Australian dental students views on a compulsory internship scheme

Abstract

Objective: The National Health and Hospitals Reform Commission Report suggests introducing an internship period for all newly qualified dental/oral health practitioners in Australia. This study gauged the opinions of undergraduates from three dental schools in Australia. Methods: An online survey collected demographic information on gender and age, the program registered for, year and place of study. The level of support for an internship was gauged using a five-point scale. Open-ended questions on the concerns, advantages and disadvantages of an internship concluded the survey. All students in the participating universities were invited to participate via email. Results: There were 445 responses. Forty per cent of students were supportive of an internship scheme. The level of support differed by gender, age, relationship status, having a previous tertiary qualification and year of study. Males, older participants, those with children and those with previous qualifications were less supportive. The main concerns related to issues around choice, family commitments, location of internship placements and salary levels. Conclusion: Support for an internship scheme for dental graduates elicited a divided opinion amongst dental students. Many issues around financing and logistics have to be addressed before any such scheme could be implemented in Australia: there is a need to consult with dental graduates and promote the benefits to the student body.