To Whom it May Concern

     It has recently come to my attention that a proposed amendment to the current state of acceptance of dental school programs accredited by Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada (CDAC) is in progress.  I am firmly in support of this petition and hope to see change forthcoming.

     It is my understanding that there is an existing reciprocal agreement between both the CDAC and the CODA which currently recognizes accredited Dental Hygiene programs across both countries.  In recognizing this I also understand that each State operates registration independently through their own dental organizations.

     With CDAC and CODA currently having the reciprocal agreement, both organizations have agreed through much research and understanding that the accreditation process remains rigorous and similar in equivalency in both Canada and the USA.  If a registered, licensed clinician in Canada or the USA has successfully written the board exam in either/both countries and demonstrated competency to practice dental hygiene why would they need to complete any additional training to demonstrate eligibility to practice?

     As a practicing dental hygienist and part time educator in Ontario Canada I can attest to the educational training and qualifications each clinician must attain in order to demonstrate the knowledge, judgement and skill required in the field of dental hygiene.  In addition to the required training through an accredited institution and passing a rigorous board exam, the college of Dental Hygienists of Ontario has designed a mandatory Quality Assurance Program to ensure that continuing education and learning occurs to provide optimal, current client centered care.

     In my opinion, a Canadian or American clinician who demonstrates professional competency graduating from an accredited institution and undergoing testing of similar National Board exams should be given equal opportunity for employment in either/both countries.  Especially considering the existing reciprocal agreement already in place between CODA and CDAC.

     Thank you for taking the time to consider this comment regarding your public petition for rule making:  Acceptance of dental programs accredited by CDAC.  It appears to me that by acknowledging this petition and opening up public/professional opinion regarding this proposed aforementioned amendment it is an indication that your organization is open to policy changes in the future.

Sincerely,

Tanya Rygersberg RDH (Self Initiated)