As we wrap up 2024, we’re reflecting on a year filled with initiatives, achievements, and collaborations that advanced the dental hygiene profession in British Columbia and beyond. Here’s a look back at all of our blog posts from this year:
Advocacy and Professional Achievements
• BCDHA Commends Federal Commitment to Expand Student Loan Forgiveness Apr 18, 2024 The federal government’s decision to extend the Canada Student Loan Forgiveness Program to dental hygienists in remote communities marks a significant step forward. Read more
• BC Dental Hygienists Applaud Launch of Canada Dental Care Plan May 2, 2024 This major milestone ensured access to oral health care for many Canadians. Read more
• Advocacy Success: Fair Compensation for Dental Hygienists Jul 9, 2024 BCDHA celebrated a major win in advocating for fair compensation for dental hygienists. Read more
• BCDHA Dental Hygienist New Graduate Wage Survey 2024 Jul 22, 2024 We launched a survey to provide reliable data on compensation packages for recent graduates. Read more • Mpox Awareness for BC Dental Hygienists Aug 23, 2024 An update on emerging public health concerns and the role of dental hygienists in prevention. Read more
• Fee Schedule Parity for Independent Dental Hygienists Approved Oct 23, 2024 BCDHA celebrated the federal government’s announcement of pay parity for independent dental hygienists, a milestone for the profession. Read more
• Participate in the Survey to Shape the Future of Dental Hygiene Assessments Dec 2, 2024 The FDHRC is gathering input from Registered Dental Hygienists to update key assessments, ensuring they align with new competencies. Read more
Educational and Professional Development Resources
• Check out the Highlights of the BCDHA at PDC 2024 Mar 11, 2024 A look back at our engagement with members and events at the Pacific Dental Conference. Read more
• Discover Our New Student Resources Section Sep 24, 2024 We launched an expanded section packed with tools, resources, and guidance to support dental hygiene students and new graduates. Read more
Collaborations and Initiatives
• BCACC and BCDHA Announce Innovative Mental Health Resources for Oral Health Practitioners Mar 5, 2024 New resources, developed in collaboration with BCACC, aim to alleviate dental anxiety and improve patient care. Read more
• BC Nurses and Dental Hygienists Team Up to Enhance Oral Health in Long-Term Care Oct 16, 2024 Our partnership with NNPBC was recognized by the Office of the Seniors Advocate, highlighting efforts to integrate dental hygienists into LTC teams. Read more
• Unlock Exclusive Perks with Your BCDHA Membership Oct 24, 2024 From discounts to professional development, we shared the incredible benefits of joining BCDHA. Read more
Celebrations and Recognition
• Say Hello to Our New Executive Director Feb 26, 2024 Cherie Payne joined BCDHA as our new Executive Director, bringing decades of experience in leadership and advocacy. Read more
• Celebrating Seniors Week May 30, 2024 The BCDHA celebrated Seniors’ Week and received a message from the B.C. Seniors Advocate. Read more
• BCDHA Board Chair Leta Zaleski Receives CDHA Award of Merit Oct 24, 2024 Leta Zaleski, our board chair, was honoured with the prestigious CDHA Award of Merit for her exceptional leadership and contributions. Read more
2024 has been an incredible year for BCDHA and the dental hygiene profession. We are grateful for the dedication of our members and partners and look forward to continuing this momentum into 2025.