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- Title
Returning home with a bargain or a burden? New Zealand dentists' perceptions of the impact of dental tourism on patients and practices.
- Authors
Lovelock, B.; Burnett, A.; Moon, G.; Roessler, D.; Lyons, K.
- Abstract
Background and objectives: Dental tourism is the largest component of the growing global medical tourism industry. This study explores New Zealand dentists' perceptions of the impact of outbound dental tourism on patients and practices. Methods: This study is a follow up to a 2017 national survey of New Zealand dentists about dental tourism in which respondents self-identified for an interview. Interviews, either face-to-face, online or by telephone, were conducted with 20 dental professionals. Interview data were thematically analysed. Results: Participants recognised the validity of lower treatment cost as a motivator for dental tourism but expressed concerns about its impact on patients and dental practices. Concerns included the paucity of informed consent for patients receiving treatment abroad, the poor quality of some treatments provided, the use of dental componentry (e.g. implants) which is often unfamiliar in New Zealand, and a lack of focus on the underlying dental health conditions of patients. These issues are exacerbated by a lack of treatment records and poor follow-up and maintenance. Participants raised concerns about the roles and responsibilities of New Zealand dentists in terms of providing advice to patients who may be prospective dental tourists, and also treating returned patients who have experienced complications from their treatment abroad. A loss of trust between the dentist and patient was reported. Conclusions: Overall, the findings from this study reflect that the medical/dental tourism supply chain does not recognise or involve dental professionals from the dental tourist generating region. This poses potential risks for patients and problems for dentists. Possible solutions include clarifying the roles of dental professionals in relation to advising and treating would- be and returned dental tourists, accompanied by dental professional bodies playing a role in educating the public about dental tourism.
- Publication
New Zealand Dental Journal, 2023, Vol 119, Issue 3, p135
- ISSN
0028-8047
- Publication type
Academic Journal