What is Accreditation?
Accreditation is a voluntary process for private dental practices that supports continuous quality improvement. It involves assessment against the National Safety and Quality Health Service (NSQHS) Standards that are applicable to dentistry.
The accreditation program promotes structured systems and processes designed to support patient safety and quality care.
The relevant standards include:
- Governance for Safety and Quality in Health Service Organisations.
Processes that support clinical, professional, and administrative quality systems. - Communicating with consumers
Supporting clear communication and informed decision-making between patients and practitioners. - Preventing and Controlling Healthcare Associated Infections
Infection prevention protocols, sterilisation procedures, and staff health requirements. - Medication Safety
Systems to support appropriate prescribing and medication management. - Patient Identification and Procedure Matching
Processes designed to reduce the risk of treatment errors. - Clinical Handover
Communication systems that support continuity of care between practitioners and healthcare settings.
How does Accreditation impact patients?
Accreditation demonstrates that a practice has undergone independent assessment against recognised national standards. It reflects a commitment to maintaining structured systems that support patient safety and ongoing quality improvement.
Accreditation is voluntary for private dental practices.
How do Practices Become Accredited?
The Dental Board of Australia regulates dental practitioners. Practice accreditation is provided through approved accrediting agencies such as QIP.
Accreditation involves an external review process and operates on a cycle, typically every two years. Practices must demonstrate compliance with relevant standards relating to safety, quality systems, and clinical processes.
Further information regarding accreditation standards is available through QIP and the Australian Dental Council website.
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