Background: The primary objective of this study is to provide objective, em
pirical, evidence-based practice management information. This is a hitherto
under-researched area of considerable interest for both the practitioner a
nd educator.
Methods: A questionnaire eliciting a mix of structured and free text respon
ses was administered to a random sample of 480 practitioners who are member
s of the American Academy of Periodontology. Potential respondents not in p
rivate practice were excluded and the next listed person substituted,
Results: The results provide demographic and descriptive information about
some of the main issues and problems facing practice managers, central to w
hich are information technology (IT), financial, people management, and mar
keting. Human resource and marketing management appear to represent the big
gest challenges.
Conclusions: Periodontists running practices would prefer more information,
development, and support in dealing with IT, finance, marketing, and peopl
e management. The empirical evidence reported here suggests that although t
ailored educational programs on key management issues at both undergraduate
and postgraduate levels have become ubiquitous, nevertheless some responde
nts seek further training opportunities. Evidence-based practice management
information will be invaluable to the clinician considering strategic and
marketing planning, and also for those responsible for the design and condu
ct of predoctoral and postdoctoral programs.