In addition to enabling Medicaid payments for services performed in mobile units, HB H0997 modifies existing regulations concerning the practice of dental hygienists. It eliminates the requirement for dental hygienists to demonstrate specific skills on live patients for licensure, broadening the scope of tasks they may undertake. The bill allows licensed dental hygienists to apply interim therapeutic restorations and perform various other remediable tasks in settings where dentist supervision is less stringent, such as in mobile units serving underprivileged communities.
Summary
House Bill H0997 focuses on enhancing dental care services within the state of Florida, particularly through Medicaid. The bill aims to authorize Medicaid reimbursements for dental services provided in mobile dental units, which cater to vulnerable and underserved populations. Specifically, mobile dental units that are either owned or operated by certain health access settings or which have contractual agreements with these providers will be eligible for reimbursements. This provision seeks to reduce barriers to accessing dental care for those who may face challenges in getting treatment through traditional means.
Contention
The amendments proposed in H0997 are not without controversy. Advocates argue that loosening restrictions around dental hygiene practice and expanding Medicaid reimbursements will significantly improve access to necessary dental services among populations that are typically underserved, including those in group homes and homeless shelters. However, critics have raised concerns about the potential reduction in oversight and the quality of care provided by dental hygienists, fearing that these changes may compromise patient safety. The discussions surrounding this bill reflect a tension between increasing access to care and maintaining regulatory oversight in healthcare practices.