First cohort of dental graduates begins mandatory year-long internship with Department of Health

The first batch of 75 local dental graduates has joined the Department of Health to commence a 12-month internship, marking the launch of a new initiative aimed at enhancing clinical training and patient care.

The internship structure begins with a comprehensive two-week orientation designed to familiarise the new graduates with the scope of public dental services in Hong Kong.

This initial training will equip them with essential service requirements and clinical techniques to help them adapt promptly to the working environment.

Following the orientation, the interns will be assigned to rotate across various service units, including the Department of Health, the Hospital Authority, and Prince Philip Dental Hospital. 

They will work under the supervision of experienced dentists in several key areas, including general dental services, emergency dental care, hospital-based dental service such as oral maxillofacial surgery, the School Dental Care Service, and community dental services designated for underprivileged groups.

"Clinical internship is not only a vital process of acquiring techniques and knowledge, but also a crucial stage for developing your problem-solving abilities and enhancing your communication skills with patients," said Director of Health Ronald Lam Man-kin in the launch ceremony on Monday. "Through mutual support and knowledge sharing, you will be equipped to more effectively address complex cases and elevate the overall standard of healthcare."

The new internship requirement is a result of amendments to the Dentists Registration Ordinance (Chapter 156). The provisions related to temporary registration, internship, and assessment came into effect on April 1 this year.

Upon successful completion of the internship, the graduates will be awarded a certificate of experience, which is a mandatory requirement for full registration as a dentist in Hong Kong.