Publication:

Perceived barriers of General Dental Practitioners in the North-East of England to the provision of Implant-Supported Over-Dentures (2008)

Author(s): Field JC

    Abstract: Aim: To determine the perceived barriers of General Dental Practitioners (GDPs) to the provision of Implant Supported Mandibular Over-Dentures (ISMODs). Subjects and Methods: 362 registered GDPs in the North-East of England were sent postal questionnaires developed using mixed qualitative methods. GDPs were presented with a scenario of a patient unable to manage a well made lower denture on a severely resorbed ridge. The questionnaire led them through the decision making/negotiation stages of ISMOD provision (considering, discussing, offering, delivering and referring); at each stage they were asked to select any perceived barriers. Results: 217 responses were received (74% of eligible GDPs). While 12% would never consider ISMODs, 23% would always consider. The major barrier to consideration was the GDPs’ perception of the ability of the patient to pay (PAPP) (70%). In the sub-set of those proceeding to offer ISMODs, 10% would always provide the treatment themselves and 66% would always refer the patient elsewhere. The major barrier to delivery at this stage was a lack of training/experience (89%); only 13% found ‘PAPP’ a barrier. Univariate analyses showed significant associations with behaviour for gender, age, distance to nearest referral centre, accessibility of public transport and qualifications (P<0.05). Conclusions: There were strong financial themes across all treatment negotiation stages. Those who never considered or discussed ISMODs identified ‘PAPP’ as the main barrier to provision. However those who proceeded to offer ISMODs identified lack of training/experience as the main barrier to provision. Several significant associations between demographics and GDP behaviour were identified. This study provides evidence that micro-decision making does occur in relation to resource allocation.

    Notes: This presentation won the Schottlander Oral Presentation Prize 2008

      • Date: 15-18 March 2008
      • Conference Name: British Society for the Study of Prosthetic Dentistry Annual Conference Oral Presentations
      • Publication type: Conference Proceedings (inc. abstract)
      • Bibliographic status: Unknown
      Staff

      Dr James Field
      Clinical Fellow in Restorative Dentistry