EVALUATION OF THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE SCHOOL DENTAL HEALTH PROGRAM AT BAKI SUKOHARJO COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Abstract

Background: Oral and dental health remains a public health problem in Indonesia. The 2023

Indonesian Health Survey (SKI) reported that approximately 57% of the population aged three

years and above experienced oral and dental complaints. In the working area of the Baki

Sukoharjo Primary Health Center, UKGS screening in 2023 showed a high prevalence of dental

caries among elementary school students. Untreated caries may affect learning comfort,

appetite, and children’s quality of life. Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the

implementation of the School Dental Health Program (UKGS) in elementary schools within

the working area of the Baki Sukoharjo Primary Health Center in 2023 based on input, process,

and outcome aspects. Methods: This study used a descriptive qualitative design. Data were

collected through interviews with six informants to assess the input and process of UKGS

implementation. Outcomes were evaluated using odontogram records from dental

examinations of students at SDN Gentan 1 and MI Al-Falah. Results: The UKGS

implementation was not optimal. Limitations were identified in personnel, funding, and

supporting facilities. Promotive and preventive activities were not conducted routinely, and

dental examinations were limited to screening. The prevalence of dental caries increased from

88.7% to 92% at SDN Gentan 1 and from 82.7% to 84.3% at MI Al-Falah. Conclusion: The

UKGS implementation in the Baki Sukoharjo area has not been effective in reducing dental

caries. Improved coordination between primary health centers and schools, sufficient funding,

and strengthened sustainable promotive and preventive activities are required.

Keywords: Dental caries, Elementary school, Evaluation, Puskesmas, UKGS