The perception of patients of the professionalism of dental students at a Tertiary Oral Health Centre, South Africa

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Professionalism in the healthcare setting refers to the standards a patient can expect from his/her healthcare practitioner (HCP). Appearance, behaviour, attitude and communication skills are all attributes of professionalism AIM: To assess the perceptions of patients of the professionalism of oral health students at an South African Tertiary Oral Health Care Centre (SA-OHC METHODS: A cross-sectional, analytical study was conducted using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Photographs depicting various dress codes were included in the questionnaire given to patients RESULTS: A total of 118 patients with a mean age of 44 years (sd-18.16) were interviewed. The majority (n=76; 65%) were previously booked patients; 72% female; 53% black; and 85% in the earning category of up to R3000 p/m. The Cronbach alpha score was good at 0.7. 96% of patients agreed that the students looked professional in lab coats (79.5%), then surgical gowns (55.9%) and thirdly scrubs (50.9%) although not in formal wear (66%. In terms of communication skills and behaviour, students were highly rated (91%-99%). Payment classification, education level and gender influenced patient perceptions (p<0.05 CONCLUSION: Students were highly regarded by patients generally, and patients perceived lab coats and surgical gowns to be more professional than formal garb