The bill amends various sections of Florida Statutes to establish a regulatory framework for dental therapy, including the creation of a new Council on Dental Therapy under the Board of Dentistry. It introduces definitions for "dental therapist" and "dental therapy," outlines licensure requirements, and mandates continuing education for dental therapists. Key provisions include the authorization for Medicaid to reimburse services provided in mobile dental units, the requirement for dental therapists to complete 24 to 36 hours of continuing education biennially, and the stipulation that dentists remain primarily responsible for patient care, even when services are rendered by dental therapists. The bill also introduces criminal penalties for unlicensed practice and revises disciplinary actions related to dental therapy.

Additionally, the bill modifies existing language regarding the roles of dental therapists, allowing them to administer local anesthesia under specific conditions and establishing collaborative management agreements with supervising dentists. It clarifies the responsibilities of the dentist of record in patient care and includes provisions for the use of X-ray machines by dental therapists. The Department of Health, in collaboration with relevant agencies, is tasked with submitting progress reports on the implementation of dental therapy training programs and licensing, with the first report due by July 1, 2028. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 82 Filed: 409.906, 466.001, 466.004, 466.006, 466.009, 466.011, 466.016, 466.018, 466.026