Integrating Dental Healthcare into Primary Health Care through an implementation model in two districts of Karnataka in India: An implementation research study protocol.

introductionDespite progress in primary care, access to oral health remains limited in India. Integrating oral health into primary care can improve oral health outcomes for communities, especially in rural areas. This study aims to develop an implementation model for integrating dental healthcare into primary healthcare systems in Chamarajanagar and Mysuru districts of Karnataka. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: A mixed-methods implementation research approach will be adopted for this study, comprising three phases: formative, pilot and implementation and evaluation.A mixed-methods study at the district level will be conducted to capture diverse perspectives and characterise inequalities in oral healthcare access and literacy levels across urban, rural and tribal areas. Oral health literacy surveys, facility preparedness checklists and in-depth interviews will be conducted. With a consultative approach involving stakeholders, we ensure their input in the design and pilot the integrated interventions to build a replicable model for integrating dental health services into primary healthcare.Through this structured approach, the study seeks to improve overall oral health outcomes and achieve sustainable improvements in oral health at both community and system levels. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: This study has been approved by the Institutional Ethics Committee at the Institute of Public Health Bengaluru (IPH/23-24/E/374). Findings will be disseminated through workshops, presentations and publications in peer-reviewed journals.