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Summary
Australia experienced a significant increase in foreign-trained dentists between 1967 and 1980, particularly after 1974. Regulatory action for dentist migration should focus on preventive and restorative measures, not restrictions.
Area of Science:
- Health Policy
- Medical Migration Studies
- Dental Workforce Research
Background:
- Net migration of dentists to Australia has been a notable trend.
- Understanding the dynamics of this migration is crucial for Australian healthcare planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To document the dimension and direction of net dentist migration to Australia.
- To discuss determinants and consequences of this migration.
- To consider the need for regulatory action regarding foreign-trained dentists.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of dentist migration data from 1967 to 1980.
- Discussion of push, pull, and regulatory factors influencing migration.
- Examination of international, quantity, and quality issues related to migration.
Main Results:
- A net inflow of dentists to Australia occurred between 1967 and 1980.
- A significant increase in this inflow was observed after 1974.
- Determinants included push, pull, and regulatory forces; consequences spanned international, quantity, and quality aspects.
Conclusions:
- There is a need for improved data collection on dentist migration.
- Further study is required on the impact of foreign dental graduates on Australian dentistry.
- Restrictive regulatory actions are considered least appropriate; preventive and restorative measures are preferred.