Temporary registration in primary care for dentists moving to the UK from outside the EU: an evaluation of a national pilot scheme

Abstract

An evaluation of a pilot scheme offering temporary registration with the General Dental Council (GDC) for up to six months in primary care for overseas-qualified (non-EU) dentists studying for the International Qualifying Examination (IQE) Part C. In all five pilot sites dental attachments and supervisors were interviewed at the start (n = 10) in 2005. At six months, supervisors were interviewed again (n = 4), and dental attachments were surveyed (n = 5). Patient (n = 15) and staff (n = 27) views were elicited through questionnaires. Hands-on clinical practice was the prime motive for involvement. Patient safety was safeguarded through close supervision of attachments' dental treatment. The value of clinical experience, development of patient management skills, work in a dental team, and familiarity of NHS procedures was highlighted. Feedback from patients and staff was positive: attachments' enthusiasm, approach, willingness to take responsibility, and follow protocols were rated highly. The National Advice Centre for Postgraduate Dental Education (NACPDE), England coordinated the pilot (including selection and matching of candidates to supervisors). They established good links with pilot sites and maintained training standards. Temporary registration with the GDC provided valuable educational opportunities, specifically hands-on experience in primary care beneficial in preparing for IQE Part C. The evaluation demonstrated scope to consolidate the pilot and its expansion has been approved by the GDC.