The Risks of Not Reporting Retirement or Resignation

When denturists close, relocate, or leave a practice, including resigning or retiring, there is a requirement under the Standards of Practice to provide the College of Alberta Denturists (College) at least 90 days’ written notice. This advance notice ensures patient care transitions are handled appropriately, patient records are managed securely, and regulatory standards are upheld.

Failing to properly notify the College can have serious consequences for both the denturist and their patients/clients.

What Happens if you Don’t Notify the College?

Failing to notify the College when resigning, retiring, or otherwise leaving practice can result in:

• A breach of the Standards of Practice, including those relating to patient record management, communication, and termination of the denturist-patient relationship.
• Unprofessional conduct investigations for abandoning patients without appropriate transfer or referral plans.
• Public protection concerns, if patients are left without notice, causing interruption in care or inability to access their health records.
• Potential legal action or complaints under privacy legislation (e.g., mishandling patient information).
• Fines, sanctions, or disciplinary action by the College for non-compliance with regulatory obligations.

Even after leaving active practice, denturists are still responsible for ensuring patients are informed and that their health information is securely stored, transferred, or destroyed according to the law.

Key Takeaways

• Always plan your transition in advance.
• Notify the College, your patients, and your insurer with enough time for smooth handover of care.
• Maintain clear documentation of your actions.
• Follow all requirements regarding record keeping and communication.

Proper notice protects patients, supports professional colleagues, and ensures denturists meet their ethical and legal responsibilities. Failing to do so puts the public’s trust and your professional reputation at risk.

If you are considering retiring, resigning, relocating, or reducing your practice, contact the College early for guidance to ensure you remain in compliance. The required form is available on the website here.