What is the impact of integration of dental care in primary health care?

The integration of dental care into primary health care significantly enhances the comprehensiveness of patient care, leading to better health outcomes. When dental services are included within the broader framework of primary health care, patients receive holistic treatment that addresses both their oral and overall health needs. This approach fosters a more cohesive response to health concerns, as dental issues can be linked to various systemic diseases and conditions, such as diabetes and cardiovascular health.

By providing a unified platform for health services, patients benefit from coordinated care, reduced barriers to access, and increased opportunities for preventative measures. For instance, primary care providers can identify oral health issues during routine examinations and refer patients to dental professionals as needed, ensuring that treatment is timely and effective. This not only improves the patient's quality of life but also can lead to lower healthcare costs in the long run by preventing more serious health problems that require extensive treatment.

The other options, such as increased costs, greater separation, or no significant change, do not align with the benefits associated with integrated care, which focuses on improving patient outcomes through collaboration and comprehensive health management.