The Basic Screening Survey (BSS) is a survey tool that is used by the majority of state dental programs. It forms the basis of our national oral health surveillance system for the IHS ECC Collaborative. This page provides information to those who will be conducting the survey throughout the IHS. An oral epidemiologist will be working with Headquarters, Dental Support Centers, and the Area Dental Officers to compile and analyze the BSS data.

Monitoring health for program evaluation and surveillance (such as oral health status and the ECC Collaborative) is public health practice and not research; therefore, it does not need IRB approval. The Association of State and Territorial Dental Directors developed a practical guide for state health departments conducting Basic Screening Surveys. The intent of the guide is to improve understanding of the distinctions between public health practice and research. Go to http://www.cste.org/pdffiles/newpdffiles/CSTEPHResRptHodgeFinal.5.24.04.pdf to download a copy of the guide.

• 2011-2020 IHS Oral Health Surveillance Plan Powerpoint Presentation
• 2011-2020 IHS Oral Health Surveillance Plan
• More information about the Basic Screening Survey (BSS)   (8/13/2010 - PDF - 68KB)
  
  
• IHS Basic Screening Survey 2010: Data Collection Form for Children 0-5 Years of Age   (8/13/2010 - PDF - 98KB)
  
  
• IHS Basic Screening Survey 2010: Examiner "Cheat Sheet"   (8/13/2010 - PDF - 175KB)
  
  
• A Letter from the Director, Division of Oral Health   (8/13/2010 - PDF - 100KB)
  
  
• National Oral Health Surveillance System
• The complete Basic Screening Survey Manual