Mailing Address
Health Professions Regulatory Advisory Council
55 St. Clair Avenue West
Suite 806 Box 18
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
M4V 2Y7

Telephone and Facsimile
Toll-Free: 1-888-377-7746
Telephone: 416-326-1550.
Fax: 416-326-1549

Dental Assistants

Minister's Question and HPRAC's Approach

The Minister's Question

The Minister has asked HPRAC to "advise whether the practice of dental assistants ought to be regulated under the RHPA and if so, what would be the appropriate scope of practice, controlled acts and titles authorized to the profession". He has also asked that the Council "take into account the activities these practitioners undertake with respect to x-rays and other forms of energy and the circumstances in which these are being done".

HPRAC's Approach

When a referral is received from the Minister of Health and Long-Term Care, HPRAC determines relevant public interest concerns and questions. HPRAC attempts to understand all perspectives on an issue including those of key health care practitioners, other affected health care professionals, clients and patients, advocates and regulators. 

Each issue proceeds through a multi-stage process where information and responses are requested from and shared with all concerned stakeholders.

Initially, HPRAC will request that the association representing dental assistants that made the request for consideration of the regulation of a new profession respond within a specified timeline to a detailed questionnaire.  The association's submission will be shared with organizations and individuals with an interest in the matter for their comment and additional information.  HPRAC will independently conduct literature, jurisdictional and jurisprudence reviews, and engage in key informant interviews.  Its analysis of the issues will lead to a determination of additional information required, and the appropriate process to be used.  Watch this site for further information.