Evaluation of Satisfaction and Recommendations for Service Enhancement of the Sudan Medical Council Among Sudanese Dentists: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background:

The Sudan Medical Council (SMC) plays a critical role in regulating dental practice and licensing. However, baseline data regarding professional satisfaction with its administrative and regulatory services remains limited. This study aims to evaluate the current satisfaction levels of Sudanese dentists toward SMC services and identify key areas for organizational enhancement.

Methods:

A descriptive, cross-sectional survey was initiated using structured digital questionnaires distributed electronically to practicing Sudanese dental professionals. The survey evaluated satisfaction across multiple operational domains using a 5-point Likert scale. Data collection is currently ongoing; this abstract presents a preliminary analysis of the initial 125 respondents (100 general practitioners and 25 specialists; 113 residing abroad and 12 locally) extracted from the questionnaire database.

Results:

Analysis revealed substantial challenges in current administrative workflows, with 66.4% of respondents reporting overall dissatisfaction (scores \le 2/5). Communication scored the lowest across all domains, with 77.6% rating it as very poor (mean score: 1.45/5). Crucially, administrative delays resulted in severe professional consequences: 45.6% of respondents experienced delays in securing professional licensing, 39.2% faced delayed employment opportunities, and 24.0% suffered direct financial losses. Current digital services were deemed inadequate by 75.2% of the sample, while procedural clarity yielded the highest relative baseline (mean score: 2.59/5).

Conclusion:

The preliminary findings reveal that SMC infrastructure shortcomings have tangible, detrimental impacts on the career progression and financial stability of the Sudanese dental workforce, particularly those residing abroad. While data collection continues to expand the sample size, the initial trends highlight an urgent mandate for the SMC to prioritize complete workflow automation, establish transparent tracking systems, and overhaul its digital communication channels.