New research reveals dentists are more influenced by their colleagues than anything else when investing in high tech equipment for the surgery.
The BDTA’s recent research project investigating dentists’ attitudes towards innovation and training suggests peer recommendation remains the main motivator when purchasing of new technology.
66% of respondents stated peer recommendation as a major factor, closely followed by lectures/seminars, selected by 61% of respondents.
Other findings from the research include:
• Well over half of the dentists surveyed (56%) have integrated practice management software, an increase from 48% in 2008/9
• Intention to purchase levels remain highest for intra oral digital radiography
• Uptake of a number of technologies is higher amongst primarily private practices
• Levels of in-surgery internet access have increased significantly from 66% in 2008/9 to 80% in 2009/10
• Lectures/seminars remain the most popular training methods but the use of online training has increased considerably since last year
• Respondents preferred to attend courses hosted by dental schools (40%), stating that these courses can often be cheaper, whilst still being good quality, evidence based, peer reviewed and unbiased.
More than 200 dentists participated in the research which was conducted by post towards the end of 2009. The BDTA would like to thank all those who participated in the research. A donation has been made to Bridge2Aid for every completed questionnaire returned.
For further information on the BDTA, visit www.bdta.org.uk.
