GDC Releases Findings on Overseas Registration Examination Review

UK: The General Dental Council (GDC) has published the results of its recent call for evidence regarding the Overseas Registration Examination (ORE). While the review did not indicate a pressing need for structural changes to the examination, it highlighted a significant desire for enhanced accessibility to the ORE.

Stefan Czerniawski, Executive Director of Strategy at the GDC, emphasized the importance of this feedback, stating: “With public protection as our overriding priority, hearing about and learning from the experiences of ORE candidates and those who want to register in the UK is incredibly important to us.”

Maintaining Standards While Improving Process

The GDC has made it clear that while they are committed to improving the registration process for internationally qualified dental professionals, they will not compromise on the standards required for entry to the UK register. Czerniawski affirmed this stance, saying:

“We will not compromise on the standards for entry to the UK register, but the application process should be no more burdensome than is necessary to achieve that.”

Recent Legislative Changes and Capacity Increase

In response to the feedback, the GDC has already taken steps to increase the ORE capacity. This move follows legislative changes introduced in 2023, which allowed for new rules regarding the registration of overseas-qualified dentists and dental care professionals. The council has also put more flexible contracts in place for the delivery of the ORE in 2025, as part of its efforts to modernize the international registration process.

Future Considerations and Provisional Registration

The GDC is exploring ways to make the ORE rules more flexible for candidates, particularly concerning the number of attempts allowed and the process for reapplying after reaching time limits or exhausting all attempts. However, the council stresses that any changes must maintain high standards to ensure patient protection.

Additionally, the GDC is seeking clarity from the UK Government regarding plans for provisional registration for overseas-qualified dentists. Czerniawski commented on this, saying:

“The proposals for provisional registration would provide an additional and alternate route to registration for dentists who want to work in the UK, but it is a complex solution that will take time to deliver and will only work effectively if delivered in collaboration with the sector.”

Dental Hygienists and Therapists

While the review focused primarily on dentists, the GDC also addressed the situation for internationally qualified dental hygienists and therapists. The regulator stated that there are no immediate plans to introduce a practical test for these professionals. However, this option will remain under consideration as part of the ongoing work on international registration processes.

The findings from this review will play a crucial role in shaping the GDC’s future approach to registration for internationally qualified dental professionals, as they strive to create a more accessible yet rigorous system for those seeking to practice in the UK.