FINAL BILL REPORT

                  HB 1699

                         C 364 L 99

                     Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description:  Establishing continuing education for dentists.

Sponsors:  Representatives Parlette, Cody, Schoesler, Barlean, Esser, Edmonds and Van Luven.

House Committee on Health Care

Senate Committee on Health & Long-Term Care

Background:

The practice of dentistry is licensed by the Department of Health.  The Dental Quality Assurance Commission qualifies applicants for licensure and acts as the disciplinary authority for unprofessional conduct under the Uniform Disciplinary Act.

Continuing education is a method of staying current with new developments in science and technology by taking approved courses or learning opportunities related to a field of expertise.  A number of the regulated health professions require continuing education as a condition for the renewal of professional licenses.

The dental commission does not have authority to establish a program of continuing dental education.

Summary:

The Dental Quality Assurance Commission is required to establish a continuing dental education program for applicants renewing their dental licenses.  After July 1, 2001, dentists must meet requirements for continuing education as a condition of renewing their dental licenses.

Votes on Final Passage:

House970

Senate490(Senate amended)

House970(House concurred)

Effective:July 25, 1999