Objective:
to evaluate the structure, care process and results of the endodontics, periodontics and surgery services at the Pelotas/RS Dental Specialties Centre (DSC).
Methods:
this was a cross-sectional study; an evaluation was made of the number of dental professionals and teams at the DSC, forms of referral and appointment making and no-show management; demand for services and referral to the appointment control centre between July 2012 and June 2013 were characterized.
Results:
940 service users received care and 1,502 procedures were performed; 76.0% of procedures were concluded; average waiting time was 2 months; 13% of service users referred did not complete treatment and 849 were on the waiting list.
Conclusion:
DSC did not meet Ministry of Health required productivity parameters and needs to increase production; the appointment control centre needs protocols to guide care prioritization; moreover, the municipality needs additional DSCs.
Specialties, Dental; Secondary Care; Health Evaluation; Dental Health Services; Health Services Accessibility