The Graduating European Dentist-Domain III: Patient-Centred Care.

Area of Science:

• Dental Education
• Patient-Centred Care
• Evidence-Based Dentistry

Background:

• Patient-centred care is increasingly emphasized in dental literature and policy.
• Dentists must integrate evidence-based practice with understanding the scientific basis of treatments.
• Effective patient evaluation requires strong listening, information collation, and recording skills.

Purpose of the Study:

• To define the competencies and learning outcomes for graduating European dentists in patient-centred care.
• To outline the essential skills required for effective patient-centred dental practice.

Main Methods:

• This is a position paper, outlining established and recommended practices.
• It synthesizes literature and policy documents related to dental education and patient care.

Main Results:

• Key competencies include understanding the scientific basis of care and effective patient information gathering.
• Cultural competence, encompassing social, cultural, and linguistic needs, is crucial for treatment planning.
• Graduating dentists must demonstrate proficiency in patient communication and information management.

Conclusions:

• Achieving patient-centred care requires a holistic approach beyond clinical skills.
• Dentists need specific training in communication, cultural awareness, and evidence-based practice.
• These competencies ensure practitioners can effectively plan and deliver patient-centred dental care.