AHM introduces cadetship

Australian Health Management (AHM) has moved to address the decline in the number of dentists moving into rural and regional areas by becoming the first dental practice in Australia to launch a Cadetship and Internship Program for final year dentistry students.

The Cadetship Program provides select students with a $15,000 grant and paid, hands-on experience prior to finishing their degree. Upon graduation, cadets receive a job offer from AHM. The Program is actively in place at AHM's country practice in Wagga Wagga and city-based practices in Parramatta and Haymarket.

"This is a great opportunity for young dentists to gain practical experience of the job before leaving university," said Christine Thomas, General Manager of AHM's dental and eyecare practices, "and also helps to build their confidence while they develop invaluable experience. The community also reaps the benefits. Once qualified, the dentists will be enrolled in our Internship program and get experience of working in each of our practices and be offered mentoring and support from senior colleagues. They will also reduce waiting times and extend the services we can provide."

Dental internships have been mandatory in the UK for almost a decade and AHM's Internship Program is based on the UK model.

"AHM is committed to dental education and the organisation has funded seven cadetships for 2005 at a cost of $105,000. The internship program will cost over $1million to implement and we believe it is essential to continue our provision of excellent dental care to patients and members."