The knowledge and attitudes of orthodontic trainees towards orthodontic therapists: a national survey.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the knowledge and attitudes of orthodontic trainees towards orthodontic therapists (OTs) in the UK.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional survey.

SETTING

UK-based orthodontic trainees.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An electronic survey was sent to all members of the Training Grades Group of the British Orthodontic Society assessing exposure to OTs and their knowledge regarding current supervision guidelines and scope of practice. Attitudes towards OTs were also explored.

RESULTS

Seventy-six responses (response rate 57%) were returned. Nearly 90% of trainees had no formal training regarding OTs. A total of 15.5% were aware of the correct current supervision guidelines and there was large variation in the knowledge of OTs' scope of practice. The majority of trainees were happy to supervise OTs, but only 22.4% felt prepared for this during training. In total, 63% of trainees felt that OTs could impact their own future job prospects.

CONCLUSIONS

Currently, there is minimal formal training provided to trainees regarding the role of OTs. This is reflected in the lack of knowledge regarding supervision guidelines and scope of practice. Overall, trainees felt OTs were positive for the workforce but were concerned regarding the impact of their own future employment.