ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVES: Because of the irrational use of antibiotics, antimicrobial resistance is now a global concern that requires developing effective strategies against. The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge gap that causes the irrational use of antibiotics among Thai dentists. METHODS: Thai dentists were asked to complete an online questionnaire regarding their knowledge, perception, and attitude towards rationale antibiotic use. The survey was conducted during November to December 2018. RESULTS: Online questionnaires were completed by 588 dentists. Most respondents had a positive perception and were aware of the rational use of antibiotics. However, the use of antibiotics without proper indication and the lack of pharmacological knowledge were found. A mobile application was considered the most preferable approach to manage knowledge for rational drug use. CONCLUSION: Irrational drug use among Thai dentists can be caused by lack of knowledge, attitude, and the perception of each dentist. Policy makers should promote self-learning through knowledge management strategies that can complement the pharmacology courses taught in dental school.
Subject(s)
Anti-Bacterial Agents/administration & dosage , Dentists/psychology , Quality of Health Care , Adult , Aged , Female , Health Care Surveys , Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice , Humans , Male , Middle Aged , Young AdultABSTRACT
OBJECTIVES: This study investigated the perception of dental students on becoming innovative healthcare professionals. The specific objective was to identify aspects of innovative healthcare development that could spur their interest in becoming more involved in healthcare research and new product development. METHODS: Survey research was conducted via questionnaires using a five-point Likert scale response. Based on the innovation science literature, each questionnaire comprised three sets of questions that might foster dental students' interest in healthcare innovation development. Data were obtained from 265 students from years 2, 4 and 6. RESULTS: Three critical dimensions of dental student's preferences were revealed. First, socially related goals were identified as important for developing healthcare innovation. Second, non-traditional learning activities, especially lectures from experienced innovators or an industrial trip were suggested to foster interest in healthcare innovation. Third, the students thought it was important to learn about the research process that translates scientific findings into healthcare innovation. CONCLUSIONS: This study identifies potential ways to develop dental clinicians' interest in becoming innovative professionals who are involved in healthcare product development. This is especially true for Thailand where commercially based innovation has not yet flourished.
