(PO-166) Perceived Outcomes of a Remote, Dental Pipeline Program

Author: Jessica Scates, M.Ed. – Coordinator of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives, University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine
Author: Thikriat Al-Jewair, D.D.S., M.S., FRCD – Assistant Dean for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine
Author: Wendell Carmona, D.D.S. – Program Director, Destination Dental School, University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine
Author: Arian Johnson, D.D.S. – Founder, Destination Dental School, University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine
Submitter: Jessica Scates, M.Ed. – Coordinator of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives, University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine

Introduction: Despite making up 34% of the population, only 10% of dentists are underrepresented minorities (URM). Pipeline programs have increased URM enrollment in dental schools. To increase diversity in the dental profession, the University at Buffalo (UB) School of Dental Medicine (SDM) developed Destination Dental School (DDS), an inaugural, fully-remote pipeline program.

Objectives: To measure perceived knowledge, preparedness and skills of URM students interested in dental school.

Methods: Twenty-four URM students, ages 18-30, from across the U.S., participated in virtual presentations, hands-on activities, Dental Admission Test (DAT) and dental school application sessions, and a capstone research project. Pre- and post-program surveys assessed students’ perceived knowledge of dental medicine, application process, and the DAT, perceived preparation for and likelihood of applying to dental school, and perceived interview and research skills.

Results: Response rates were 100% (pre-survey) and 92% (post-survey). Comparison of pre- and post-survey data revealed an overall improvement in all measures. The number of participants believing they had knowledge in “the field of dental medicine” increased from 37.5% (pre) to 90.9% (post). Similarly, “disciplines in dental medicine” 16.6% to 90.9%; “dental school application process” 37.5% to 86.4% and “DAT” 37.5% to 90.9%. Data also revealed increases in the number of students reporting preparedness to “apply to dental school” 45.8% to 68.2% and likelihood to apply “to dental school” 91.7% to 95.5% and “to UB School of Dental Medicine” 91.7% to 95.5%. Participants reported improvement in “interview skills” 16.7% to 95.5%; “conduct[ing] research” 25% to 86.4%; and familiarity with “research in dental medicine” 0% to 86%.

Conclusion: The program positively impacted students’ perceived knowledge, preparation and likelihood of applying to dental school and interview and research skills. Future evaluation metrics will measure objective program outcomes and impacts.

Sponsors: Aspen Dental, Evolution Dental, Galeota Family, Henry Schein, and Ivoclar Vivadent.