Paradigm Transition from the “Department Model” to the “Comprehensive Dental Care” Teaching Model
Abstract Background This study aimed to assess students’ perceptions of the gains and challenges of the patient-centered comprehensive care methodology of dental clinical training. Methods Self-administered questionnaires were completed by 58 out of 93 students following the end of the academic term 2017–2018. Results Most of the students 43 (74%) understood the philosophy behind a holistic approach to patients’ dental care and employing a multidisciplinary style. Students’ self-assessment showed significant preponderance 41 (71%) (P = 0.026) concerning treatment phases and procedural abilities as well as enhancement of their oral rehabilitation case presentations 50 (86%) (P = 0.0001). Half of the students were not able understand what they needed to work on from their daily continuous clinical assessment grades. The comprehensive dental care (CDC) concept helped them gain more confidence 44 (76%) (P = 0.005) and although students benefited from the interaction with specialists and peers the main advantage was having fixed mentors throughout the year (P = 0.000). Conclusions The results, besides highlighting the benefits, also address some of the shortcomings of the comprehensive care curriculum especially when it comes to grading. Consequently, there is a need for standardized and regular calibration exercises for clinical tutors (general practitioners) and specialists to enable them to impart consistent information to clinical graduates. It is also necessary for students to receive sufficient feedback on their assessment grades to help them understand and improve upon their deficiencies.