Licensing, regulation, and international movement of oral health professionals (ohps)

Abstract

Oral health practice is subject to specific laws and regulations. Clinicians need to be aware of a range of issues involving malpractice and complaints that impact on operations and the provision of health services to their patients. This chapter presents an overview of some of the licensing and regulatory practices for Oral Health Professionals (OHPs) around the world, including some specific examples from Australia and Chile, as case studies. The chapter also provides an overview of major areas of the law from a global perspective, with attention to oral health. The primary objective of these laws and regulations is the protection of the health and safety of the public. As the political and socio-demographic framework or conditions change, these guidelines, laws, and regulations should also evolve, but must continue to ensure high standards of safety in health service delivery.