Receiving a notification from Ahpra can be a stressful experience. When your professional practice is under scrutiny, approaching the situation with a clear mind and proactive attitude is essential. Understanding the process and knowing your rights can transform this stressful situation into an opportunity for growth and development.
When someone raises a complaint or a concern about a health practitioner with Ahpra, it is called a Notification. Anyone can raise a concern about a health practitioner. These notifications are part of the system for keeping patients and the public safe.
Notifications can occur for various reasons, but may include alleged breaches of professional conduct andconcerns about clinical performance. In some cases, personal health issues affecting your professional practice might be the catalyst. For Australian dental practitioners, facing a notification has several stages with the specific steps and outcomes determined by the risk assessed in each individual case.
Ahpra may receive a notification anyone including for example, a patient, a member of the public, an employer, or another health practitioner. The concern will be assessed to determine if it needs to be considered by the Dental Board. If it does not, the concern may not proceed or be referred to another entity, such as a health complaints entity. If the concern does meet the threshold, it will be progressed by Ahpra.
In most cases, Ahpra will contact you with the details of the notification and the concerns being raised. You may be asked to provide a response and to provide other relevant information (such as clinical records).
This stage may also include speaking to the notifier and obtaining information from your clinic.
In certain circumstances, when the Board considers there is an immediate and serious risk to public safety, the Board may take what is referred to as immediate action. The Board may impose immediate restrictions on your does not occur often and only when the risk to the public is determined to be significant and immediate.
After the assessment, the DBA will decide on an appropriate outcome. The goal is to ensure public safety so the outcome of a notification can vary, depending on the specifics of the case. In some instances, Ahpra may decide no further action is necessary. Alternatively, the Board may propose that restrictions be imposed on your registration. You will have the opportunity to respond to this proposal during a period referred to as “show cause”. Following this period the Board may impose restrictions, change the restrictions to something less than originally proposed or decide to take no further action. If the Board does impose restrictions on your registration you reserve the right to appeal any decision made.
Being aware of all potential outcomes allows you to approach the situation with a clear plan. Possible outcomes can include:
The first thing you should do upon receiving a notification is carefully read the details of the complaint so that you understand the specifics of the concerns being raised. This sets the groundwork for your initial response and helps you determine what information you may need to gather to provide to Ahpra.
Record Keeping and Documentation
Document all relevant details relevant to the matter and the complaint, including patient records and any related correspondence. Organised documentation will help support your case, and also help clarify any potential misunderstandings.
Legal Requirements and Obligations for Dentists
As a dental practitioner, you must comply with all requests for information from Ahpra. You must also adhere to confidentiality requirements throughout the notification process, safeguarding patient privacy and maintaining trust.
Seek Legal Advice
If you have received a notification, you have the right to seek professional legal advice to help you craft a well-informed response that addresses the concerns being raised. Your professional indemnity insurer organisation can put you in contact with a lawyer specialising in health law. It is also helpful to seek support during this time as it is stressful Talking to your family and seeking support from DPS may be helpful for you.
Timeframes and Deadlines
Ahpra will set specific deadlines for responses throughout the process. Always make note of these timeframes as missing deadlines can negatively impact the outcome of your case.
Dealing with an Ahpra notification can initially seem daunting, but it provides a valuable opportunity for professional growth. By understanding the process, knowing your rights, and preparing for potential outcomes, you can navigate the situation with confidence. You can also use our free and confidential national helpline for dental practitioner's in distress by calling 1800 377 700.