1 - Dental Public Health Workforce Challenges

Abstract: Objective : Dental Public Health (DPH) professionals have an important role in promoting access to dental care and dental care quality. Unfortunately, the pathway to DPH is challenging. A limited number of DPH-specific job positions are available for DPH graduates; therefore, many leave the DPH workforce after graduation, settle for the jobs that do not utilize their skills and training, and squander resources. The aim of this study was to understand challenges and potential solutions from various viewpoints regarding DPH workforce recruitment and retention.

Methods: We performed a summative analysis of recent surveys’ findings conducted by the American Board of Dental Public Health (ABDPH), and interviews of 20 key DPH stakeholders (e.g., ABDPH, AAPHD, ASTDD, and HRSA) (2019-2022) via Zoom videoconference. Recordings were transcribed and analyzed thematically using Dedoose software.

Results: Themes included; shortage of DPH-related job positions at local, state, and federal levels, and in academia; trainees' mismatch between specific skills needed in different sectors; job requirements in DPH (e.g., state licensure) not included in most education program; lack of alignment between DPH education programs, certification bodies, and stakeholders responsible for recruitment and retention; and advocacy for DPH professionals' role in dental workforce. There was no consensus among stakeholders regarding resolution of these challenges.

Conclusions: A coalition of DPH stakeholders is required to understand and address existing DPH workforce challenges. There is a need to align DPH training programs, professional certification, and job opportunities at local, state, and federal levels as well as in dental education.

Source of Funding: Sepideh Banava was supported by NIMHD U24 MD017250, and Health Research, Incorporated A130227 at the University of California San Francisco. The funders played no role in determining the methods or conduct of this study.