DRAMeRS: Research with Vocational Dental Practitioners

The first stage of the DRAMeRS research project (Diabetes Risk Assessment: Medical Referral or Signposting) took place earlier this year in a small number of Vocational Training practices across Scotland. The aim of the study is to ascertain whether signposting or direct referral is more effective at facilitating contact between patients identified as being at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes and a healthcare professional.

The first stage involved VDPs conducting risk assessments for type 2 diabetes with their patients. The next stage will begin shortly and will involve participants completing a short online follow-up questionnaire about their experiences. A small group of participants will subsequently be invited to take part in online interviews to discuss their experiences in more detail.