Policy Statement – The Fiji Dental Codes and Terms

The Fiji Dental Codes and Terms serve as the authoritative coding system for dental treatments and services in Fiji, overseen by the Fijian Dental Association (FDA). This system is essential for standardizing dental practices across the country and ensuring consistency in dental care. The Codes & Terms are periodically updated to reflect current practices and are protected by FDA-held copyright.

Background:

  • The Codes & Terms are published by the FDA and recognized as the definitive system for coding dental services in Fiji.
  • They inform the practices of the Fiji Dental Medical Council and involve collaboration with various stakeholders to ensure comprehensive coverage.
  • The system uses three-digit item numbers to categorize dental services.

Definitions:

  • Item Numbers: A coding system to describe dental services.
  • Dentist: A qualified practitioner registered to practice all areas of dentistry.
  • Dental Practitioner: A registered provider of dental care.

Position:

  • The Codes & Terms must be maintained as the primary coding system for dental treatments in Fiji.
  • Dental practitioners must be familiar with the Codes & Terms and train others in its use.
  • Item Numbers should describe treatment outcomes without specifying fees and accommodate minor clinical variations.
  • All services, including those not described elsewhere, should have allocated Item Numbers, which are not reserved solely for specialists.
  • The Codes & Terms apply equally to primary and secondary teeth.

Publication:

  • The Codes & Terms should be regularly revised and published by the FDA to reflect current practices.
  • The latest edition is accessible on the FDA website.

Clarification:

  • For clarification or disputes regarding the Codes & Terms, stakeholders should contact the FDA. Disputes are referred to the FDA Executive Council for resolution, maintaining confidentiality throughout the process.

Submissions and Consultation:

  • The FDA invites feedback and suggestions for new or amended item numbers from relevant stakeholders.
  • Organizations should consult equivalent bodies to achieve consensus before submitting suggestions.
  • All correspondence regarding the Codes & Terms should be directed to the President of the FDA.
  • The Fiji Dental Medical Council reviews and comments on draft changes before approval.
  • The FDA Executive Council is authorized to approve amendments and new editions of the Codes & Terms.

This comprehensive system ensures that dental treatments and services in Fiji are consistently and accurately coded, facilitating high standards of dental care nationwide.