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Effectiveness of interventions to promote continuing professional development for dentists
Helen A Best1, Louise Brearley Messer
1Eastman Dental Institute, University College, London UK.
Summary
Quality Improvement interventions modestly improved dental practice scores after one year. Self-assessment with feedback proved effective for professional development, highlighting the need to observe participation patterns.
Area of Science:
- Dental Practice Management
- Healthcare Professional Development
- Quality Improvement Science
Background:
- Continuing education is essential for dentists to maintain professional standards.
- Evaluating new strategies for continuing professional development is crucial.
- Quality Improvement (QI) offers a framework for enhancing dental practice.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the effectiveness of two QI-based interventions for dental professionals.
- To determine if self-assessment and targeted feedback improve dental practice quality.
- To evaluate the impact of a QI continuing education course.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial was conducted in Australian dental practices.
- A self-assessment manual developed via the Delphi technique was used.
- Interventions included manual completion, feedback, and a QI course; control groups received only the manual or delayed assessment.
Main Results:
- Self-assessment combined with scores and references led to modest improvements in dental practice scores after one year.
- A response bias was observed in the study results.
- All groups showed changes, but the intervention group demonstrated specific improvements.
Conclusions:
- A QI-focused self-assessment method can facilitate positive change in dental practice.
- Effective professional development strategies require evaluation of participation.
- Self-assessment and feedback are valuable tools for enhancing dental quality.