Legislation to broaden Alaskans’ access to dental care passed the House floor on a 34-1 vote. If passed, House Bill 111 would establish a special permit to allow experienced, Alaska-licensed dental hygienists to provide preventative oral health care to underserved populations.
Rep. Ivy Spohnholz:
“House Bill 111 creates an advanced practice permit, which will allow experienced licensed dental hygienists to provide preventative oral healthcare to underserved populations at senior centers, healthcare facilities, schools and to Alaskans who are eligible for public assistance or who live in an underserved area. We know that oral healthcare plays a really important role in folks overall health. Poor bad oral health is linked to cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and lots of other health issues. This is worse among those who are underserved by dental healthcare. Most low-income Alaskans don’t get regular healthcare because they either don’t have access to it or they can’t afford it or they’re fearful that they can’t afford it. Currently, dental hygienists can practice in a dentist practice, or they can practice semi-independently if they have a collaborative agreement with a dentist much like physician’s assistants do. This advanced practice permit will allow dental hygienists to care for underserved populations.”
The intent of the legislation is to empower dental hygienists to use their professional skills in settings where Alaskans reside, such as nursing homes, schools, hospitals, and clinics. By removing traditional barriers of service, more Alaskans can achieve better healthcare outcomes and address oral problems at earlier stages.
HB 111 is supported by the industry and has been endorsed by the Alaskan Dental hygienists’ Association, Alaska Dental Society, Alaska Board of Dental Examiners, Alaska Native Health Board, and Alaska Primary Care Association.
The bill now goes to the Senate for consideration.
Transcribed audio courtesy of KTOO 360TV.