What must a supervising licensee do with the certificates of training received by dental hygienists and assistants?

The correct answer indicates that supervising licensees are required to maintain on-file records of the certificates of training received by dental hygienists and assistants in the dental office. This practice is essential for several reasons. First, it ensures compliance with regulatory requirements set forth by the Florida Dental Practice Act and the Board of Dentistry, which stipulate that providers must keep accurate documentation related to training and certifications. Keeping these certificates on file allows for easy reference in case of inspections, audits, or other evaluations by regulatory authorities, thereby demonstrating adherence to continuing education and training standards.

Additionally, having these certificates available in the office helps to establish a culture of accountability and professionalism within the practice. It ensures that all staff members are qualified and have received the necessary training to perform their duties effectively, which ultimately contributes to the safety and quality of care provided to patients.

While options such as displaying certificates on a website or only showing them upon patient request may seem beneficial for transparency, they do not fulfill the legal obligations required by the state to keep proper records. Furthermore, providing copies to the state board is not a mandated practice unless asked or during specific reporting periods, reaffirming that the primary responsibility lies with the supervising licensee to maintain these records internally.