Update on Interim Stabilization Therapy (IST)

The College Board has recently reviewed and updated the Position Statement on Interim Stabilization Therapy (IST). The Board used the opportunity to provide further clarification on the informed consent and referral processes that must be followed before 365 Day Exempt Registrants can provide IST. As part of the consent process, prior to performing IST, the College has determined that registrants must ensure their client (or the client’s representative):

a) understands the temporary nature of this intervention and the need to follow up imminently with a dentist; and

b) agrees to have a written referral made directly to a dentist for follow-up care, OR agrees to receive a written referral, which includes a list of dental contacts, and understands that it is their (the client’s) responsibility to follow up on the referral.

In the absence of either of these components, IST must be postponed until such time that these criteria can be met. The provisions for informed consent for IST and the written referral provided must be clearly documented in the client’s chart.

To perform IST, dental hygienists must been registered in the 365-exempt category, have completed appropriate IST-specific education and comply with all CDHBC Regulations, Practice Standards and Code of Ethics.

Please read the updated Interim Stabilization Therapy (IST) CDHBC Position Statement here.

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