Hong Kong — The Hong Kong government is ramping up efforts to bolster its healthcare workforce by hiring both local and nonlocally trained dentists, with salaries ranging from HK$71,010 to HK$93,255 per month. Applications are open now until September 23.
This initiative follows the recent passage of the Dentists Registration (Amendment) Bill 2024 by the Legislative Council earlier this month. The law marks a significant shift, allowing nonlocally trained dentists to practice legally in Hong Kong for the first time while establishing new requirements for local graduates.
Starting from 2025, local graduates will be required to complete a one-year mandatory internship before obtaining full registration to practice. This internship will provide hands-on experience across various dental services, including general dentistry and specialized community care, under the mentorship of established professionals.
The Department of Health announced plans to enhance recruitment efforts, collaborating with international offices to raise awareness about the opportunities available. A department spokesperson stated, “We will work closely with the Dental Council of Hong Kong, aiming to admit the first cohort of nonlocally trained dentists by early 2025 to serve our community.”
The urgency of this recruitment drive is underscored by the current ratio of dentists in Hong Kong, standing at just 0.37 per 1,000 residents, highlighting a pressing need for dental professionals in the region.
To qualify, applicants must be registered dentists in their home country, possess at least one year of post-qualification clinical experience, and demonstrate proficiency in English and Chinese. They will need to secure either limited or special registration from the Dental Council of Hong Kong after being offered full-time positions at designated institutions, including the Department of Health and the University of Hong Kong.
Successful candidates will be employed on non-civil service terms for an initial 12-month period, with potential for contract renewal based on performance and departmental needs. Nonlocal dentists must commit to a minimum five-year tenure at their assigned institution and pass a licensing examination to obtain full registration. However, those who exhibit satisfactory performance may be exempted from the exam.
The urgency of this recruitment drive is underscored by the current ratio of dentists in Hong Kong, standing at just 0.37 per 1,000 residents, highlighting a pressing need for dental professionals in the region.
