European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine

Abstract

Purpose of the study was to evaluate the dimensionality of ethical perceptions of principle of autonomy with Dental Practitioners in Delhi NCR in India. A cross sectional survey was conducted by non-probability purposive sampling method to ensure pro rata representation of all categories of practicing dentists of 500 DPs in Delhi NCR from a list available at Dental Council of India available online. 340 DPs responded to the 11 item questionnaire on the three dimensions of ethical principle of Autonomy. The three dimensional structure was extracted by exploratory factor analysis and validated through confirmatory factor analysis thus providing support for the component dimensions of Patient involvement, Informed consent and Patient Records and Confidentiality. The results of post hoc analysis show that Dental Practitioners s age, education level and work experience have significant effect on ethical perceptions of specific dimensions of Informed consent and Patient Confidentiality and records. The study addresses the paucity of studies on this theme and provides guidance by identifying the ethical perception gaps to be addressed by the Profession for better delivery of quality and standards. The study also contributes by identifying the factors influencing ethical perceptions of DPs which can be addressed by the regulatory authorities