Work

Integrating a funded second degree into Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery specialty training: addressing the current workforce crisis in the UK

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: The UK Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (OMFS) workforce continues to experience significant shortages. A major contributor is attrition during or immediately following the second degree, primarily driven by fragmented training structures and substantial costs for trainees. Despite national recommendations, there is no formal integration of the second degree with speciality training. International models demonstrate that integrated and funded pathways are achievable. This short communication argues that embedding a national funded second degree within OMFS training represents a necessary policy reform and would improve equity of access to support delivery of a sustainable UK OMFS workforce.

Source: Advances in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

DOI: 10.1016/j.adoms.2026.100622

Authors: Krishan Goyal, Shreetama Mukherjee

Institutions: Hillingdon Hospital, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, University College London

Language: English

Topic: Innovations in Medical Education

Subfield: Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Quality education

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,650