Evaluation of the Quality of Practice
In Quebec, all professional orders are governed by the Professional Code, which mandates them to ensure the protection of the public. As part of this mandate, the Ordre des dentistes du Québec (ODQ) administers a professional practice monitoring program developed by its Professional Inspection Committee.
Through this program, the ODQ ensures that dental care provided to the population meets generally recognized standards of practice. The Professional Inspection Program is designed to conduct inspections of all dentists who are members of the Order and practice in Quebec, at varying intervals depending on certain risk factors.
The Program
Approved by the ODQ’s Board of Directors on September 27, 2013, the program includes the following three key components, among others :
- General inspections conducted of varying frequency;
- Targeted inspections focusing on specific areas of practice deemed higher risk;
- Supportive visits for newly registered members of the Order.
Focused on support and prevention, this program not only ensures the quality of dental practice in Quebec but also includes the inspection of dental offices. It aligns with the ODQ’s mission to protect the public. In addition to ensuring compliance with recognized practice standards, the program promotes the improvement of the quality of services offered to patients.
General Inspection Visits
The general inspection visit evaluates all aspects of a dentist’s practice, including :
- Compliance with infection control standards and reprocessing of medical devices;
- Office maintenance and organization;
- Maintenance of equipment;
- Record-keeping practices;
- Quality of professional practice;
- Adherence to generally recognized standards in dentistry.
During the visit, the inspector provides immediate feedback to the dentist on any shortcomings observed. A written report detailing the inspector’s observations and any recommendations from the committee is subsequently sent to the dentist. The dentist is then required to provide, within a specified timeframe, a description of the corrective measures implemented to address the recommendations outlined in the report.
Supportive Visits
Supportive visits are the first professional practice inspections for newly registered members of the ODQ. This applies to recent graduates of Quebec dental faculties and dentists who have obtained their license through a mutual recognition arrangement or an equivalent process.
The purpose of this visit is to guide dentists as they begin their careers, providing them with the information and advice needed for a positive start. Dentists are encouraged to share their questions with the inspector prior to the visit to ensure comprehensive responses. During the visit, in addition to conducting a general inspection, the inspector offers their expertise and experience to support the dentist in this early stage of practice.