The Investigation of Patient Procurement in Dental Hygiene Programs in Wisconsin and the Impact on Student Retention

Abstract

This study focused on investigating the methods and processes of procuring patients in the seven dental hygiene programs in Wisconsin. The information obtained by this research identified best practices in the processes in place. The dental hygiene programs are bound by strict guidelines and programs are overseen by the Commission on Dental Accreditation. Each program shares course and program outcomes but clinical requirements vary. This investigation revealed that although every Dental Hygiene program has very specific processes in place that students must use to procure patients for the clinical requirements of the program, there are best practices that other programs can potentially use. These best practices can further aid programs in the area of retention and student success in the dental hygiene program.