Evaluation of Postgraduate Foundation Training for Dental Therapists: Does participation enhance career prospects?

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: This study explored the value of dental therapy foundation training (DTFT) in the UK and how participation influenced career prospects. METHODS: The study used a survey incorporating open, closed, Likert scale and multiple-choice questions. Quantitative data were analysed with IBM SPSS Statistics v26. Analysis of qualitative data was undertaken by two researchers. Final themes and subthemes were confirmed following round table discussions. RESULTS: 94 survey responses, 61 from DTs who had not undertaken DTFT (Group A) and 33 who had undertaken DTFT (Group B). Most respondents were female (95%) with a mean age of 33.8 and 32.9 years respectively. 58.3% of Group A respondents did not believe that completing DTFT would have enhanced their career prospects, whereas 63.6% of Group B said that they gained a position as a result of completing DTFT. Participation in DTFT increased perceived clinical confidence in Group B and 81.8% were likely to recommend DTFT to their peers. A total of 13 major themes and 12 subthemes were identified. CONCLUSIONS: DTFT schemes were considered a valuable educational experience which increased clinical confidence. Participation may have enhanced career prospects. Barriers were encountered by DTs when seeking work, regardless of participation in DTFT.