[Dentists and peer review: results of a descriptive study on perceived effects of peer review]

In the Netherlands over 20% of dentists participate in peer review groups. The peer review method is highly structured and consists of: setting standards for good dental care, measuring and evaluating performances against the standards and making improvements if necessary. An independent research institute (Nivel) investigated the perceived effects and advantages of and barriers to peer review. A postal questionnaire was sent tot 278 dentists who participate in peer review (response 60%). The results showed many effects of peer review. The most frequently reported effects were: more insight into the performances of colleagues, increased inter-professional contacts, a more critical attitude to performances, increased professional expertise and new inspiration and motivation. The respondents reported improvements in practice-organisation as well as in technical aspects of dental care. However, many dentists also mentioned some barriers to peer review. The method was evaluated as rather complex and it appeared to be difficult to reach consensus about standards for good dental care. In general, respondents perceived a positive balance between advantages and disadvantages of peer review, however many dentists were dissatisfied with the lack of financial compensation for participation in peer review.