Is RDHAP for me?

One hygienist’s account of pursuing alternative practice. by Thais Carter

Originally a biology major, Susan McLearan had dreams of becoming a pathologist. When she began to have doubts about pursuing that career, a sorority sister introduced her to dental hygiene. “Her selling point was that dental hygiene patients are, by and large, not sick or dying, and I would have great pleasure communicating preventive health concepts under those more favorable circumstances,” remembers Ms. McLearan.

Since she began clinical practice in 1969, Ms. McLearan has taken several detours—raising kids, helping run a dental office, working as a health educator for family planning, and more—she found her way back to the profession in 1994, and has been taking on new challenges ever since.

MH: How did you decide the RDHAP license was right for you?

SML: I saw, clearly, that my opportunities for growth as a healthcare provider were limited.  Yes, I might find a progressive employer who would allow me to work through the full scope of practice, but I knew that would be hard because all those good jobs are taken. Also, I felt that even if a job became available, being in my 50s shouldn’t, but probably would, be a barrier to long-term employment.

MH: Were there any major challenges?

SML: Getting aligned with a facility was the most difficult. I had to do a lot of research, and found many dead ends before securing the two facilities I currently serve.

MH: How do you utilize your RDHAP status?

SML: Currently, I serve two facilities—a sub-acute facility of our local hospital in Visalia, and a nursing home in Tulare.  I screen the patients for need and then set up a schedule. The number of hours I work depends greatly on patient  availability and my availability at particular sites. I find, however, that I can see a maximum of five patients, which takes me about six hours, based on the fact that most are partially edentulous.

I provide prophylaxis, scaling and root planing, fluoride varnish, oral cancer screening,  and referral for suspicious lesions, as well as oral healthcare plan development. I will soon provide in-service training for both facilities.

MH: Any advice for future RDHAPs?

SML: To be my colleague in RDHAP, high ethical standards and a great love for people and the profession are a must. I also would suggest additional research into the populations in need, such as gerontology, pediatrics, etc. It does not need to be formal work, but one should avail themselves of additional insights, potential challenges and opportunities. Beyond that, one will need the conviction and courage to literally go where few others have gone before. If you like a good challenge, and don’t mind the extra work that comes with being your own boss, then I say, “Go for it!”