A survey to investigate shortfalls in the dental care professional (DCP) workforce in South Yorkshire in 2004.

AIM: To determine the composition of the dental care professional (DCP) workforce in South Yorkshire, the existence of any training requirements, and future intentions and motivations relating to the provision of National Health Service (NHS) dental care. METHODS: The study used mixed methods and incorporated a cross-sectional postal questionnaire and focus groups. The questionnaire was sent to all NHS dental practices in South Yorkshire (n=201) for completion by a principal general dental practitioner (GDP). Focus groups were held with GDPs in these practices. RESULTS: Responses were received from principal GDPs at 156 practices (78%). A total of 624 dental nurses, 65 dental hygienists and 24 dental therapists were employed in the responding General Dental Services (GDS) practices, representing whole-time equivalents (WTEs) of 458.5, 18.5 and 10.1, respectively. Many practices had current vacancies for DCPs, with 24.9 WTE available for dental nurses, 3.7 WTE for dental hygienists, and 5.0 WTE for dental therapists. Workforce shortages were evident among dental nurses (5.2%), dental hygienists (16.7%), and dental therapists (33.0%). Principal GDPs suggested that improved terms and conditions of employment for DCPs, particularly dental nurses, might aid recruitment and retention in NHS practice. CONCLUSIONS: Respondents perceived that there were shortages in the DCP workforce in South Yorkshire. Initiatives are required to address these shortages.