Peer Contact Requirements

Peer contact means interactive contact with peers with the specific objective of professional development. A peer is someone who is registered as an oral health practitioner. Peer groups should consist of those in the same scope of practice but may include those from different scopes. Peer groups may therefore include other registered oral health practitioners such as dental technicians, clinical dental technicians, dental therapists, dental hygienists, dentists and others affiliated to dentistry such as practice managers and dental assistants.

Guidelines for meetings

  • Peer groups should comprise approximately 6-10 members (minimum 4 and maximum 12).
  • The timeframe and time limits should be decided by the group and adhered to. The group should decide the frequency of meetings, but a minimum of four meetings per year is recommended
  • Move the venue around amongst the group
  • The host is normally has the responsibility for facilitating the meeting
  • Set and keep to a strict time limited
  • Keep meetings constructive and educational, these need to be stated when applying for verification
  • Establish the principle of no direct criticism of a colleague
  • Never mention patients’ names
  • Agree to encourage all participants to contribute at each meeting
  • At first peer groups can be intimidating. However, experience shows that once initial inhibitions are overcome, peer groups can produce frank and constructive discussion that supports continuing professional development. It will take time for trust to develop within a group and good facilitation is required to ensure initial and ongoing participation. No individual should be allowed to dominate the group. Group members are equal, but not the same
  • Try to end each meeting with a brief feedback session
  • Peer groups can also provide social support, growth in the professional role and protection against burnout. It can be an opportunity to socialise with colleagues, and discuss ideas that may be difficult to express to laypersons. It is important, however, to ensure that the group does not allow these needs to dominate the whole group’s educational structure