How does Direct Access Supervision empower dental hygienists?

Direct Access Supervision empowers dental hygienists by allowing them to provide care without always needing prior approval from a dentist. This model enhances the autonomy of dental hygienists as they can assess patients' needs and deliver certain treatments directly, streamlining the care process. It promotes efficiency and enables hygienists to respond more quickly to patient needs, contributing to better patient outcomes and increased access to care.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the essence of Direct Access Supervision. For instance, working with multiple dentists simultaneously is not a feature of this supervision type; rather, it focuses on the hygienist's independence in patient care. Similarly, while there may be guidelines on the range of procedures hygienists can perform, the essence of Direct Access is not restrictive; it emphasizes their ability to initiate care independently. Lastly, communication with patients before treatment is an essential practice in any healthcare setting but is not a specific mandate of Direct Access Supervision.