Evaluating the efficacy of an innovative dental intern program in a public dental service.

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a Dental Intern Program (DIP) at Monash Health, focusing on the experiences of mentors, dental interns (DI) and patients. It seeks to identify strengths and weaknesses within the programme and its impact on clinical skills, judgement and patient satisfaction. Methods: Qualitative feedback was collected from mentors and DI through interviews and discussions, while quantitative data were gathered from patient surveys before and after the implementation of the DIP. The analysis focused on themes related to confidence levels, skill development, mentor support and patient satisfaction. Results: Mentors emphasised the need for tailored tutorials and more practical opportunities for skill development. They noted gaps in DIs' skills in specific areas due to limitations in clinical exposure. DIs reported a positive experience, highlighting the importance of individualised learning goals and the supportive mentor-intern relationship, which fostered confidence and clinical judgement. Patient feedback indicated high satisfaction levels, with significant improvements in care quality and staff confidence post-programme implementation. Quantitative data revealed a statistically significant increase in DIs' confidence (p < 0.05) and a notable rise in patient compliments and decrease in complaints after the implementation of the DIP (p < 0.001). Conclusion: This study emphasises the critical role of tailored mentoring and a structured DIP in enhancing clinical proficiency and patient care for a DI in their first year of career development. The findings contribute valuable insights into the dynamics of dental graduates' training and their implications for the recruitment of local graduates and their retention in the public sector. Keywords: clinician development; dental intern program; dental interns; mentorship; professional development; public dental health care.