Which of the following best describes an inspection in health regulation?

An inspection in health regulation is primarily focused on assessing compliance with professional practice standards and regulations. This process involves evaluating whether healthcare providers, including dental hygienists, are adhering to the established rules and guidelines that ensure safe and effective care. Regulatory agencies conduct these inspections periodically to monitor practices and ensure they meet legal and professional standards.

The emphasis on compliance in option B highlights the critical function of inspections in promoting safety and quality in healthcare. Healthcare providers are required to follow specific protocols, and these inspections help ensure that these practices are being conducted appropriately, helping to protect patient safety and uphold public trust in the healthcare system.

The other options, while related to health care and regulation, do not accurately define an inspection. A routine check for billing practices focuses solely on financial aspects rather than clinical compliance. Assessing community health needs pertains more to public health planning and resource allocation rather than individual practice compliance. A survey of patient satisfaction is geared towards gathering feedback on patient experiences, which is important but does not involve the regulatory compliance aspect that inspections address.