Does offsite supervision require the dentist to be physically present at the treatment site?

Offsite supervision refers to a situation in which a dental hygienist provides services while the supervising dentist is not physically present at the treatment site. In Washington State, under specific regulations, dentists can delegate certain duties to dental hygienists even when they are not on-site, as long as the hygienists have received appropriate training and the dentist has established clear protocols for patient care.

This delegation allows hygienists to work more independently and respond to patient needs without the requirement for the dentist to be physically present. The ability to provide care without the dentist's presence helps manage patient flow and increases access to dental healthcare, especially in settings such as community clinics where resources may be limited.

In contrast, having the dentist physically present is not a requirement for offsite supervision, which is why the assertion that it necessitates the dentist being onsite is incorrect. Understanding the nuances of supervision types and delegation is crucial for adherence to legal and professional standards in dental hygiene practice.