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Racial/ethnic variations of practicing dentists
L J Brown1, K S Wagner, B Johns
1American Dental Association, Health Policy Resources Center, 211 E. Chicago Ave., Chicago, Ill. 60611, USA.
Journal of the American Dental Association (1939)
|January 6, 2001
Summary
The American Dental Association surveyed dentists nationwide, finding that while most are satisfied, racial and ethnic diversity influences patient care, practice patterns, and services offered. This diversity impacts the evolving dental profession.
Area of Science:
- Dental Public Health
- Sociology of Health
Background:
- The dental school population has become more racially and ethnically diverse.
- The American Dental Association (ADA) initiated a study to examine these demographic shifts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate differences and similarities among dentists based on race/ethnicity.
- To understand how increasing diversity in dentistry affects practice patterns and patient care.
Main Methods:
- Nationwide survey distributed to approximately 8,000 dentists.
- Data collected on personal characteristics, practice issues, income, and patient demographics.
- Analysis included distinct racial/ethnic groupings: white, black, Hispanic, Native American, and Asian.
Main Results:
- Majority of dentists reported high job satisfaction.
- Significant variations observed in patient mix, employment history, and provision of subsidized dental care.
- Dentists' racial/ethnic background correlated with the types of patients treated and services offered.
Conclusions:
- Dentists' racial and ethnic backgrounds are associated with variations in patient populations served.
- Practice patterns differ across racial/ethnic groups, influencing the delivery of dental care.
- As the dental profession diversifies, understanding these practice variations is crucial for the future of oral healthcare.