Your name and your practice permit
What the Health Professions Act requires
We’ve heard that some dental assistants are not providing their last name when a patient asks, sometimes because they believe “privacy laws” don’t allow it. This isn’t correct. Not sharing your name can make it hard for patients to understand who was involved in their care or to raise a concern.
Below is a summary of what the Health Professions Act (HPA) requires.
You must be identifiable to patients
Under the HPA, your practice permit is issued in your full name. The HPA also says:
- The College must record each regulated member’s full name in the public register.
- A practice permit must show the regulated member’s name.
- You must display your practice permit where you provide services or, if asked, make it available for inspection.
This supports a patient’s ability to know who is providing their care. If a patient, or a parent/guardian, asks for your last name (or the name on your practice permit), you must provide it.
Public identification of dental assistants supports accountability and transparency under the HPA.
Why sharing your name matters
When patients can’t identify who provided their care, it can create uncertainty and impact their confidence in the care they received.
Sharing your name shows professionalism and helps build public trust. We encourage you to display your practice permit and be ready to provide your full name when asked.
Questions about your responsibilities under the HPA? Contact the College.
