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Identifying local patterns of cross boundary flow and developing socio-economic profiles for general dental
Objectives:
The objective of this study was to assess cross-boundary flow in general dental practices in Dudley.
Design:
Data were collected on NHS patients attending 57 general dental practitioners in Dudley Health District. Socio-economic data were attached to recognised postcodes in order to establish district of residence of patients and the socio-economic (ACORN) status of the neighbourhood in which they lived.
Setting:
General dental practices in Dudley.
Subjects:
General Dental Service patients.
Results:
Using this methodology a profile of the patient population attending the participating practitioners was drawn up, giving an insight into patterns of dental attendance.
Conclusion:
These profiles will act as indicators of practices in which there are high levels of cross boundary flow and inform discussions on local commissioning.
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