The General Dental Council (GDC) has published the outcome report following its consultation on proposed amendments to the Specialist List Assessed Applications (SLAA) routes.

The consultation, which ran from July 4 to September 12, 2024, sought feedback on improving pathways for dentists to join its specialist lists.

The report has highlighted strong support for the proposed changes, which aim to enhance clarity and consistency in application routes while maintaining rigorous standards.

The consultation included feedback from over 340 respondents, including dental professionals, representative bodies, and education providers. Key themes from the responses included fairness, transparency, and the importance of robust assessment processes.

The new regulations, which were decided by the regulator’s council at its October 2024 meeting, will take effect from January 1, 2025. The changes aim to ensure that applicants applying through the assessed routes demonstrate knowledge, skills, and experience equivalent to those completing a certificate of completion of specialist training (CCST) and will align with evolving international trade agreements.

In addition to the outcome report, revised SLAA guidance for assessors and updated application forms have also been published and are available.

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