Independent dental hygiene practice worldwide: a report of two meetings

Following a meeting at the EUROPERIO in Berlin in 2003, a forum on Independent Practice of Dental Hygienists was held at the International Symposium on Dental Hygiene (ISDH) in Madrid July, 2004. The forum was organized and moderated by Beate Gatermann, President of the German Dental Hygiene Association. The participants were asked to address the following issues: population of country/state; population of dentists; population of state recognized dental hygienists (Canada/USA etc.); number of hygienists with 'Diploma' (Europe); duration of dental hygiene education; cost of education (2/3 year base approximately); when and how independent practice began in the country and who must be consulted or approve the application for an independent office (e.g. Health Department); what services are allowed? Can dental hygienists administer local anaesthesia in the dental office, and if so, must a dentist be present? Can dental hygienists purchase the necessary medication for the injection? Does the dental hygienist require additional education to provide local anaesthesia? How are the patients charged? Does the country offer a service fee list? Do insurance companies pay claims of the dental hygienist? What is the approximate average fee per hour charged (Euro/dollars)? Do dentists refer patients to you? If so, do they need a letter of referral? Are dental hygienists allowed to take radiographs in independent dental hygiene offices?