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Participation of UK dentists in continuing professional development
A Bullock1, V Firmstone, A Fielding
1Centre for Research in Medical and Dental Education (CRMDE), School of Education, University of Birmingham, UK. a.d.bullock@bham.ac.uk
British Dental Journal
|January 24, 2003
Summary
Most dentists engage in continuing professional development (CPD), primarily through journal reading and courses. However, some groups, like experienced or solo practitioners, may need support to meet the General Dental Council
Area of Science:
- Dental Education
- Professional Development
- Healthcare Workforce Studies
Background:
- Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is crucial for maintaining dental practice standards.
- Understanding dentist participation in CPD is essential for effective lifelong learning initiatives.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report on the participation rates of dentists in continuing professional development (CPD).
- To identify factors influencing dentists' engagement in CPD activities.
Main Methods:
- A survey was distributed to general dental practitioners (GDPs) across three English deaneries.
- A response rate of 54% (n=2082) was achieved, with sample characteristics comparable to national data.
Main Results:
- Journal reading and courses are the most common forms of CPD engagement.
- The mean verifiable CPD score was 31 hours (median 25), and general CPD was 29 hours (median 29).
- 57% of dentists met the 50-hour requirement of the General Dental Council's (GDC) Lifelong Learning Scheme; experienced and single-handed practitioners were less likely to meet this.
Conclusions:
- Specific dentist groups require support to fulfill GDC Lifelong Learning Scheme requirements.
- Mandatory peer review or clinical audit will likely impact dentists' CPD patterns, necessitating facilitator adjustments.