Certificate in Dental Practice Management

Course Structure

Course Summary

•   Format: online, self-paced
•   Average completion time: 1 month
•   Number of Learning Units: 9
•   CPD Hours: 9 hours
•   Guided Learning Hours: Average of 18 hours (depending on the learner’s speed)

Course Assessments

•   Unit Quiz: One multiple choice quiz per unit
•   Final Assessment: No final assessment

Support 

•   Optional drop-in support session classes available.
•   One-to-one tutor support is easily accessible by email, telephone, or Zoom.

Modules/Units

The Role of a Manager 

GDC Development Outcomes: B

• Explore what it means to be a Practice Manager and why it is an executive role
• Look at changes in CQC inspections and the GDC’s Standards for the Dental Team that influence the management of a dental practice
• Discover the essential functions of a Practice Manager
• Understand the importance of developing a strategy in practice

Compliance

GDC Development Outcomes: B, D

• Explain the role of the CQC in dental industry regulation and the consequences of non-compliance.
• Demonstrate how to evidence and maintain compliance with CQC regulations.
• Create a compliance schedule and understand the use of AI in policy and procedure support.
• Understand the responsibilities and accountability in health and safety, GDC standards, GDPR and infection control.
• Recognise the importance of audits for quality improvement and how to conduct them effectively.

Leadership and Management

GDC Development Outcomes: B

• Explore the difference between leadership and management
• Look at how to learn and develop as a leader and manager
• Explore conditions for good leadership and management
• Discuss how to manage relations with staff, patients and other stakeholders

Effective Communication

GDC Development Outcomes: A

• Understand what effective communication entails
• Explore why effective communication is important in your practice
• Look at different types of communication
• Learn how to improve your communication skills

Resource Management

GDC Development Outcomes: B

• Understand what resources are required in a dental practice
• Understand the importance of managing resources effectively
• Explore the efficient and safe use of resources
• Discuss the importance of security of the resources in your practice

Staff Development

GDC Development Outcomes: C

• Look at the importance of staff training
• Explore the importance of strategic business planning
• Discuss essential elements of appraisals, Skills Gap Analyses and Personal Training Plans
• Explore how to assess the effectiveness of training and Return On Investment (ROI)

Finance

GDC Development Outcomes: B

• Understand the purpose of the main financial documents in a dental practice
• Identify the practice’s sources of finance and funding
• Understand the importance of cash flow management and cash flow forecasting
• Explore the role of Key Performance Indicators in monitoring the achievement of practice objectives
• Understand the processes of setting, monitoring and controlling a budget in practice

Human Resources

GDC Development Outcomes: B

• Learn how to master the recruiting, interviewing and employment of a new team member
• Understand the importance of appraisal systems and how to monitor, appraise and direct staff performance
• Explore methods of managing poor staff performance and grievances
• Discuss legal compliance and relevant policies and procedures
• Explore employee benefit design and rewards

Marketing

GDC Development Outcomes: B

• To understand marketing and the principles behind it.
• To learn how to analyse your patient base and create a bespoke marketing mix
• To explore the psychology of buying to maximise sales in your practice
• To discuss why building a strong brand allows for growth through your services and patient relationships
• To look at promoting campaigns and maximising publicity
• To cover ethical marketing and GDC guidelines