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Do dentists refer orthodontic patients inappropriately?
1Department of Dental Medicine and Surgery, University Dental School of Manchester.
British Dental Journal
|August 24, 1996
Summary
Excessive orthodontic waiting lists may stem from unnecessary patient referrals. This study found significant variation in general dental practitioner referral rates, with many patients referred inappropriately, highlighting a need for clear referral guidelines.
Area of Science:
- Dental Public Health
- Orthodontics
- Healthcare Management
Background:
- Long waiting lists for new orthodontic patient consultations are a concern for both providers and patients.
- Unnecessary patient referrals may contribute to the excessive length of these waiting lists.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if inappropriate referrals for new patient orthodontic consultations represent a significant issue.
- To evaluate general dental practitioner (GDP) referral patterns to orthodontic secondary care.
Main Methods:
- The study was conducted in two Family Health Services Authority (FHSA) areas in Northern England.
- It involved a two-stage evaluation: first, assessing GDP referral patterns, and second, collecting data on referred patients.
Main Results:
- A notable variation in referral rates was observed among different GDPs.
- A substantial number of patients were referred unnecessarily for orthodontic consultations.
- No correlation was found between a dentist's referral rate and the proportion of inappropriate referrals.
Conclusions:
- Inappropriate referrals are a significant problem contributing to long orthodontic waiting lists.
- Clear referral guidelines for orthodontic treatment are necessary.
- These guidelines should be disseminated to all general dental practitioners.