To deliver high-quality oral health services, SBHCs must have a competent staff working at the top of their professions. In SBHCs where skills and knowledge are maximized, no single individual possesses the skills and knowledge needed to provide all care. Rather, staff members work together to provide the best possible care for all students.
In SBHCs that operate effectively, all staff are considered equally important. Professional autonomy is maintained, and incentives are provided to meet performance and efficiency standards. Staff roles and responsibilities are clearly identified to ensure that students are transitioned smoothly from one type of care to another. Shared protocols based on evidence, such as best-practice guidelines, clinical care pathways, and decision-making tools, are essential to help standardize care across services.