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The Human Medicines (Amendments relating to Registered Dental Hygienists, Registered Dental Therapists and Registered Pharmacy Technicians) Regulations 2024
Overview
In 2024, the UK introduced significant changes in the healthcare sector through the Human Medicines (Amendments relating to Registered Dental Hygienists, Registered Dental Therapists, and Registered Pharmacy Technicians) Regulations 2024. This legislative update marks a pivotal development in the scope of practice for these professionals, expanding their roles in medical administration and patient care. This article explores the nuances of these regulations, their requirements, and the implications for healthcare businesses and professionals.
These Regulations amend the Human Medicines Regulations 2012 to expand the roles of registered dental hygienists, dental therapists, and pharmacy technicians. This change is part of a broader initiative to enhance the efficiency of healthcare delivery by optimising the skills of these professionals. The amendments aim to address the growing demand for healthcare services, reduce the burden on doctors and pharmacists, and improve patient access to timely medical care.
The key requirements in relation to extended prescribing rights include:
- Dental Hygienists and Therapists: Can now prescribe certain medications related to dental care without the prior direct supervision of a dentist. This includes local anesthetics and fluoride treatments.
- Pharmacy Technicians: Are authorised to manage and dispense repeat prescriptions under protocols established by a pharmacist, enhancing their role in medication management.
Other requirements are as follows:
- Administration of Medicines: Dental professionals are now permitted to administer sedatives and other controlled medications, which were previously restricted to more senior medical staff. Pharmacy technicians can administer vaccines and other injectable medications under the supervision of a qualified pharmacist.
- Training and Certification Requirements: All affected professionals must complete additional accredited training programs to qualify for these expanded roles. This training ensures they are competent in pharmacology, patient interaction, and ethical considerations.
- Regulatory Oversight: The General Dental Council (GDC) and the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPC) have updated their regulatory frameworks to accommodate these new responsibilities, ensuring ongoing compliance and professional development.
The full list of affected medicines and medications can be viewed using the links provided.
The Human Medicines (Amendments relating to Registered Dental Hygienists, Registered Dental Therapists, and Registered Pharmacy Technicians) Regulations 2024 came into force on the 26th of June 2024 and apply to the United Kingdom.

Do the Human Medicines (Amendments relating to Registered Dental Hygienists, Registered Dental Therapists, and Registered Pharmacy Technicians) Regulations 2024 affect my business?
These Regulations have significant and wide-reaching impacts on healthcare professionals and their employers. These include:
- Healthcare and Dental Practices: Practices will need to adapt to the new regulations by updating protocols and training staff, potentially leading to better patient throughput and efficiency.
- Pharmacies: With pharmacy technicians playing a more crucial role in medication management, pharmacies can enhance service delivery, particularly in community settings.
- Training Institutions: Increased demand for specialised training courses tailored to these new competencies, impacting curriculum development and teaching methodologies.
- Regulatory Bodies: Will need to monitor compliance more stringently and develop new guidelines to support the safe implementation of these changes.
These changes not only promise to improve the efficiency and quality of healthcare delivery but also empower these professionals with greater responsibility and autonomy in their practice. As the implementation unfolds, it will be crucial for all stakeholders, from healthcare providers to regulatory bodies, to navigate these changes thoughtfully to maximise the benefits for patient care while maintaining high standards of safety and efficacy.
Businesses of all sizes must stay informed about these laws to manage their human resources effectively, comply with legal standards, and maintain a productive working environment. By understanding and implementing these legal requirements, businesses can not only avoid legal challenges but also enhance their workforce’s loyalty and productivity.
Do I need the Human Medicines (Amendments relating to Registered Dental Hygienists, Registered Dental Therapists, and Registered Pharmacy Technicians) Regulations 2024 in my ISO Compliance Register?
These Regulations will have impacts on the following sectors:
- Dental Practices: Both private and NHS practices will need to integrate these changes into their service delivery models.
- Community and Hospital Pharmacies: These settings will experience direct changes in operational dynamics due to enhanced roles for pharmacy technicians.
- Educational Institutions: Colleges and universities offering courses in dental hygiene, dental therapy, and pharmacy technology will need to revise their curricula to include the new competencies required.
- Regulatory and Professional Bodies: Entities like the General Dental Council and the General Pharmaceutical Council must update their standards and inspection practices to reflect these new roles.
If your business is categorised above then we strongly recommend including it in your ISO Compliance Register.
Legislation related to the Human Medicines (Amendments relating to Registered Dental Hygienists, Registered Dental Therapists, and Registered Pharmacy Technicians) Regulations 2024
Legislation related to the Human Medicines (Amendments relating to Registered Dental Hygienists, Registered Dental Therapists, and Registered Pharmacy Technicians) Regulations 2024 include:
- The Human Medicines Regulations 2012
- The Medical Devices Regulations 2002
- Medicines and Medical Devices Act 2021
- The Veterinary Medicines Regulations 2013
More information
Visit the Human Medicines (Amendments relating to Registered Dental Hygienists, Registered Dental Therapists, and Registered Pharmacy Technicians) Regulations 2024 article on the legislation.gov.uk website.
Create an account in the ISO Compliance Register App and this article to your Register (this is amended by these Regulations).