Preparedness of UK Dental Graduates for Foundation Training- A Qualitative Study

Poster Abstract: Aims: To explore the concept and key attributes of preparedness of dental graduates for foundation training. Methods: Qualitative research being carried out in the South West region of England. Semi-structured interviews were used to identify the important attributes of preparedness of dental graduates for foundation training. Participants include key stakeholders such as dental academics, dental students, general dental practitioners, foundation trainers and trainees. Purposive sampling was used for this study and recruitment was carried out through an e-mail invitation. Ethical approval for this study was granted by the research ethics committee, Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry. Results: Data collected to date has been transcribed verbatim and thematically analysed using NVivo (QSR Vic, Australia). This is an on-going study and data collected so far has identified several emerging themes which relate to clinical skills, professionalism, communication skills, work environments and business interests. A number of potential needs essential for preparedness of dental graduates are highlighted. Participants have discussed the impact of these issues on the preparedness of dental graduates for foundation training. Conclusions: The study is one of the few qualitative studies which provides useful insights into the key attributes of preparedness of dental graduates as perceived by the stakeholders. The findings may be of interest to dental educators and trainers.