Factors influencing dental trainees' choice of training programme and working patterns: a mixed-methods study

Area of Science:

• Dental Education
• Public Health
• Workforce Studies

Background:

• Newly qualified dental trainees (DFTs) in England undergo a crucial foundation training year.
• Understanding their career aspirations and influences is vital for effective dental workforce planning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the training program effectiveness for dental foundation trainees (DFTs).
• To investigate the future career choices and influencing factors for newly qualified dentists.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining a national questionnaire with regional focus groups.
• Data were collected from 226 dental foundation trainees (38.4% response rate) and 41 trainees in focus groups across England.

Main Results:

• Geographical location, proximity to friends/family, and affordability were primary factors in selecting training posts.
• Higher-quality training schemes sometimes superseded location preferences.
• Most trainees aspired to be associates, with a significant interest in private practice and NHS work.
• Women were more inclined towards part-time work due to stress associated with full-time clinical dentistry.

Conclusions:

• Geographical location significantly influences where dentists choose to practice, necessitating strategies to mitigate regional disparities.
• The preference for part-time work among new dentists presents challenges for current dental workforce planning and service delivery.