Petition to allow Dental professionals to register

To: The Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA)

Cc: The Minister of Health, South Africa

From: Concerned Dental Professionals of South Africa

Date: 26 March 2025

SUBJECT: Petition for the Recognition and Registration of Dental Professionals

KEY ISSUES

1. South Africa has a shortage of registered dental professionals, yet many trained individuals remain unemployed.

2. The high annual registration fees are unrealistic, considering many dental jobs pay low salaries.

3. The registration process is unclear and difficult, preventing qualified professionals from contributing to healthcare.

4. Lack of fair recognition for skilled dental professionals leaves many unable to work legally.

5. Rural and disadvantaged areas suffer the most, as fewer professionals can afford registration and employment remains low.

OUR REQUEST

We urge the HPCSA to:

✓Reduce the high registration fees.

✓Simplify the registration process for qualified professionals.

✓Implement fair policies that allow more dental professionals to work legally.

✓Ensure equal opportunities for all dental professionals, regardless of background.

✓Addressing these concerns will improve healthcare, employment, and accessibility.

Dental assistant Association    Contact the author of the petition