WSDA alerted members on July 10 of the DQAC Continuing Competency Committee’s intent to bring forward a significant proposal to open rulemaking on a mandatory clinical continuing competency program which included:

• More CE Requirements: In addition to the required 63 hours of continuing education dentists must complete every 3 years, the proposal would have required Washington state dentists to complete an additional 63 hours of continuing education every 3 years.
• Re-certification Exams: The proposal would have required dentists to take an online ADA Oral Clinical Skills Examination (OCSE) every 10 years.
• Practice Evaluations: Under the proposal, a peer dentist would evaluate the office’s facilities, equipment, and training records.

Thank you to all the members who contacted DQAC and attended the meeting in opposition! Together, we successfully defended Washington state’s current rigorous licensing process and continuing education requirements and averted potential unnecessary and inefficient additional requirements.

WSDA’s mission is to empower members to advocate for and provide optimal oral health care. With your support, the Association continues to closely monitor and act as necessary on potential regulations impacting Washington state dentists and your ability to care for your patients.

Not a member and want to support this important work while accessing additional member benefits? Become a WSDA member today!