We found a match
Your institution may have access to this item. Find your institution then sign in to continue.
- Title
A Survey of Massachusetts Dental Hygienists: Practice Settings, Interest in Educational Advancement, and Career Satisfaction in All Settings.
- Authors
LaSpina, Lisa; August, Jessica; Morrison, Paula; Soal, Katherine; Pelullo, Katherine
- Abstract
Problem: Registered dental hygienists have an obligation to themselves and the community to deliver the highest quality of oral health care. Dental hygienists seek employment in private practice, education, corporations, community health centers, and alternative settings such as nursing homes and schools. Nationally the employment of dental hygienists is projected to grow 19 percent from 2014 to 2024. With increased numbers of dental hygienists entering the workforce, the American Dental Hygienists' Association-Massachusetts seeks to identify demographics, practice settings, interest in professional advancement, and career satisfaction. Survey data obtained can be used to improve the workplace of dental hygienists so they may continue to serve the public. Objectives: The purpose of this study is to investigate the current landscape including practice settings, interest in educational advancement, and level of job satisfaction of dental hygienists in Massachusetts. Methodology: This study used a quantitative survey research design with probability sampling. Data was collected using a convenience sample of 50 dental hygienists practicing in Massachusetts. The instrument used in the study contained questions regarding demographics, education levels, years of practice, employment status and settings, office location, hourly wages, benefits, membership in the American Dental Hygienists' Association (ADHA), interest in advancing as a midlevel provider, and career satisfaction of dental hygienists. Survey information was obtained through the use of SurveyMonkey®, and all responses remained confidential. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics. Statistical analyses were performed using STATA statistical analysis software. IRB approval was obtained from MCPHS University. Results: Results indicate the majority of dental hygienists who participated in the survey were Caucasian (90%) females (100%) ages 41 to 65 (72%) who are members of the ADHA (70%). Participants initially earned an Associate Degree in Dental Hygiene (86%). Those who pursued higher education (44%) were attracted to personal growth (82%). Less than half of the participants indicated an interest in pursuing a degree to be a mid-level provider (41%). A majority of participants are paid on an hourly basis (80%), treat 8 to 10 patients a day (57%), and earn over $35 an hour (78%). The most prevalent response to all 5-point Likert scale questions regarding personal satisfaction, satisfaction for patient care, and confidence in providing adequate care to patients was "Strongly Agree" (range 45% - 60%). Conclusions: Results indicate dental hygienists expressed a high level of career satisfaction, an interest in personal and professional growth, and plan for continued employment in the field of dental hygiene. Further research is warranted.
- Publication
Journal of Dental Hygiene, 2017, Vol 91, Issue 2, p62
- ISSN
1043-254X
- Publication type
Academic Journal