DefinePK

Research Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness of current communication practices between dentists and dental technicians and to assess the technicians' understanding of written prescriptions.

Methodology

This was a questionnaire-based, cross-sectional observational study conducted in Lahore, Pakistan, from August 2023 to May 2024. The sample comprised 50 dental technicians from ten private and public dental laboratories, selected via non-probability convenient sampling. Data on demographics and communication quality were collected using a modified, self-administered standardized questionnaire. The collected data were reviewed for completeness and analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests in SPSS v24.

Methodology Flowchart

                        graph TD;
    A[Institutional Review Board Approval] --> B[Participant Selection via Non-probability Convenient Sampling];
    B --> C[Data Collection using Modified Questionnaire];
    C --> D[On-the-spot Review of Forms for Completeness];
    D --> E[Data Recording and Analysis using SPSS v24];
    E --> F[Derivation of Findings and Conclusion];                    

Discussion

The study identified significant gaps in communication between dentists and dental technicians in Lahore. A preference for direct communication was noted, especially in teaching institutes, contrasting with commercial labs where phone calls were more common. Key problems included insufficient information and the prevalence of blank prescription cards, which compromise the quality of dental prostheses and reflect a global challenge in the field. The study also noted a younger workforce in Lahore compared to previous studies and that 18% of technicians lacked formal education, potentially impacting communication quality. The findings underscore the need for standardized communication protocols, enhanced training, and the adoption of modern digital tools to improve collaboration and patient outcomes.

Key Findings

- Communication preferences varied significantly by workplace (p<0.001); technicians in teaching institutes preferred personal visits (88.5%), while those in commercial labs favored phone calls (50%).
- A majority of technicians (84%) reported positive receptivity from dentists, and 62% felt communication was encouraged.
- A significant issue was the lack of sufficient information, with only 36% of technicians feeling they received adequate details from dentists.
- Regarding blank prescription cards, 50% of technicians consult the clinician for guidance when they receive one.

Conclusion

There are significant differences in communication preferences between technicians in teaching institutes (favoring direct communication) and those in commercial labs (relying on phone calls). Major concerns include insufficient information provided by dentists and the unclear handling of blank prescription cards. The study emphasizes the need for standardized guidelines and improved collaboration to enhance the quality of dental care.

Fact Check

1. The study was conducted from August 2023 to May 2024. This is stated in the Methodology section.
2. The sample consisted of 50 dental technicians from Lahore. This is confirmed in the Methodology section.
3. 64% of technicians reported that the information provided by dentists was insufficient. This is stated in the Results section (Table 2, "Sufficiency of Information Provided by Dentists," No = 32/50, which is 64%).

Mind Map