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Future dental human resource needs--a qualitative approach
A A Brand1, Rudolph, L Gilbert
1Department of Community Dentistry, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
The Journal of the Dental Association of South Africa = Die Tydskrif Van Die Tandheelkundige Vereniging Van Suid-Afrika
|December 1, 1994
Summary
South African dentists surveyed suggested training fewer dentists and more dental auxiliaries. They also noted concerns about the high cost of private dental practices.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Dental Workforce Planning
- Health Services Research
Background:
- The National Oral Health Survey aimed to understand the perspectives of private practice dentists in South Africa.
- Assessing future human resource needs is crucial for effective healthcare planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To gather and analyze dentists' opinions on future human resource requirements in South African dentistry.
- To identify key themes and predominant views regarding dental workforce composition and services.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative data were collected from 2600 dentists in private practice.
- Responses were analyzed using frequency distribution and classified into five major categories.
Main Results:
- The predominant opinion was to train fewer dentists and increase the number of dental auxiliaries.
- Other significant categories included the need for more dentists in developing areas and concerns over practice costs.
- Less support was given to the need for enhanced preventive and health education services.
Conclusions:
- The findings suggest a perceived surplus of dentists and a need to shift training towards auxiliary dental professionals.
- Addressing the cost of private dental practice and potentially increasing service provision in underserved areas are also key considerations.