Abstract

Basheer Rehman*, Amira Qadeer, Mujahida Bibi and Anam Iqbal

The objective of this study was to investigate and analyze the most common reasons for patients visiting Khyber College of Dentistry, Peshawar Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, for dental treatment rather than visiting other dental care centers and private clinics. About 300 patients who visited Khyber College of Dentistry during the period from 20th October 2010 to 5th November 2010, irrespective of gender, were interviewed using a specially designed questionnaire. They were asked to give feedback regarding different reasons for undergoing treatment at this hospital. Males (40%) were remarkably dominated by females (60%) in this study, with 1:1.5 ratios. Patients in their 3rd decade (41.43%) were frequently interviewed followed by 4th decade (20%). Majority of these patients were illiterate. Most of the patients responded that they visited this hospital because of feasible access. 37.14% were referred by their relatives and Doctors (n=40, 28.57%). In response to a question regarding past experiences, 52.86% patients had a satisfactory experience with this hospital. Khyber College of Dentistry is attracting more patients in terms of quality and care. The future of this institution will be built on these bases to improve the delivery of dental care. Patients are directly accessing information on new technologies and treatment methods.