Characteristics of Pediatric Dentists Who Work When Sick

Presenteeism, or working while sick, results in loss of productivity and risk of spreading disease. The purpose of the present study was to identify current work practices and beliefs related to presenteeism, including demographic and practice factors that may significantly relate to presenteeism among practicing dentists in the United States. A survey of American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry members assessed dentists' practices and beliefs regarding presenteeism. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square test, and multi-variate logistic regression. Most respondents (86 percent) worked at least once while sick in the last year. Years in practice, region, and student debt level were significantly associated with presenteeism after adjusting for confounders. Reasons for presenteeism were related to practice type, gender, years in practice, region, and salary type. The majority of pediatric dentists treat patients while sick. Pediatric dentists are influenced to practice while sick due to perceived economic and social pressures, including meeting expectations of colleagues and patients.