HOUSE BILL REPORT
HB 1721
As Reported by House Committee On:
Health Care
Title: An act relating to the practice of dentistry by students in accredited state dental schools.
Brief Description: Concerning dentistry.
Sponsors: Representatives Moeller, Boldt, Fromhold and Wallace.
Brief History:
Committee Activity:
Health Care: 2/18/03, 2/20/03 [DPS].
Brief Summary of Substitute Bill |
• Allows students in accredited dental schools to practice dentistry in Washington under the supervision of a licensed dentist who is a faculty member at a dental school. |
HOUSE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH CARE
Majority Report: The substitute bill be substituted therefor and the substitute bill do pass. Signed by 13 members: Representatives Cody, Chair; Morrell, Vice Chair; Pflug, Ranking Minority Member; Bailey, Assistant Ranking Minority Member; Alexander, Benson, Campbell, Clibborn, Darneille, Edwards, Moeller, Schual-Berke and Skinner.
Staff: Chris Blake (786-7392).
Background:
Dental schools generally require a college degree for admission and last for four years. Study includes classroom instruction and laboratory work in the sciences as well as supervised treatment of patients during the last two years.
The Dental Quality Assurance Commission regulates the practice of dentistry in Washington. The practice of dentistry includes representing oneself as able to perform dental services, offering to perform dental services, operating an office for the practice of dentistry, or engaging in any practice that is included in dental school curricula. Unlicensed practice of dentistry is subject to penalties under the Uniform Disciplinary Act.
Summary of Substitute Bill:
An exception that allows the practice of dentistry by Washington dental students is broadened to include any student in an accredited dental school approved by the Department of Health. The student may only practice under the direction and supervision of a dentist licensed in Washington who is a faculty member at a dental school.
Substitute Bill Compared to Original Bill:
Eliminates the requirement that the student be enrolled in a state dental school.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not Requested.
Effective Date of Substitute Bill: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Testimony For: Broadening this exception to the practice of dentistry requirements will increase the availability of dental providers in community-based clinics.
Testimony Against: None.
Testified: Representative Moeller, prime sponsor; and Linda Hull and Marty Matovich, Washington State Dental Association.