• Chanchai Hosanguan B.Sc. (Hons), D.D.S. (Hons), M.S.

Objectives To evaluate geographic distribution of Chulalongkorn (C.U.) dental graduates under the
policies of compulsory service requirement and universal coverage, and to assess factors associated
with the choice of practice location.

Materials and methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted on a systematic random sample of
C.U. dental graduates from 1975-2004. Two rounds of mail questionnaires were utilized to collect data
on practice location and relating factors. There were 375 respondents. Geographic distribution patterns
were compared among 3 groups of dentists, classified by graduation years with cut points corresponding
to the implementation of both policies. These were group 1: 1975-1988, group 2: 1989-2000, and group
3: 2001-2004.

Results Overall, over half of C.U. dental graduates practiced in Bangkok. Group 2 dentists, graduated
after the era of compulsory service requirement and have fulfilled their obligation, displayed a greater
percentage of provincial practice than group 1 dentists. There seemed to be a wide regional variation of
distribution patterns. Group 3 dentists were most likely to intend to move out of their current practice
location. Personal factors were found to be the most relevant to the choice of practice location; e.g.
convenient transportation, hometown, and potential of high income.

Conclusion This study reflects the interplay of governmental policies and personal factors that could
have an impact on geographic distribution of C.U. dental graduates.

(CU Dent J. 2007;30:85-102)