The adoption and diffusion of Internet technology in the organization and management of dental practice: An exploratory analysis of African American dentists in greater Chicago

This qualitative multicase study utilized the diffusion of innovation theory to investigate the attitudes and opinions of African American dentists. The study was designed to reveal whether technology diffusion plays a role among African American dentists in enhancing the delivery, education, and access of oral health to the communities in which they serve. Based on years in practice and the type of practice ownership, 10 members of the Chicago Dental Society were chosen for this study. Data collection consisted of interviews, examination of related documents, and field observations to enhance the triangulation of data.; The results indicate that African American dentists have begun to incorporate Internet technologies into their organizations' management and administration procedures. The participants consider the Internet to be an asset to their practices and perceive that the Internet will play an increasing role in the delivery of dental health care services. The findings also suggest that the rate of Internet use among African American dentists follows the pattern described by the results of national samples.; The study suggests that the rate at which new technologies diffuse among African American dentists might lead to gains in the oral health disparities found within African American communities. It also provides a glimmer of hope for the advancement of other beneficial technologies that reduce the incidence of oral diseases and improve the overall health within African American communities.