Patient Knowledge in regard to Injury from Dental Treatments and the ways to Seek Legal Remedy in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

Introduction: In Burkina Faso, oral diseases are exacerbated by poverty. The question of dentist's responsibility in malpractice is particularly pertinent in light of the largely illiterate population that pays scant attention to their rights and whose priority is having access to adequate care. It also needs to be viewed in the context of the low standard of equipment in dental practices. This study was conducted to assess the level of knowledge by the patients in regard to the concept of prejudice and remedies in case of a dispute with a dentist. Patients and Methods: A printed questionnaire was provided to patients being treated at the unit of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics at the Municipal Center for Oral Health of Ouagadougou over the period from March 1st to March 31st of 2016. Results: The results showed that 38.8% of the patients were familiar with the concept of prejudice. But the majority of the patients (59%) were not aware of how to seek redress for damages incurred. For 65% of the patients, God was thought to be responsible for what might happen to them during treatment. Diagnostic errors were reported by 2 patients (1.6%). Only 28% of patients were aware of informed consent. Conclusion: The present work has shown that despite the precarious situation, individuals are nonetheless aware of medical errors and the harm they may cause.