Prediction model of regional orthodontic workforce needs, using Greece as an example.

Area of Science:

• Epidemiology
• Public Health
• Dental Workforce Planning

Background:

• Assessing orthodontic workforce needs is crucial for equitable healthcare access.
• Regional variations in treatment demand and provider distribution can lead to disparities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a theoretical epidemiological model for predicting orthodontic workforce requirements.
• To evaluate the current orthodontic workforce distribution in Greece based on regional treatment needs.

Main Methods:

• Collected data on school-aged children (8-11 years) in Greek regional divisions.
• Utilized the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN) to estimate treatment demand.
• Analyzed the distribution of practicing orthodontists against estimated regional needs (IOTN 3-5).

Main Results:

• Greece possesses an overall surplus of 55 orthodontists.
• Significant regional disparities exist, with the Ionian Islands underrepresented (47% of need) and Attica overrepresented (183% of need).

Conclusions:

• The developed model indicates adequate overall orthodontic workforce capacity in Greece.
• Significant regional imbalances necessitate targeted workforce redistribution to address shortages and surpluses.