Dentists on lengal proceedings

Agreed Statement by the New Zealand Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons Inc and the Dental Council of New Zealand

NZAOMS has issued judicial review proceedings against the Dental Council of New Zealand in respect of decisions concerning the scope of practice for oral surgery.

The parties have now agreed to settle those proceedings.

The Dental Council acknowledges that NZAOMS has concerns about the Council’s previous processes regarding the oral surgery specialist scope of practice, including the management of conflicts of interest. The Council has implemented measures which have addressed these concerns. The Council will establish a new working group of key stakeholders (including, but not limited to, NZAOMS) to consider the future of the oral surgery specialist scope of practice, and for a committee of Council to consider the report of the working group before the full Council makes any further decision on the future of the oral surgery specialist scope of practice. All members of the working group will be provided with sufficient information to enable the members to participate effectively. NZAOMS acknowledges that the decision on the oral surgery specialist scope of practice is for the Council.

NZAOMS acknowledges that the litigation has been distressing for the Dental Council, and in particular its Chair, Professor Robert Love. NZAOMS regrets any harm and distress suffered by Professor Love as a consequence of the litigation. NZAOMS has assured Professor Love that no personal attack or slight was or is intended by the legal proceedings.

Both parties are pleased that the dispute between them has been resolved, and look forward to working together constructively in the future.

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