Before You Submit a Complaint
The College of Dental Hygienists of Saskatchewan (CDHS) regulates registered dental hygienists in Saskatchewan. The complaints process is one way concerns regarding a dental hygienist’s conduct, competence, or fitness to practise may be reviewed.
Is CDHS the Right Organization?
CDHS can review concerns involving registered dental hygienists in Saskatchewan.
If you are unsure whether the individual is a registered dental hygienist, you can search the CDHS Public Directory or contact us at [email protected] for assistance.
CDHS cannot review concerns involving other health professionals, such as dentists or dental assistants, nor can it investigate concerns related solely to a dental clinic or employer.
If you are unsure whether your concern falls within CDHS’s authority, or if another organization may be better able to assist, please contact us before submitting a complaint.
How Do I Submit a Complaint?
Complaints must be submitted in writing and include:
- Your name and contact information;
- The name of the dental hygienist involved;
- A description of your concerns;
- Relevant dates or details; and
- Any supporting information or documentation you would like considered.
Complaints may be submitted by mail or email to the Registrar.
College of Dental Hygienists of Saskatchewan (CDHS)
Attention: Registrar
Unit 320 – 350 3rd Avenue North
Saskatoon, SK S7K 6G7
Email: [email protected]
What Happens After I Submit a Complaint?
Once a complaint is received, it is reviewed in accordance with The Dental Disciplines Act and CDHS bylaws.
The Professional Conduct Committee is responsible for reviewing and investigating complaints regarding allegations of professional misconduct or professional incompetence. Depending on the circumstances, additional information may be requested from the complainant, the registrant, or other individuals who may have relevant information.
The complainant and registrant will be informed of decisions and outcomes as required by legislation.
What the Complaints Process Can and Cannot Do
The role of CDHS is to protect the public by regulating the practice of dental hygiene. The complaints process is designed to review concerns about a registered dental hygienist and determine whether any regulatory action is appropriate.
The complaints process can:
- Review concerns regarding a registered dental hygienist’s conduct, competence, or fitness to practise.
- Gather and assess information relevant to a complaint.
- Investigate concerns when appropriate.
- Require remedial, educational, or other regulatory action where authorized by legislation.
- Refer matters for a discipline hearing when warranted.
- Take steps to protect the public where required.
The complaints process cannot:
- Investigate individuals who are not registered dental hygienists.
- Investigate concerns related solely to a dental clinic, employer, or business.
- Provide legal advice.
- Act as an advocate for either the complainant or the registrant.
- Guarantee a particular outcome.
- Award financial compensation or damages.
If you have questions about the complaints process or are unsure whether CDHS is the right organization to address your concern, please contact us before submitting a complaint. We would be happy to assist.
