The dental core training experience: the views of trainees and their postgraduate training leads

Bullock, Alison ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3800-2186, Bartlett, Sophie ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6958-0910, Cowpe, Jonathan and Dickenson, Andrew 2020. The dental core training experience: the views of trainees and their postgraduate training leads. British Dental Journal 228 , pp. 952-956. 10.1038/s41415-020-1706-4

PDF - Accepted Post-Print Version Download (197kB)

Abstract

Introduction Dental core training (DCT) is an optional, postgraduate programme with a duration of one to three years that dentists in the UK can pursue to further strengthen their skillset. Aims To understand career motivations and preferences of trainees pursuing DCT, and their perceptions and experiences of the programme. Methods Data were gathered from 176 DCT trainees across England through focus groups or individual paper-based responses to questions, as well as telephone interviews with ten associate postgraduate dental deans/training programme directors. Results Trainees were generally positive about their overall DCT experience. They developed confidence, self-reliance and skills in teamwork and clinical aspects, gaining from exposure to conditions uncommon in general practice. Limitations and challenges varied by post and unit. The importance of broad, cross-specialty experience was recognised. Although run-through training would eliminate unwelcome annual relocation, it was deemed unsuitable for all trainees, particularly those intending a career in general practice. Conclusion DCT appears to be advantageous for those intending careers in general dental practice, those aiming for specialist practice and those uncertain of their future career trajectory. Although trainees reported positive training experiences and significant gains, future considerations are suggested, including maintaining flexibility to accommodate different motives for DCT and limiting across-unit variation.

Item Type:	Article
Date Type:	Publication
Status:	Published
Schools:	Cardiff Unit for Research and Evaluation in Medical and Dental Education (CUREMeDE) Social Sciences (Includes Criminology and Education)
Publisher:	Nature Publishing Group
ISSN:	0007-0610
Funders:	Health education England
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	12 June 2020
Date of Acceptance:	1 April 2020
Last Modified:	06 Nov 2023 22:51
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/132381

Citation Data

Cited 5 times in Scopus. View in Scopus. Powered By Scopus® Data

Actions (repository staff only)

Edit Item