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

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.