Volume 16, Issue 3 (May & June 2026)
J Research Health 2026, 16(3): 285-294 |
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Ethics code: MRDC/IEC/2024/107
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Srivastava E, Paswan G, Trumboo F, Jain N. Knowledge and Practice Gaps in Medicolegal Aspects of Teledentistry Among Dentists in India. J Research Health 2026; 16 (3) :285-294
URL: http://jrh.gmu.ac.ir/article-1-2722-en.html
URL: http://jrh.gmu.ac.ir/article-1-2722-en.html
1- Manav Rachna International Institute of Research and Studies, Faridabad, India.
2- Department of Prosthodontics, Manav Rachna International Institute of Research and Studies, Faridabad, India. ,nejamaverick@gmail.com
2- Department of Prosthodontics, Manav Rachna International Institute of Research and Studies, Faridabad, India. ,
Abstract: (41 Views)
Background: Teledentistry (TD) has experienced a rapid growth in the post-pandemic period. However, this technology-driven approach has led to numerous medico-legal issues affecting patient’s protection and dentist’s accountability. This study aimed to explore gaps in dentists’ knowledge and practices related to these issues in India, where the regulatory framework is still evolving.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted between May and July 2024 among 256 dental professionals in North India. A convenience sampling method was used to achieve the required sample size. Data were collected using a self-designed, pre-validated questionnaire. Responses were compared based on educational qualification—bachelor of dental surgery (BDS) and master of dental surgery (MDS)—and were analysed using the chi-square test. Spearman’s correlation analysis between knowledge and practice scores was performed to assess the knowledge-practice gap.
Results: Out of 256 respondents, 88.67% were aware of TD, and 70.3% knew about its legal status. Most participants knew the importance of patient consent (93%) and data confidentiality (85.5%), but showed poor understanding of when informed consent is required. Nearly 20% of participants did not maintain electronic records, thereby challenging legal accountability. Overall, MDS professionals showed greater awareness of key issues as compared to BDS professionals. Spearman’s correlation analysis showed a moderate, statistically significant positive relationship (r=0.683, P<0.001) between knowledge and practice scores
Conclusion: This study identified a notable lag in the practical application of knowledge, suggesting an urgent need for targeted education and development of comprehensive regulatory guidelines by the government and regulatory bodies to bridge the gaps.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted between May and July 2024 among 256 dental professionals in North India. A convenience sampling method was used to achieve the required sample size. Data were collected using a self-designed, pre-validated questionnaire. Responses were compared based on educational qualification—bachelor of dental surgery (BDS) and master of dental surgery (MDS)—and were analysed using the chi-square test. Spearman’s correlation analysis between knowledge and practice scores was performed to assess the knowledge-practice gap.
Results: Out of 256 respondents, 88.67% were aware of TD, and 70.3% knew about its legal status. Most participants knew the importance of patient consent (93%) and data confidentiality (85.5%), but showed poor understanding of when informed consent is required. Nearly 20% of participants did not maintain electronic records, thereby challenging legal accountability. Overall, MDS professionals showed greater awareness of key issues as compared to BDS professionals. Spearman’s correlation analysis showed a moderate, statistically significant positive relationship (r=0.683, P<0.001) between knowledge and practice scores
Conclusion: This study identified a notable lag in the practical application of knowledge, suggesting an urgent need for targeted education and development of comprehensive regulatory guidelines by the government and regulatory bodies to bridge the gaps.
Keywords: Telemedicine, Telecommunication, Computerized patient records, Medico-legal aspects, Ethical issues
Type of Study: Orginal Article |
Subject:
● Health Systems
Received: 2025/01/11 | Accepted: 2025/12/13 | Published: 2026/03/14
Received: 2025/01/11 | Accepted: 2025/12/13 | Published: 2026/03/14
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