The GDC commissioned the review to understand more about how sexual misconduct is experienced by those who work in dentistry or access dental services, their consequences and what we can do about them.
Researchers from the University of Manchester reviewed 23 eligible studies from across the globe. The research examined the risks posed and potential interventions, while identifying the need for more comprehensive UK-specific research.
The review identified the need for immediate action to ensure that victims and witnesses have access to clear reporting pathways, and are reassured those pathways are safe, effective and supportive.
Sexual misconduct, which can include verbal, nonverbal or physical actions that create a hostile or intimidating working environment, has been significantly under-reported in dentistry. Victims are reluctant to report for reasons including unclear reporting mechanisms, fear of retaliation and lack of trust in administrative support.
The review revealed that between five per cent and 48 per cent of participants indicated they had been the victim of sexual misconduct, depending on the population and context of the studies. The one UK survey of dental professionals and students reported that 41 per cent and 39 per cent of respondents had experienced or witnessed sexual misconduct respectively.
Stefan Czerniawski, executive director of strategy at the GDC, said, "Everyone should feel safe and respected in dentistry, but reports of sexual misconduct tell us that this is not always the case. Sexual misconduct is unacceptable in any context, but it is particularly important that healthcare settings should be safe spaces for everybody. The findings of this review indicate that sexual misconduct is both widespread and under-reported, with victims often reluctant to come forward.
“That should be a concern for everybody who works in dentistry. People with responsibility for dental workplaces should ensure that patients and staff feel themselves to be in a safe and supportive environment and that they have policies and procedures to support that. It is critical that those who come forward feel supported and protected.
“For our part, we will use the findings to underpin further work to address sexual misconduct in the context of professionalism in dentistry.”
Safety as a priority
Dental Protection said the findings of the review highlight the need for more steps to be taken to ensure such behaviour is recognised, reported and acted on, and that staff affected feel supported.
Yvonne Shaw, deputy dental director at Dental Protection, said, “All dental professionals need to be reassured that their safety is a priority.
“Experiencing or witnessing sexual misconduct – whether from a patient or a colleague – can lead to emotional distress and long-term psychological harm. It can also negatively impact an individual’s professional practice which may compromise the quality of patient care.
“It is for this reason that we support the review's recommendations to develop clear standards with respect to sexual misconduct, developing training for dental professionals in setting boundaries, identifying and managing instances of sexual misconduct, and ensuring clear and accessible reporting pathways are established.”
For more information visit https://www.gdc-uk.org/docs/default-source/research/sexual-misconduct-rea-report.pdf