Knowledge of Legal Aspects in Teledentistry among Dental Practitioners in Padang, West Sumatera, Indonesia

Abstract

Background: The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has caused Indonesia to take several actions and strategies in controlling the spread of infection. Padang is one of the cities in West Sumatera, Indonesia that has the highest number of COVID-19 cases. The usage of technology as a tool to minimize contact with infection in dental health care has been proven effective. However, teledentistry as an implementation of this technology is often hampered by legal issues, especially in data security. Aim: The purpose of this study is to determine dental practitioners' understanding of legal elements of teledentistry in Padang, West Sumatera, Indonesia. Methodology: An electronic questionnaire survey with 10 questions was developed by Google Forms, validated, and distributed electronically by zoom to 168 dental practitioners before and after the intervention. Statistical Analysis: Collected data were analyzed for statistical significance by using SPSS software (Version 16.0). . Result: There is a lack of prior knowledge of teledentistry in legal aspects among dental practitioners. A significant level of percentage of participants’ knowledge regarding the teledentistry legal aspects has increased after the intervention. Conclusion: The majority of the respondents in this survey lacked adequate information and understanding of the legal aspects of teledentistry. Seminars and training are needed to increase dental practitioners’ knowledge of the legal issue in teledentistry.