Objectives: To examine the new role required of the employing dentist in providing workplace based support for Polish dentists working in the UK.
Methods: All employing dentists working with a Polish dentist in the West Midlands in 2005 (n=42) were surveyed. They had between 6-12 months experience in this support role. A sample were interviewed (n=5). Views were sought on the amount and type of support provided by the employing dentist, educational needs of the Polish dentists and standards of practice.
Results: The response rate to the survey was 79%. The main motive for appointing a Polish dentist was to address staff shortages and high need for services.
Employing dentists provided less support on clinical skills than on other more general aspects of work (including writing referral letters, complying with regulations and patient communication). A range of support strategies were employed, including work-shadowing, observation and tutorials. There was wide variation in how formally this support was provided. More than half (56%) were giving day-to-day support at least 6-months into the appointment. Specific clinical areas were suggested for the continuing education of the new employee.
Most employing dentists were impressed with the standard of work although a minority (34%) were less than satisfied and expressed concern about slower rate of work. The majority (66%) intended to employ the dentist beyond the initial 3-year contract.
Conclusions: For many, the appointment of an EU-qualified dentist satisfied an urgent staffing need. However, considerable day-to-day support beyond an initial induction period was required. Employing dentists had been ill-prepared for this new role and would have valued greater guidance.
Funded by West Midlands NHS.