New law provides convenience for Hoosiers at the dentist
STATEHOUSE – House Enrolled Act (HEA) 1061, authored by State Representative Dave Frizzell (R-Indianapolis), was signed into law by Governor Pence. This law, in certain circumstances, gives dentists increased flexibility in their practices while allowing dental hygienists to treat more patients in a wider range of settings, which includes health facilities or nursing homes.
“Under current law, prescriptive supervision allows dental hygienists to perform their duties without a licensed dentist physically present in certain situations, which means dentists can spend more time with patients,” said Rep. Frizzell. “I was proud to champion this legislation which expands the locations a dental hygienist can provide treatment, under prescriptive supervision, so that more Hoosiers can have access to oral care and dentists can spend additional time with their patients.”
Changes to prescriptive supervision under HEA 1061 will allow dental hygienists to practice with a patient when a dentist is not present in a dental office, clinical setting or health facility. However, the hygienist must have completed two years of active practice, a licensed dentist has to have provided the patient an oral exam within the past seven months and the patient has to have a current medical history available. Dental hygienists will not be able to use a laser to provide treatment to patients.
“This legislation serves to give dentists flexibility within their own practice while trusting the experience that dental hygienists have received through their work,” said Rep. Frizzell.
HEA 1061 will go into effect on July 1 of this year.
-30-
State Rep. Dave Frizzell serves as the Majority Whip for the House. He also serves on the Family Children and Human Affairs Committee, the Public Health Committee and the Utilities and Energy Committee. Rep. Frizzell represents a portion of Marion and Johnson counties.
NOTE TO THE EDITOR: Attached is a photo of Hoosier dental hygienists and fellow members of the General Assembly joining Rep. Frizzell and Governor Pence at the bill signing of HEA 1061. |
