Training and Calibrating Evaluators for a National Private Dental Office Assessment Program

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Abstract
The work described was conducted to train and calibrate ten general dentists to participate as evaluators in a national program in which methods were developed and tested for the in-office evaluation of private general dental practice. The methods used in conducting six days of initial training are described, as well as the approach taken in establishing the posttraining levels of individual and group calibration achieved. Training and calibration that occurred halfway through a two-year field experience also are described. Techniques employed included the use of slides in lecture format; review of records, radiographs, and other materials from dental offices; examination of patients; use of a videotaped simulation of an office visit; and evaluation of private dental offices by paired evaluators. Calculation of percent of comparability of evaluator performance was used in determining calibration levels. We concluded that evaluators can be trained in six days to achieve a high level of calibration. Additional benefits were derived from the additional training session at the midpoint of field activities. Evaluators perceived themselves to be well prepared as a result of the training described.

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