This study examined stakeholder perspectives of the University of Otago Bachelor of Dental Surgery 2012–2013 clinical outplacement programme, involving 6 Māori Oral Health Providers (MOHPs) in the North Island (NZ). Pre- and post-outplacement online questionnaires were completed by 68 students; clinical supervisors from all 6 MOHPs were surveyed twice over a 12-month period (31 responses were received). Paper questionnaires were used to survey adult clients and caregivers of child clients that the students treated; 426 client and 130 caregiver questionnaire responses were received from 5 MOHPs. The majority (79%) of students felt well prepared for outplacement and 75% indicated that they would consider working for a MOHP in future. Nearly all of the clinical supervisors (93%) indicated that the students were adequately prepared for outplacement and 68% stated that they would recommend one or more students for employment. However, 58% associated the outplacements with decreased productivity. Almost 98% of adult clients and caregivers of child clients were pleased with the care that the students provided. The study researchers conclude with recommendations intended to inform and strengthen the programme’s ongoing development: increase communication between the Faculty, MOHPs and students; address the financial cost of the programme to the MOHPs; and provide more support for clinical supervisors.
