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Computer use in private dental practice in Australia, 1991
1Department of Preventive Dentistry, University of Sydney.
Australian Dental Journal
|June 1, 1993
Summary
Computer adoption in Australian dental practices has surged to 37%, with accounting and patient billing as primary uses. Many dentists recognize the need for further computer education and plan future integration.
Area of Science:
- Dental Informatics
- Health Information Technology
- Practice Management
Background:
- The 1983/84 Australian Dental Association survey indicated only 9% of practices used computers.
- Current technology adoption rates in private dental practices require updated investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the current prevalence and applications of computer use in Australian private dental practices.
- To identify factors influencing computer adoption and future trends in dental practice technology.
Main Methods:
- A mail questionnaire was sent to a 1:3 sample of Australian Dental Association members in private practice (n=1931).
- Response rate was 70%.
Main Results:
- 37% of practices utilize computers, a significant increase from 9% in 1983/84.
- Key applications include accounting (84%), patient billing (80%), word processing (79%), and patient recall (61%).
- Larger practices are more likely to adopt computers, with secretary/receptionists as principal users.
Conclusions:
- Computer adoption in Australian dental practices has grown substantially.
- Service and software quality are critical for system selection.
- A significant demand for continuing computer education exists among both users and non-users.
