Examinations for overseas-trained dentists in Australia and the UK: formative and summative feedback

Abstract

Examinations for overseas-trained dentists are enforced to qualify for registration to perform dental practices in some countries. Feedback on the examinations in Australia and the UK is presented as formative and summative evaluations from a participant and practitioner's perspective. The formats of both examinations are analysed with the foci of the composition, implementation and standard-setting/standardisation in practical tests. The structures of the examinations are formulated in a different manner, resulting in different pass rates. Some administrative errors and loopholes are identified in the implementation. The issue of reliability is raised for the acceptability of the practical examination. Among components of the examinations, establishing the relationship and communicating with patients is more valued to practitioners trained overseas, along with medical emergency protocols for patients' safety. To better evaluate the competency of overseas-trained dentists in Australia and the UK, three suggestions are proposed. Firstly, the examination governing body should ask for and refer to feedback from actively practising dentists passing through the qualification process. Next, the examinations should redirect the target of competency from dental manikin-based dexterity to a more comprehensive evaluation. Finally, the equivalent level of qualifying competency for the examinations described in official publications may need to be revisited.