SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 6138
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
As of January 24, 2014
Title: An act relating to credential renewal requirements for dental professionals.
Brief Description: Allowing the Washington state dental quality assurance commission to adopt rules regarding credential renewal requirements for dental professionals.
Sponsors: Senators Bailey, Pedersen, Parlette and Kline; by request of Department of Health.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Health Care: 1/23/14.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH CARE |
Staff: Bonnie Kim (786-7316)
Background: An expanded function dental auxiliary is licensed by the Washington State Dental Quality Assurance Commission (DQAC) to provide supportive services to a licensed supervising dentist. In general licensure requires completion of approved dental assisting and expanded function dental auxiliary education programs, and successful passage of approved written and clinical examinations. The statute does not provide for continuing education requirements for license renewal.
An expanded function dental auxiliary may perform all the services of a dental assistant. In addition, the supervising dentist may allow an expanded function dental auxiliary under general supervision to perform coronal polishing, give fluoride treatments, apply sealants, take and develop x-ray film, and give patients oral instruction. The supervising dentist may also allow an expanded function dental auxiliary to place and carve direct restorations and to take final impressions under close supervision.
Summary of Bill: DQAC may adopt rules setting continuing education requirements for expanded function dental auxiliary license renewals.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: Continuing education (CE) is important and Washington should have CE requirements for developing professions such as expanded function dental auxiliaries. Expanded function dental auxiliaries are the only dental professionals in Washington not required to satisfy CE requirements for license renewals. CE is a vital part of protecting public health and safety.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Senator Bailey, prime sponsor; Colleen Madden, Dept. of Health, DQAC.