Suicide Prevention Continuing Education

Did you know that most people who attempt and die by suicide have a mental health condition, although it's often undiagnosed? Almost all of the people who consider and attempt suicide see a healthcare professional within one year of their attempt. However, many of them have never seen a behavioral health specialist.

Suicide is a preventable public health issue. Healthcare professionals are in a unique position to notice their patients’ depression and suicide warning signs and can intervene early. Understanding the suicide warning signs and taking action to connect people to the appropriate help can save lives.

As of August 1, 2020, dentists are required to have a one-time, three-hour training on suicide screening and referral, and assessment of issues related to imminent harm via lethal means. Education must be obtained from an approved organization listed on the Department of Health Model List webpage. The hours spent completing this training count toward meeting applicable continuing education requirements for dentist license renewal.

If you have completed suicide assessment, treatment, and management curriculum through the school of dentistry at the University of Washington before licensure, you do not need to complete this training.