29 - The hygienist in the dental team

Dental Protection received a call from a hygienist member in some distress as she had received a letter from the Dental Council, concerning a complaint that had been received from an HIV positive patient who had apparently been refused treatment by the hygienist at the practice. The patient claimed that he had been discriminated against. The complaint had initially been addressed to the employing dentist who unfortunately did not involve the hygienist in his response.

It is interesting to note that when the patient pursued the complaint to the Dental Council, it was the hygienist that was taken to task. With the help of Dental Protection's lawyers, a written response was made to the Council but despite this, the member was summoned to appear before the Conduct Committee, and in due course a hearing was held.

Clarity of communication between the patient and the dental team is essential at all times.