A positive step
Anticipating a more flexible and transparent system that reflects the evolving nature of dental practice
In July, the General Dental Council (GDC) launched a 10-week public consultation focused on proposed changes to the Specialist List Assessed Application (SLAA) routes, which govern how registered dentists can join the GDC’s specialist lists. These amendments aim to streamline the application process while maintaining rigorous standards for patient safety.
The consultation closed last month, and now we await its outcome. Key proposals include introducing an additional route for UK-trained specialists in oral surgery and orthodontics, merging the remaining 11 specialty routes, and aligning with international recognition regulations. The GDC was seeking stakeholder feedback to ensure clarity and fairness in the specialist registration process.
Oral surgery and orthodontics
A significant aspect of the proposed changes involves the introduction of a new route for specialists in oral surgery and orthodontics with UK-gained qualifications, if they are ineligible for the Certificate of Completion of Specialist Training (CCST). This addresses a major gap, as currently, UK-trained applicants without a National Training Number (NTN) lack a straightforward pathway to specialist listing.
This additional route could open doors for UK-trained professionals who have completed equivalent training but don’t meet the strict criteria for a CCST. These changes are designed to make the system more transparent and inclusive, aligning with the broader goals of improving access to specialist lists for eligible dentists without compromising patient safety.
The remaining 11 specialties
For the remaining specialties, the current SLAA routes will be merged into a single, streamlined application process. This would allow applicants to demonstrate their equivalent skills and experience, reducing administrative complexity and improving efficiency. This change aims to reduce confusion and make the application process clearer and more consistent for specialists across different fields.
By consolidating the various routes, the GDC hopes to make it easier for dentists who have acquired equivalent qualifications and experience – whether through non-traditional routes or international training programmes – to gain entry to the UK’s specialist lists.
International recognition
Changes related to the Recognition of Professional Qualifications and Implementation of International Recognition Agreements (Amendment) Regulations 2023 are also being incorporated. This will establish a new route for dentists trained internationally, ensuring compliance with updated legal requirements. This change reflects the GDC’s commitment to maintaining high standards while ensuring that suitably qualified professionals from outside the UK can enter the specialist workforce.
The GDC acknowledges the potential for future changes in UK legislation concerning the alignment with European Union requirements. If the UK Government decides to remove this alignment, the GDC plans to extend the proposed unified regime for the 11 domestic specialties to oral surgery and orthodontics. This would create a consistent process across all dental specialties, simplifying the regulatory landscape further.
It has already made strides in improving the SLAA process, having successfully reduced application backlogs by bringing the assessment of complex applications in-house. However, regulations, initially established in 2008 under European legislation, have presented ongoing challenges. The proposed reforms are designed to address these issues by making the process more transparent, equitable, and efficient. The GDC’s consultation reflects its desire for a collaborative and transparent regulatory environment. By seeking feedback from stakeholders, the GDC aims to ensure that the new system is fair, clear, and adaptable to the needs of modern dental professionals.
The proposed changes could significantly improve access to specialist registration for UK-trained dentists, particularly in oral surgery and orthodontics. This may lead to a more diverse and inclusive specialist workforce, as well as reducing the administrative burden for applicants. The alignment with international recognition standards will likely improve the UK’s ability to attract qualified dental professionals from abroad, bolstering the workforce and improving patient access to specialist care.
Its consultation has provided an opportunity for interested parties to voice their opinions on the reforms. If implemented, these changes will – it is hope – enhance the fairness and efficiency of the specialist registration process, ensuring that patient safety remains a priority while addressing existing barriers for qualified professionals. The reforms represent a positive step toward a more flexible and transparent system that reflects the evolving nature of dental practice in the UK.