Gender Differences and Predictors of Referral in a Sample of Ontario Dentists

Introduction: Very little is known about what influences a dentistâ s decision to refer to specialists. Research suggests that male and female dentists practice differently, but it is unknown whether or not a gender difference exists in referrals to specialists. This study explores what predicts referrals and to see whether or not a gender difference exists amongst the predictors. Methods: A secondary data analysis of a mail-in survey of Ontario dentists. Quantitative and qualitative analyses were conducted to obtain referral likelihood for fifteen dental services. Results: Dental services requiring multiple appointments or more chair time had the highest number of predictors. Male and female dentists had different predictors of referral indicating a gender difference. Conclusion: Referral to specialists appears to be a complex function of personal, familial, and professional factors with a high variability amongst dentists and across dental services. Gender differences exist with respect to considerations for referral.M.Sc