Quality Assurance Program Modernization

One of the three main ways BCCOHP protects the public is by ensuring that oral health professionals are able to practise competently throughout their careers. Quality assurance is an important part of this work.

BCCOHP is working to establish a modernized quality assurance program for all oral health professionals.

The quality assurance programs developed by the legacy colleges that came together to form BCCOHP remained in place upon amalgamation. As a result, we currently have four quality assurance programs with different criteria, processes, and requirements for members of the oral health team.

Establishing a modernized quality assurance program for all oral health professionals is a goal outlined in our 2024-27 Strategic Plan.

Design phase: building a new QA program 

We are currently in the design phase of building a modernized quality assurance program for oral health professionals.   

As part of this work, we have engaged expert consultants to develop a detailed research report to inform our approach toward modernizing quality assurance programs.   

While this work is underway, BCCOHP’s Quality Assurance Committee directed two early changes to the existing QA program for dental hygienists. These changes are intended to begin building equity among existing programs, while continuing to prioritize patient safety. As we continue to build a new, modernized QA program, additional changes may be identified to ensure alignment with our overarching goals of equity and patient safety.   

Project oversight

Three key groups are supporting this work:

• Quality Assurance Working Group: Makes recommendations for the new program and supports development from the design stage through to post-implementation. This working group is made up of oral health professionals and public members with relevant knowledge, skills and experience. This group works with staff and is supported by external consultants.
• Quality Assurance Committee: This group has oversight of the development and administration of the new QA program.
• BCCOHP Board: The Board has broad oversight of strategic initiatives such as this one, as well as the bylaws and budget related to this project