The development of a quality improvement framework for dental volunteering programs in remote Aboriginal communities: the Kimberley perspective

Remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities face significant disparities in oral health with limited access to dental services. This thesis aims to identify the key components required for an evidence-based continuous quality improvement (CQI) framework to support volunteer dental services in these communities. A mixed methods approach, including context reviews, qualitative studies and an evaluation of a volunteer model of care through the Kimberley perspective was used to guide the development of the framework. A cyclical CQI model was subsequently developed through evidence synthesis and framework analysis that encourages volunteers to continuously question, consult and collaborate towards improving services.