A written affiliated practice agreement is essential as it establishes the working relationship between a dentist and a hygienist, especially in settings where the hygienist operates independently yet under the oversight of a dentist. This agreement must outline the specific procedures and standing orders that the hygienist is required to follow while providing care. This ensures clarity on the scope of practice, adherence to safety protocols, and compliance with applicable dental regulations.
Including the procedures and standing orders helps maintain a consistent standard of care and ensures that the hygienist’s work aligns with the dentist’s clinical guidelines. By explicitly stating these procedures, both parties can avoid misunderstandings and potential legal issues, ensuring that patient care is delivered safely and effectively within the established framework.
While other elements like financial arrangements, personal qualifications, and patient treatment records are significant, they do not fundamentally define the clinical parameters within which a hygienist must operate. Therefore, the inclusion of procedures and standing orders is crucial in an affiliated practice agreement, aligning with legal and professional standards in dental practice.