GDC receives power to check English language skills of dentists

The General Dental Council (GDC) has been given new powers to assess the English language competence of dentists or dental care professionals before they can practise.

A change in EU law came into effect on April 1st meaning that in future, all dental professionals will need to supply evidence of their ability to communicate effectively in spoken and written English before being allowed on the register.

Previously, candidates from within the European Economic Area were exempt from language testing. Staff qualifying in a country where English is the first and native language will not routinely need to provide additional evidence of their aptitude.

Additionally, a change is being made to the levels of English required by overseas qualified dental nurses and dental technicians, with the pass level in the International English Language Testing exam rising from Level 6 to Level 7.

Ian Brack, interim chief executive of the GDC, said: "This change will help to assure the public the treatment they receive is provided by a qualified and trained dental professional who has sufficient knowledge of the English language to practise in the UK."

English language testing plans are also in the works for several other healthcare professions including nursing, midwifery and pharmacy.