Reframing the Role of Dental and Oral Health Therapists: A Call for Recognition as Advanced Practitioners in New Zealand’s Health System

Abstract

Dental and Oral Health Therapists (DOHTs) have been integral for improving oral health equity in New Zealand for communities of all ages. Although DOHTs have a three-year health sciences degree and clinical control to diagnose, prescribe and interpret radiographs, undertake treatments including minor surgery, provide oversight and guidance for non-registered staff to do minor procedures, their current Public Service Association Allied Health, Scientific and Technical Multiemployer Collective Agreement scale (PSA MECA) which dictates the salary and conditions in the public sector does not reflect their skills or public health contributions, contributing to systemic workforce shortages. Using results from the Dental Council of New Zealand (DCNZ) workforce data and analysis of trends affecting the oral health field, this paper presents why it is essential to reform policies to address the inequalities DOHTs face in the public sector, keep them satisfied in their jobs, and recognise the level of complexity displayed by the profession. This perspective paper proposes DOHTs have same status as Nurse Practitioners or Clinical Psychologists and suggests that they should be given a separate pay structure from other Allied Health practitioners, thereby reflecting the nature of their autonomous role and the clinical responsibilities they independently undertake post-graduation, compared to other health sciences degrees.