistic challenges
Outcomes reported
The study explored barriers to and accessibility of a voluntary dental network for undocumented migrants through interviews with patients, dentists and NGO staff. It identified challenges including conflicting expectations, limited financial resources, logistic and communication barriers, and administrative burden affecting the provision of oral health care.
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