Impact of covid-19 on dentists in the public and private sectors

The implications of covid-19 on dentists in the public and private sectors

Abstract

Abstract: In March 2020, the covid-19 disease was considered a pandemic by the World Health Organization, causing several repercussions on the personal and professional aspects of oral health professionals. Objective: The research aimed to analyze the impact of the covid-19 pandemic on dentists in the public and private networks of Pernambuco, considering their respective work activities, socioeconomic data, and health status of these workers. Methodology: Quantitative, descriptive, and analytical cross-sectional study, developed through secondary data collection in the period from June to December 2020. Results: It is evident that the issues related to negative financial repercussions for the private practice and insufficient biosafety for the public service reinforce the existence of inequalities between the systems of oral health professionals. Conclusion: It is essential to propose strategies of psychological and financial support for oral health professionals in attempt to properly reestablish dental services, in addition to the construction of public policies focused on the valorization of dentistry and greater democratization of access to oral health.