Dental care professionals (DCPs) have a new opportunity to gain continuing professional development through an innovative assessment unveiled by the Faculty of General Dental Practice (UK).
The Key Skills in Primary Dental Care assessment for DCPs enables all DCP groups to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the seven Key Skills identified by the FGDP (UK) as a core part of delivering a high standard of patient care, namely:
• Medical emergencies
• Infection control
• Record keeping
• Radiography
• Legislation
• Team development
• Communication and complaints handling.
Assessment is via a portfolio of evidence, which will also record workplace achievements and allow candidates to show how they are meeting their professional responsibilities.
Following the successful completion of each Key Skill, candidates will be awarded a certificate which will form a valuable part of a professional development portfolio. Key Skills certification will also contribute to the mandatory CPD requirements to be introduced by the General Dental Council.
The FGDP (UK)’s DCP Officer, Sally Hunter, said: ‘This new initiative is a real step forward for busy DCPs looking for a cost-effective way to gain CPD through distance learning.
‘Working at their own pace, DCPs will have an opportunity to demonstrate a commitment to delivering the best care for their patients. There is also plenty of support from the Faculty, including a study pack for all registrants which provides guidance on how to compile the portfolio.’
The initial registration fee for the assessment is £30, which covers the cost of the support materials and assessment of one Key Skill, with a fee of £20 for each further Key Skill submitted.
To find out more or to register, visit www.fgdp.org.uk/dcp, or contact Sally Hunter on 020 7869 6766 or [email protected].
