The bill amends the West Virginia Dental Practice Act by introducing a new section, 30-4-8b, which establishes comprehensive regulations for teledentistry. It requires that providers offering teledentistry services be licensed in West Virginia and maintain professional liability insurance. The legislation emphasizes that teledentistry must adhere to the same standards of care as traditional in-person dental services, explicitly prohibiting the use of online questionnaires as the sole basis for treatment decisions and restricting the delegation of certain duties that necessitate in-person supervision. Additionally, it outlines the prerequisites for establishing a provider-patient relationship, which includes a review of medical records and an in-person examination, with exceptions for emergent care and initial orthodontic assessments that must be confirmed through subsequent in-person visits.

Moreover, the bill mandates that providers confirm patient identities, particularly for minors, and obtain informed written consent from patients or their guardians, ensuring proper documentation of consent and patient encounters. It also requires that a licensed dentist oversee all teledentistry treatments, maintaining accountability for patient care. Providers are prohibited from advertising teledentistry services unless they are licensed in the state and must include disclaimers about the limitations and safety concerns associated with teledentistry. The bill further outlines disciplinary actions for non-compliance, reinforcing the commitment to patient safety and quality care in teledentistry practices.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 30-4-3, 30-4-8a
Committee Substitute: 30-4-3, 30-4-8b
Enrolled Committee Substitute: 30-4-3, 30-4-8b