Speakers: Erin Haley-Hitz, RDH, BSDH, MS, FADHA, MAADH, Lancette VanGuilder, BS, RDH, PHEDH, CEAS, FADHA, Jessica August, MSDH, CDA, RDH, FADHA

Program Track: Professional Development

Course Description: This course is designed to empower dental hygienists with essential tools, knowledge, and strategies needed to understand and achieve professional autonomy. Participants will explore the dynamic field of dental hygiene, focusing on how to expand their roles, advance and broaden their scope of practice, and strengthen their independence in clinical decision-making. Special emphasis will be placed on key areas such as policy reform, advocacy, and actionable steps toward achieving full professional autonomy in education, practice, licensure, discipline, and regulatory processes. By the end of this course, participants will be well-prepared to elevate patient care, pursue leadership opportunities, and enhance their professional fulfillment through autonomy.

Learning Objectives:

• Describe the legal and regulatory frameworks that support or limit dental hygienists' autonomy.
• Recognize the impact of autonomous care on patient outcomes and overall health.
• Identify effective models for interdisciplinary collaboration, focusing on building partnerships with other healthcare providers to create a holistic approach to patient care.
• Explore the role of advanced education in developing the knowledge, skills, and competencies essential for achieving professional autonomy.

CE Credit Hours: 1.0

Original Date of Session: January 15, 2025

The American Dental Hygienists' Association is designated as an approved provider by the American Academy of Dental Hygiene, Inc. #AADHADH (Jan. 1, 2025–Dec. 31, 2025). Approval does not imply acceptance by a state or provincial Board of Dentistry. Licensee should maintain this document in the event of an audit.

The American Dental Hygienists’ Association is an approved provider of dental continuing education as recognized by the Dental Board of California, Provider #5238.