Reasons why South African qualified dentists are working in the UK

Various reasons are provided why professional people are leaving or had left the country since 1990. A substantial number of these emigrants were dentists who went to practise their profession in the United Kingdom (UK). The purpose of this study was to determine, by way of a questionnaire, why some South African qualified dentists prefer to practise their profession in the UK. The results showed that the high level of crime and violence in South Africa is the most important reason why South African qualified dentists are leaving or have left the country. Economical considerations, either their own financial position or the general economy of the country also appear to be an important reason why South African qualified dentists are moving abroad.