Title

Optimising skill mix in dentistry: dental therapists, direct access and the future. 

Principal / Lead investigator
Co-investigators / research team
Type of study

Realist evaluation using mixed methods

Summary

Urgent action is required to address problems arising from an ageing population retaining their teeth, high levels of avoidable tooth decay in children and poor access to NHS dental services in parts of Wales.

The study will inform the new NHS dental service contract and is the logical start to a programme of research on the effects (including cost-benefits) of contract changes.

The aim is to better understand how to make the best use of the dental team. We will find out what works, why and in what circumstance. We will develop practical training courses and a self-evaluation toolkit to help dental practices work out how ready they are for skill-mix changes and set action plans.

Who is the study sponsor?

Cardiff University

Does the study involve commercial partnership activity?

To follow

UKCRN portfolio number (if relevant)

To follow

Funder

Health and Care Research Wales RfPPB (Prudent Healthcare)   

Total grant value

£207,651

Start date

01/10/2015

End date

30/12/2017

How could this research potentially benefit patients?

The intention of the study is to better understand how to make the best use of the dental team. We will find out what works, why and in what circumstance. We will develop practical training courses and a self-evaluation toolkit to help dental practices work out how ready they are for skill-mix changes and set action plans.

Further information (e.g. related web link)

http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/news/view/150870-direct-access

Outputs generated (Reports / Publications / Impact) 

Direct Access to Therapists Infographic.pdf
15 December 2015
An infographic showcasing CUREMeDE's optimising skillmix in dentistry project.

http://www.healthandcareresearch.gov.wales/