Factors Affecting Access to the Online dental appointment System via the Mor Prom Application Among Elderly in Ron Phibun District, Nakhon Si Thammarat

Abstract

This research aimed to identify the factors influencing access to the online dental appointment system among elderly individuals in Ron Phibun District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, in order to develop an online dental appointment model through the “Moh Prom” application for the district. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining both quantitative and qualitative methods. The study population consisted of older adults aged 60–79 years. Quantitative data were collected through interviews with 228 participants, while qualitative data were obtained from in-depth interviews with 10 participants. The research instruments used for data collection included a questionnaire and a semi-structured interview guide. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation, as well as inferential statistics, specifically stepwise multiple regression analysis.

The findings revealed that factors influencing dental appointment system among the sample were at a high level, particularly perceived benefits of disease prevention or treatment (= 3.75, SD = 0.76) and perceived benefits of technology (= 3.96, SD = 0.59). Factors related to perceived risk and severity of disease, perceived ease of use, perceived barriers to accessing the online dental appointment booking system, as well as social and environmental. Conditions were found to have a moderate level of influence. The qualitative findings revealed that most elderly individuals preferred the availability of online appointments, as they perceived it to be more convenient and faster than the traditional appointment system. However, they still felt the need to rely on caregivers or nearby acquaintances for assistance in making online dental appointments. The findings of this study can be used to inform the development of dental service systems that are suitable for the elderly population and responsive to future social changes.