Community Oral Health Officer (COHO), Hospital

Job Role

• To provide high-quality preventive and curative oral healthcare services while promoting oral health awareness within the community. The Community Oral Health Officer (COHO) is responsible for delivering professional dental procedures, supporting patient education initiatives, ensuring compliance with healthcare standards, and contributing to excellent patient experience and operational efficiency within the dental facility.

Key Responsibilities

Clinical Dental Services

• Perform dental procedures such as extractions, scaling, polishing, fillings, and other basic restorative treatments.
• Conduct oral examinations and identify dental conditions requiring treatment or referral.
• Assist in diagnosis and treatment planning under established clinical guidelines.
• Administer appropriate infection prevention and control measures during procedures.

Preventive & Community Oral Health

• Provide preventive, curative, and promotive oral healthcare services.
• Educate patients and communities on oral hygiene, nutrition, and preventive dental care.
• Participate in community outreach programs, school dental awareness campaigns, and oral health education initiatives.
• Promote early detection and prevention of oral diseases.

Patient Care & Experience

• Ensure professional and compassionate handling of patients.
• Maintain accurate patient records and treatment documentation.
• Follow up on patient progress and provide post-treatment guidance.
• Address patient concerns and maintain confidentiality at all times.

Clinical Operations Support

• Ensure dental equipment and instruments are properly sterilized and maintained.
• Monitor stock levels of dental supplies and report replenishment needs.
• Support smooth day-to-day clinic operations and appointment coordination.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of treatment areas.

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with Ministry of Health regulations and dental practice standards.
• Adhere to infection prevention protocols and occupational safety guidelines.
• Maintain valid professional licenses and certifications.
• Report clinical incidents and support implementation of corrective actions.

Reporting & Documentation

• Prepare treatment reports and patient records accurately.
• Submit periodic operational and clinical updates to management.
• Maintain proper documentation for compliance and audit purposes.

Qualifications

• Diploma in Community Oral Health or equivalent qualification from a recognized institution.
• Registration and valid practicing license from the relevant professional council.
• Minimum 2 years’ experience in a dental clinic or healthcare environment is an added advantage.
• Knowledge of dental procedures, sterilization standards, and patient care practices.
• Proficiency in dental record management and basic computer applications.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong clinical and dental procedural skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Patient care and customer service orientation.
• Attention to detail and high hygiene standards.
• Teamwork and collaboration skills.
• Problem-solving and decision-making ability.
• Time management and organizational skills.
• Professional ethics and confidentiality.