9 in 10 UK Dental Professionals Received Gifts from Patients in the Last Year

UK: A recent survey conducted by the Dental Defence Union (DDU) discloses that a remarkable 90% of dental professionals received gifts or thank-you messages from patients over the past year. Expressing gratitude, patients have chosen various ways to appreciate the care provided by dental practitioners, ranging from traditional offerings like chocolates and flowers to more unconventional tokens.

Common Gifts and Unusual Presents

The survey, encompassing responses from 460 dental professionals, highlights that chocolates were the most common gift, received by 70% of respondents. Following closely, flowers adorned the desks of a third of the surveyed professionals (33%), while 28% found themselves recipients of alcoholic beverages. S

ome unique presents included a homegrown cabbage, a back scratcher, dog toys, and even a sheep (though the latter was declined).

John Makin, the head of the DDU, expressed his satisfaction, noting that dental professionals appreciate the acknowledgment but do not expect gifts, particularly in light of the rising costs of living.

While 89% of dental professionals expressed no concerns about the motives behind gift-giving, the survey revealed that only a small percentage had reservations about potential breaches of professional boundaries (6%) or patients trying to influence decisions (3%). John Makin emphasized the importance of ensuring that gifts do not raise ethical issues.

Guidance from the General Dental Council (GDC) cautions dental professionals to refuse gifts that could impact their professional judgment. A mere 24% of respondents reported having a register for recording received gifts, highlighting an area where increased diligence may be necessary.

Festive Period and Work Schedule

Looking at the festive period, nearly half of dental professionals (49%) reported being as likely to receive gifts as before the pandemic. However, 38% noted that gifts were now less likely. As the survey delved into holiday work schedules, 48% of dental professionals stated they would be working, with a small fraction (3%) dedicating their time on Christmas Day or New Year’s Day.

As dental professionals navigate expressions of gratitude and maintain their commitment to ethical standards, this survey sheds light on the intricate dynamics between practitioners and their appreciative patients.