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Gender differences in career and practice patterns of PGD-trained dentists
Kathryn A Atchison1, Carol A Bibb, Karen H Lefever
1UCLA School of Dentistry, Room 53-038, Center for the Health Sciences, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA. kathya@dent.ucla.edu
Journal of Dental Education
|January 11, 2003
Summary
This study reveals significant differences in dental practice patterns and professional activities based on gender and postgraduate training. General dentists and specialists show distinct career paths, with notable gender-based variations in patient load and services offered.
Area of Science:
- Dental Public Health
- Dental Education
- Health Services Research
Background:
- Postgraduate dental training significantly influences practice patterns.
- Understanding gender-based differences in dentistry is crucial for workforce analysis.
- Federal funding impacts postgraduate general dentist programs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare practice patterns and professional activities of general dentists, specialists, and those with Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) or General Practice Residency (GPR) training.
- To identify gender-based differences in dental practice and professional activities.
- To evaluate the impact of postgraduate general dentist (PGD) programs.
Main Methods:
- A survey was administered to a random sample of 6,725 dentists who graduated in 1989, 1993, and 1997.
- Data collected included current practice, referred and provided services, and professional activities.
- 2,029 dentists responded, categorized by training (general, AEGD, GPR, specialty) and gender.
Main Results:
- General dentists were more likely to be in private practice and own practices.
- Specialists saw the highest mean number of patients.
- Females reported fewer patients than males, particularly GPR-trained dentists. GPR-trained dentists provided more advanced procedures like biopsies and implants.
- AEGDs, specialists, and females were more likely to hold faculty positions. GPR dentists volunteered more time.
Conclusions:
- Postgraduate general dentist training shapes employment and practice patterns, enhancing primary care.
- Significant gender differences exist in practice type, patient volume, and services provided, independent of training.
- Dentists with AEGD or GPR training exhibit distinct practice behaviors compared to general dentists without specialty training.