Collaboration Between Dentists and Nurses to Elevate Healthcare Quality in Saudi Hospitals and Healthcare Centers

Abstract

Background: Collaboration among healthcare professionals is a cornerstone of high-quality care. In Saudi Arabia, the integration of dentists and nurses in healthcare delivery remains underdeveloped, despite its potential to enhance patient outcomes by addressing the critical connection between oral and systemic health.
Objective: This study aims to explore the role of collaboration between dentists and nurses in improving healthcare quality in Saudi hospitals and healthcare centers. It also identifies barriers to effective collaboration and proposes strategies for fostering interdisciplinary teamwork.
Methods: A systematic review of relevant literature was conducted to examine global and local practices, barriers, and benefits of dentist-nurse collaboration. The review focused on interprofessional communication, education, and the integration of oral health into comprehensive care.
Results: The findings highlight several barriers to collaboration, including role ambiguity, communication gaps, and limited interprofessional education. Despite these challenges, effective collaboration is associated with significant benefits, such as improved patient outcomes, enhanced preventive care, and greater healthcare efficiency. Global best practices suggest that integrating oral health into primary care and fostering interprofessional training can be instrumental in overcoming these challenges. Conclusion: Strengthening dentist-nurse collaboration in Saudi Arabia is essential for achieving the goals of Vision 2030. Addressing identified barriers through targeted interventions, such as interprofessional education and organizational support, can lead to a more integrated healthcare system that delivers holistic, patient-centered care. Further research and policy development are needed to realize this potential and enhance healthcare delivery in Saudi Arabia.