James Hunter - Filling the Gap in Africa E178

DENTOLOGY - The Business of Dentistry

In this episode of the Dentology podcast, Dr. James Hunter shares his unique journey from a global upbringing to becoming a dentist. He discusses his early life in Singapore, Colorado, and Oxford, and how these experiences have shaped his worldview.

He reflects on his transition from studying theology to dentistry, the challenges faced during his foundation training amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, and his upcoming family move to Liberia to provide dental care in a country with a severe shortage of dentists.

He talks about the political landscape of Liberia, the challenges of relocating with a family, the impact of dental practice on community health, and his plans to integrate family life within a new culture.

Topics:

- How did your early years set you up for the person you are today?

- What work did your parents do?

- You studied at Cardiff Dental School but wasn’t your first degree, was it?

- Your Foundation Training year fell during the Covid lockdowns, how did this impact your ability to get some practical experience?

- Tell us about the associate position at the practice in Cornwall and what dentistry is Cornwall is like?

- Tell us about your new adventure to the West African country of Liberia. How did this come about?

- Talk us through the landscape of this country and what oral healthcare looks like?

- What do you think will be early challenges moving to the west coast of Africa?

- What is the plan while you are there – treat or treat and train others?

- What will family life look like for you?

- How can people keep in touch with your experience?