Lay summary
This research project focuses on gaining understanding of the high missed appointment rates of children of Tongan descent who are enrolled in the Canterbury Community Oral Health Service (COHS). It also looks at how to reduce this high missed appointment rate in a way that is culturally safe for these families. Additionally, it is about ensuring that there is a meaningful connection between the oral health system and families of these children. The learnings and findings from this project will help inform and formulate a set of actions that would reduce the high missed appointment rates in a way that is sustainable and culturally appropriate for these families. The aim of this research project is to develop evidence-based and culturally grounded interventions to reduce missed appointment rates of Tongan children who are enrolled in the Christchurch’s hospital-based Community Oral Health Service.