You're probably aware of new General Dental Council guidelines for websites that come into effect on 1st March 2012. These guidelines are aimed at ensuring that advertising by dental professionals is clear and never misleads the public. In line with European guidance, a practice's website must contain some specific information.
Although many of you won't agree with the stipulations being put in place, needless-to-say these elements have to be included. We've contacted all our clients to advise them of those elements that need altering on their websites, but thought it was worth publishing a blog about these so other dental practices are aware of the new regulations.
From 1st March 2012, all dental websites need to include:
- Details of individual's professional qualifications and the country from which that qualification is derived
- Individual's GDC registration numbers
- A link to the GDC website
- Details of the practice’s complaints procedure and information of who patients may contact if they are not satisfied with the response (namely the relevant NHS body for NHS treatment and the Dental Complaints Service for private treatment)
- The date the website was last updated
Should any practice require help in making their website GDC compliant then don't hesitate to contact me on 01242 236600 or by emailing marcus@bluehorizonsmarketing.co.uk
Full guidelines can be read on the GDC website.
