Employment experiences of the oral health workforce in rural New South Wales: a qualitative study

Introduction: Rural oral health practitioners in New South Wales (NSW) face unique challenges related to workforce shortages, professional isolation and limited access to specialist services. Despite the critical role they play in providing oral health care to rural communities, little research has explored this workforce’s experiences. This study aims to explore these experiences as specifically the clinical, cultural and personal aspects of them. Methods: This qualitative study utilises an inductive research design and follows Braun and Clarke’s framework for thematic analysis. Virtual semi-structured interviews were conducted with five oral health practitioners working in three participating rural Local Health District in NSW. Results: Four key, interconnected themes were identified: (1) workforce recruitment and retention difficulties, (2) financial challenges and inadequate rural incentives, (3) barriers to accessing professional development opportunities, and (4) limitations to specialised oral health services access. Conclusion: This study highlights the complex challenges faced by rural oral health practitioners in NSW. Addressing workforce shortages, improving financial incentives, expanding CPD access and strengthening service delivery models are crucial for sustaining the rural oral health workforce. Targeted policy interventions and support systems are needed to enhance workforce retention and improve oral health access and therefore, outcomes, in rural communities.