Some variables affecting dentists' desire to use expanded duty dental auxiliaries

A survey of all active practitioners in Rhode Island was conducted to determine which demographic or practice variables or knowledge or attitude variables, or both, might be associated with a desire to use EDDAs. A total of 355 (74.6%) dentists responded to the questionnaire. Of these, 33.4% indicated a desire to use EDDAs, 36.1% were undecided, and another 30.5% did not wish to use EDDAs. A desire to use EDDAs was associated with the following variables: demographic background, continuing education profile, indicators of how busy the practice is, number of hours auxiliaries were employed, practice efficiency indicators, and knowledge and attitude indicators.