title: Shortage of hygienists: a problem--real or perceived?
abstract: The theory that a shortage of dental hygienists exists in Louisiana was investigated through analysis of Louisiana State Board of Dentistry manpower figures, dental hygiene graduate numbers, and responses to a Northeast Louisiana University graduate survey. Results indicating a high attrition rate in the profession led to further exploration. Manpower distribution, utilization, and attrition were factors found relative to a personnel shortage. Suggestions are presented as possible means for beginning changes. The keys to solving the shortage of dental hygienists in Louisiana may be reducing attrition from the profession.
authors.affiliation: Department of Dental Hygiene, Northeast Louisiana University.
authors.forename: M L
authors.initials: ML
authors.lastname: Schnuth
mesh_terms: D003756:Dental Hygienists / Q000600:supply & distribution*; D006801:Humans; D008145:Louisiana