Aims:
To simplify and streamline the Direct access process for DHT.
Objectives:
The speaker will:
- Discuss the history of Direct Access and its current implications for DHT and dental practices.
- Discuss current guidelines and recommendations from various bodies regarding Direct Access.
- Outline steps on how to manage Direct Access patents
- Clarify when and how to offer referrals when needed.
- Discuss how to avoid litigation challenges when seeing patients under Direct Access.
Learning Outcomes
Following the session, the delegates will be able to:
- Appreciate added responsibilities placed on a dental hygienist-therapist when practising under direct access.
- Outline steps necessary to follow to meet the regulations and recommendations if setting-up Direct Access protocol in their practice.
- Recognise abnormalities of the oral cavity and the rest of the patient and raise concerns and refer where appropriate
- Obtain valid consent from the patient before starting treatment, explaining all the relevant options and possible costs
- Plan the delivery of, and carry out, care in the best interests of the patient
- Identify where patients’ needs may differ from the treatment plan and refer patients for advice when and where appropriate
- Discuss the role of the dental hygienist and other members of the dental team in the treatment plan
- Discuss the role of the dental hygienist and other members of the dental team in the patient management process
- Appreciate the need to work as a part of a wider team to support DHTs’ need for anything outside of their scope of practice as well as a second opinion to provide the best treatment and to work in the patient’s best interest.
