A new online training course aimed at helping the dental team advise patients on oral health care has been launched.
The new ‘bitesize’ course – from the British Dental Association (BDA) – qualifies dental care professionals (DCPs) to advise patients on oral health.
Over a period of eight weeks, the Oral Health Education for Dental Care Professionals course guides participants through 27 ‘bite-sized’ modules, comprising mini-lectures complemented by animated videos and diagrams.
A tutor supports participants, and a textbook, revision notes and mock exams are also provided.
In dialogue with a supervising dentist, the participant will also identify and work with patients who would especially benefit from oral health advice.
This process involves the creation of a portfolio which, along with a written exam, leads to a National Examining Board for Dental Nurses (NEBDN) Certificate in Oral Health Education, the nationally recognised qualification.
The course has been developed in collaboration with OHE Southwest, Bristol, which has been running successful oral health education programmes since 1996.
The new online format not only allows for improved access and flexibility for participants, but also provides a cost-effective alternative which ensures the value of enhanced patient care, career development and CPD hours.
The cost of the course is £475 per student, with a concessionary rate of £425 per student for staff employed by BDA members.
Further information can be found at www.bda.org.
