What does the National Network of Healthcare Hygienists offer?

The National Network of Healthcare Hygienists (NNHH) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to integrating Registered Dental Hygienists (RDHs) into collaborative healthcare settings. Founded in 2018, NNHH aims to bridge the gap between oral health and systemic wellness by providing advanced education, certification, and professional support to RDHs seeking to expand their roles beyond traditional dental practice.

Mission and Vision

NNHH's mission is to empower RDHs to become integral members of multidisciplinary healthcare teams, emphasizing the critical connection between oral health and overall systemic health. By offering specialized training and resources, NNHH strives to enhance patient-centered care and promote health equity through the inclusion of oral health professionals in broader medical contexts.

Core Offerings

1. Oral Systemic Educator Certificate Program™

   • A self-paced, online course providing 34.5 AGD PACE credit hours.

   • Accredited by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB), marking it as the first dental certificate program globally to achieve this distinction.

   • Equips RDHs with the knowledge to educate patients and collaborate with healthcare teams on the oral-systemic health connection.

2. Oncology Certificate Program™

   • Offers 18 AGD PACE credit hours focused on the oral implications of cancer treatments.

   • Prepares RDHs to serve as oral health advocates within oncology care teams, addressing both adult and pediatric patient needs.

3. Leadership Certificate Program™

   • A seven-unit course designed to develop leadership skills and explore career pathways beyond clinical practice.

   • Features recorded lectures and a capstone project to foster professional growth.

4. The Cotten Method™ Certificate Program

   • A mini-program providing 3.5 AGD PACE credit hours.

   • Focuses on comprehensive head and neck evaluations to enhance early detection of oral and oropharyngeal cancers.

5. Professional Membership 

   • Access to a supportive community of like-minded professionals.

   • Discounts on certificate programs.

   • Mentorship program.

Impact and Recognition

NNHH's programs have been instrumental in advancing the role of RDHs within healthcare systems. For instance, graduates like Brianne Carter and Jamie Carder have successfully implemented integrative oral health programs in interprofessional settings, leading to improved patient outcomes and expanded professional opportunities. NNHH's commitment to excellence is further demonstrated by its ANSI accreditation, setting a global standard for oral health education.

Conclusion

The National Network of Healthcare Hygienists is at the forefront of redefining the dental hygiene profession by fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and emphasizing the importance of oral health in systemic wellness. Through its accredited programs and supportive community, NNHH empowers RDHs to take on expanded roles in healthcare, ultimately contributing to more comprehensive and equitable patient care.

For more information and enrollment details, visit healthcarehygienists.org.