SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5526

BYSenators Rasmussen, Bender and Kiskaddon

Certifying denturists.

Senate Committee on Human Services & Corrections

Senate Hearing Date(s):March 5, 1987

Senate Staff:Jean Meyn (786-7472)

AS OF FEBRUARY 26, 1987

BACKGROUND:

According to the Health Professions Review Committee of the State Health Coordinating Council (SHCC), a problem of accessibility to low-cost denture service exists.  The staff analysis cites studies that demonstrate a slow decrease in the need for full dentures but an increase in the need for partials.  Other studies in the staff report demonstrate that the charges of denturists were significantly less than dentists, in Oregon and Canada, where denturists are certified.

Currently, an individual's care for dentures must be provided by a dentist, who pays a lab to make the dentures.  The SHCC and proponents of this bill recommend certification of trained denturists, who clients may hire directly.

SUMMARY:

Denturists are certified and may provide full and partial dentures directly to the public.  The Department of Licensing administers certification and examination with the advice of a state denturist advisory committee.

Insurance carriers may not deny benefits for denturist services if they cover the same service performed by dentists.

Fiscal Note:      requested