The new suite of Continuing Competence Program (CCP) policies clarifies the purpose, structure, and expectations of the CCP to support ongoing competence after registration.
We have separated policy from procedure with the policies providing the higher-level framework that explains what we require and why those requirements exist. They provide a clearer, more defensible framework for how we:
- establish continuing competence expectations
- support dental assistants’ participation in the CCP
- audit compliance
- determine outcomes
- respond to identified gaps
Procedures and templates will supplement the policies and provide the how – how our staff administer the program consistently, how dental assistants complete the CCP, and how we support and evaluate participation.
What’s changed?
The policies do not make significant changes to the annual Continuing Competence Program requirements. Most of the changes dental assistants will see—such as the updated CCP area in the portal, mandatory self-assessment, clearer wording, and the updated steps for creating, completing, and reflecting on learning goals—are to provide them with more support and guidance. The changes are to how dental assistants complete their requirements, not the requirements themselves.
To support dental assistants through these changes, we will provide information and guidance through CCP videos, website updates, and instructions within the portal and CCP forms.
CCP policy overview
There are four parts to the new CCP policies.
CCP-POL-001 Continuing Competence Program Framework
Establishes the overall framework for the Continuing Competence Program and confirms the purpose, structure, and governance expectations of the program
CCP-POL-002 Continuing Competence Requirements
Establishes regulated member participation requirements and includes a new section on specified education or training and exemptions.
CCP-POL-003 Continuing Competence Audit
Establishes the audit framework, including why audit occurs, who may be selected, how review is conducted, how results are communicated, and how follow-up may occur.
CCP-POL-004 Continuing Competence Outcomes and Actions
Establishes how CCP outcomes are determined and how the College responds when gaps in participation, documentation, reflection, application to practice, or follow-up are identified.
Policy review
In addition to the CCP policy suite, we are reviewing and applying the new framework to all of our policies to enhance public transparency, accountability, and audit readiness. Through the review, we will strengthen our policy alignment with the acts, regulations, bylaws and standards that govern our College and profession. We will also strengthen the connection between Council’s governance role and the Registrar & CEO’s operational responsibilities.
This work supports Goal 3: Strengthen Stakeholder Trust and Engagement of our 2025-30 Strategic Plan by enhancing transparency and processes.
