Skill Mix, Team Working, and Implementation of Direct Access (DWD16MAY26)

AvailabilityPlaces available  Add to basket
SubjectTeamwork
DescriptionThis course is designed to give delegates a clear, up to date understanding of what Direct Access means for dental hygienists and dental therapists, and how dental practices can safely and effectively implement it. Using regulatory guidance, case studies, and interactive discussion, the course will cover the legal boundaries, responsibilities, and best practices of Direct Access, and how practices can use this model to improve patient care and operational efficiency.
Additional information

Participants to be GDC registered

VenueCrown Plaza Royal Victoria, Sheffield  View details
Date & timeSaturday 16 May 2026, 09:30 to 16:30
LecturerDr Fiona sandom  View details
Target audience

Mandatory: Dental Hygienist (£40.00pp discount), or Dental Therapist (£40.00pp discount), or Practice Manager (£40.00pp discount), or Dentist

Course styleWorkshop
CategoryClinical course
CateringRefreshments and lunch
Development outcomeB, D
CPD hours6:00
Cost£80.00 (subject to discounts, see Target audience above)
Aims

To clarify the currently agreed interpretation of the GDC scope of practice as it relates to dental hygienists and dental therapists, and how practices can utilise skill mix, including direct access, to the benefit of their patients and their businesses.

Objectives

1.Participants will be able to describe the current scope of practice for dental therapists and hygienists

2.Participants will be able to write an appropriate treatment plan or referral for a dental therapist or hygienist

3.Participants will be able to use direct access appropriately and safely, to ensure efficient use of skill mix

4.Participants will be able to assess their own competence, confidence and training, and use these to determine what treatments they can and cannot provide to patients

5.Participants will be able to utilise skill mix within current NHS rules and regulations

Learning outcomes
  1. Describe the current scope of practice for dental therapists and hygienists in the NHS and regulatory context and construct an appropriate treatment plan or referral pathway involving dental therapists or hygienists.
  2. Apply direct access principles appropriately and safely to optimise the use of skill mix in practice.
  3. Evaluate their own competence, confidence, and training needs to determine which treatments you can—and cannot—provide.
  4. Utilise skill mix effectively within current NHS rules, regulations, and administrative constraints.