DENTIST&DEN HYGIENIST COMPACT
If enacted, the compact will lead to a more mobile workforce of dental practitioners, paving the way for better distribution of dental services, particularly in areas experiencing shortages. The legislation establishes guidelines and mechanisms for state participation, eligibility for practitioners, and jurisdictional cooperation. Importantly, it aims to maintain the authority of state governments to regulate dental practice within their borders while allowing licensed practitioners from other states to practice under a defined compact privilege. This dual approach seeks to balance both regulatory oversight and operational flexibility for healthcare providers.
SB2982, known as the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact Act, aims to improve public access to dental care by facilitating the interstate practice of dentistry and dental hygiene. The bill allows dentists and dental hygienists, licensed in one participating state, to practice in other participating states without needing to satisfy the often burdensome licensing requirements imposed by those states. This compact is designed to streamline the process for licensed professionals to operate across state lines, thereby addressing significant workforce shortages in the dental field and enhancing service availability to the public.
Despite the potential benefits, notable points of contention surrounding SB2982 include concerns about maintaining high standards of practice and ensuring patient safety across state lines. Critics may argue that the compact could lead to oversight challenges or dilute state-specific regulations that have developed to address local public health needs. Additionally, there may be apprehensions regarding how the compact will operate in terms of sharing licensure and disciplinary information, and how disputes between states might be resolved. The establishment and operation of the Commission also raise questions about governance, accountability, and funding.