How the licensure process will evolve

All aspects of dental licensure are continuing to evolve. This article describes the changes that are occurring in the licensure process and projects the direction and magnitude of future changes.

The author predicts that national board examinations will continue to move away from recall of facts and toward assessment of basic science and clinical principles as they apply to clinical decision making and delivery of care. Clinical examinations will continue their evolution to become even more reliable and valid. Licensure by credentials will be adopted by more states, thus addressing concerns about mobility that are expressed by many practitioners.

Despite all of this projected progress, the dental profession should expect elevated public pressure for greater accountability unless it takes a proactive position to ensure the continued competency of all practitioners.