The bill amends Section 5-31.1-39 of the General Laws concerning public health dental hygienists, allowing them to perform dental hygiene procedures in public health settings without the immediate supervision of a dentist. The definition of public health hygienists is clarified, and the settings in which they can operate are expanded to include various facilities such as schools, nursing homes, and community health centers. Additionally, public health dental hygienists are required to enter into a written collaborative agreement with a local or state agency or a licensed dentist to ensure proper communication and consultation regarding patient health and safety.

Significantly, the bill modifies reimbursement provisions for public health dental hygienists. It deletes the previous restriction that they "shall not" seek reimbursement from other insurance or third-party payors, replacing it with language that allows them to "may" seek such reimbursement. This change enables public health dental hygienists to receive direct reimbursement from Medicaid or state healthcare insurance programs while also allowing them to pursue reimbursement from other sources, such as Medicare. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
5736: 5-31.1-39