Stress in dental practice: a qualitative comparison of dentists working within the NHS and those working within an independent capitation scheme.

A qualitative research methodology was used to compare the stress experienced by dentists working under two different systems of remuneration. No absolute difference was found in the levels of stress experienced by the two groups, as measured by a questionnaire measure of stress experience. Both groups of dentists identified patient management, time pressures and staff and practice management as sources of stress, though the independent capitation scheme dentists felt that they were under less time pressure and faced considerably less paperwork. Techniques for stress management identified by the dentists were limited and symptom-focused. The results suggest that, for dentists at least, changing from NHS to an independent capitation scheme is of great benefit.