Registered Dental Hygienist (Steamboat Springs)
General Statement of Duties:
This position will participate in the implementation of the dental services in the Community Health Center and will also practice dental hygiene clinically and/or with school-based services. This position will integrate oral health care into the comprehensive delivery system of Team Based Care within the CHC and the community.
Supervision Received: Works under the general supervision and direction of the Dental Director.
Supervision Exercised: None.
Essential Functions:
1. Provide direct patient care by providing dental hygiene services: periodontal scaling and root planning, periodontal maintenance procedures, prophylaxis, dental screenings, comprehensive periodontal evaluations, taking radiographs, sealant application, fluoride application, delivery of topical and local anesthetic as necessary, oral cancer screenings, oral hygiene education, and oral evaluation and counseling with primary caregiver of children under three.
a. Assess patient’s medical history and update at each appointment for accuracy.
b. Assess and obtain clinical evidence of patient’s levels of periodontal health and determine the need for appropriate periodontal treatment.
c. Accurately records treatment and maintains clinical notes in electronic health records.
d. Follow proper infection control procedures.
e. Follow patient confidentiality procedures and HIPAA compliance.
f. Participates in team huddles to assess client’s needs
2. Make appropriate referrals to outside dental providers for comprehensive dental care and necessary dental treatment beyond the scope of practice of the Registered Dental Hygienist.
3. Assist with the implementation of performance improvement activities and with the development of policies and procedures.
This description of responsibilities is intended to provide only basic guidelines for meeting each responsibility. Additional responsibilities may be added, as appropriate.
Education:
Graduation from an accredited dental hygiene school required. Bachelor’s degree in Dental Hygiene preferred, not required. Active Colorado Registered Dental Hygienist license required. Active Colorado Local Anesthesia license is preferred.
Experience:
Two years’ experience preferred working in a dental clinic or office. Previous experience with serving ethnically and culturally diverse patient populations across the lifespan preferred, not required. Two years’ experience in a community health center setting preferred. Experience in interprofessional settings, community health services and/or education, and/or care coordination preferred, not required.
Requirements:
1. If car is used, must provide proof of adequate insurance coverage totaling at least
$300,000 and valid Colorado driver’s license.
2. Current BLS for Healthcare Providers certification.
3. Active Colorado Registered Dental Hygienist license.
4. Active Colorado Local Anesthesia license is preferred.
5. Possess professional liability insurance of a minimum of $50,000 per claim and an aggregate liability for all claims during a calendar year of no less than $300,000.
Skills:
1. General office, computer (including entry into the practice management system) and administrative skills.
2. Competent in dealing with ethnically diverse populations.
3. Knowledge of OSHA Blood borne Pathogen Standards and adherence to safety standards.
4. Strong attention to detail and problem solving skills.
5. Ability to work independently and as an interprofessional team member.
6. Ability to educate patients about oral hygiene and risk factors for oral disease.
7. Bilingual in Spanish preferred.
8. Strong written and verbal communication skills.
9. Use of analytical and evaluation skills.
10. Psychomotor skills to perform CPR and administer dental hygiene services.
11. Proficiency in the use of audio and visual equipment.
12. Daily standing, moving, bending, and maneuvering in various settings including clinics, schools, work sites, which are not barrier free.
Knowledge:
1. Knowledge of all phases of dental hygiene procedures.
2. Knowledge of practice of preventative dentistry and ability to instruct patients individually.
3. Must possess knowledge regarding performance improvement, compliance, and applicable regulatory requirements.
4. Knowledge of computer software including Microsoft applications and practice management system.
Abilities:
1. Ability to communicate effectively with patients, community members, medical
Providers, and other health professionals, verbally and in writing in a professional and culturally competent manner.
2. Ability to relate to individuals of varied ethnic, cultural backgrounds, ages and economic circumstances.
3. Ability to work independently and as a team member in a fast paced and interprofessional environment.
4. Ability to establish and maintain an effective working relationship with patients and staff.
5. Ability to work in a flexible environment including flexible hours and locations.
Equipment:
1. Daily use of computer, telephone, copier, and other office equipment.
2. Use of dental equipment.
Working Conditions:
1. Work environment may be variable as services are provided in various environments.
Lighting, acoustics, air quality, temperature, and environmental hazards are not predictable.
2. May work occasional nights and/or weekends.
3. This position has been classified as Patient-Facing, a position in which the incumbent could reasonably be expected to routinely interact with patients and/or patient family members. Employees in Patient-Facing positions are exposed to healthcare conditions that may require additional training, immunizations, and use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
This description is intended to describe the essential job functions and the essential requirements for the performance of this job. It is not an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and requirements of a person so classified. Other functions may be assigned, and management retains the right to add or change the duties at any time.
