The bill amends various sections of the Florida Statutes to enhance the practice and regulation of dental therapy, including the establishment of a Council on Dental Therapy under the Board of Dentistry. It authorizes Medicaid to reimburse for dental services provided in mobile dental units, thereby expanding access to care for Medicaid recipients. Key provisions include the definition of "dental therapist" and "dental therapy," requirements for licensure and continuing education, and the establishment of collaborative management agreements between dental therapists and supervising dentists. The bill also introduces penalties for practicing without a license and revises disciplinary grounds for dental professionals.

Additionally, the bill outlines specific licensure requirements for dental therapists, including the completion of continuing education and examination criteria. It emphasizes the importance of compliance with training for administering anesthesia and clarifies the responsibilities of dental professionals in managing patient records. The Department of Health is mandated to collaborate with relevant agencies to submit reports on the implementation of dental therapy programs and their impact on patient access and service quality, with the act 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