BCDHA Celebrates Milestone Achievement in Securing Pay Parity for Independent Dental Hygienists
The British Columbia Dental Hygienists’ Association (BCDHA) applauds the federal government’s recent announcement that pay parity for independent dental hygienists has been approved and will be implemented in the new year. This high priority move marks a significant victory for the profession and recognizes the essential role dental hygienists play in providing preventive care across Canada.
“We are delighted that the federal government has recognized the value of independent dental hygienists and the vital role they play in Canada’s healthcare system,” said BCDHA executive director Cherie Payne. “Achieving fee schedule parity is a huge victory and a key step toward fair compensation.”
Minister Holland acknowledged the important work of dental hygienists, stating that “we need a healthcare system based in prevention, not crisis, and dental hygienists understand that better than anyone.”
The announcement came as more than 500 dental hygienists from across Canada gathered in Niagara Falls for a three-day professional development program hosted by the Canadian Dental Hygienists Association (CDHA). The biennial national conference features internationally recognized speakers, oral health researchers, and subject matter experts from academia and industry exploring topics such as sustainable dentistry, improving outcomes for patients with autism, forensic odontology, and the use of AI in dental hygiene, plus there’s a full scientific program of oral and poster presentations.
“This conference marks 61 years of CDHA and 111 years of the dental hygiene profession in North America,” said CDHA President Alexandra Sheppard. “We are delighted to provide a forum where dental hygienists are able to connect, learn, and contribute to the growing body of knowledge that strengthens our efforts to improve the oral health of all people living in Canada.”
Fee schedule parity is a vital step in ensuring that dental hygienists receive fair compensation for their services and will help strengthen the profession and ensure quality oral healthcare for all Canadians.