Davda L S, Radford D R, Scambler S, Gallagher J E. Accreditation and professional integration experiences of internationally qualified dentists working in the United Kingdom. Hum Resour Health 2022; 20: 7.

Multiple barriers to be overcome

In 2019, 12,007 (28%) dentists registered with the UK General Dental Council qualified overseas. Of these, 57% qualified in the European Economic Area (EEA) and 30% through the Overseas Registration Examination (ORE). A purposive sample of 38 internationally qualified dentists (IQDs) from six World Health Organisation regions, working in a range of settings in the United Kingdom (private and NHS general practice, hospitals and community services), were interviewed.

Barriers to integration included stringent registration exams, language competency and access to training pathways. Non-EEA dentists had more barriers than EEA IQDs. The ORE was perceived as an expensive, lengthy process. One dentist felt, however, that it prepared her well for work in the UK. Foundation training and acquiring a performer number were also not easy for non-EEA IQDs, a situation which was exploited by some practices. Some reported instances of discrimination based on accent, gender and ethnicity. Informal social media support networks were found helpful but little formal support was available.