FACTORS THAT HINDER FEMALE DENTISTS IN PURSUING THEIR CAREER

Dentistry is a profession where due to the phenomenal growth of Pakistani population, the ratio of dentists to population has greatly decreased and is currently 1:16,426. Another contributing phenomenon in this regard is female dropouts from the profession. Many females occupy a place initially, and leave the profession eventually, whereas a male student having studied dentistry on this seat would have practiced his profession. The Pakistani government spends 7,500 US dollars on the education of a dentist. It actually becomes a double loss of the society. The designated role of a homemaker for females in the family centred society of Pakistan affects the professional lives of these women adversely as it is a heroic task to balance both family and professional life. The overwhelming household and motherhood responsibilities consequently results in, women leaving their occupation at a rate twice that of men. Also women feel strongly that males have stronger personal and professional support systems than women. The government of Pakistan / parents spend millions of rupees on this highly technical and professional education; shall it be transformed into well – educated good house – wives? Pakistan Medical and dental Council (PMDC) does not allow part time work options in teaching institutions and government hospitals. Accepting the women and understanding their requirements to keep up with their family needs and professional demands, is one step forward and this change agent will definitely bring many improvements and reforms.