Kansas Senate Bill SB103

Kansas 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/26/23
• Refer: 1/27/23
• Refer: 2/23/23
• Refer: 3/1/23
• Report Pass: 2/15/24
• Failed: 4/30/24

Caption

Updating certain provisions of the Kansas dental practices act relating to dentist information requested by patients, in-person practice requirements in dental office using licensee's name, unprofessional conduct and patient complaints.

Impact

The changes outlined in SB 103 will notably impact the regulations governing dental practices in Kansas. By eliminating the minimum presence requirement for a licensed dentist's physical presence at their practice, the bill enables dentists to operate under company names or associations more flexibly while maintaining compliance with licensing laws. This amendment also reinforces the authority of the Kansas dental board to discipline practitioners who fail to adhere to these updated requirements or violate patient trust.

Summary

Senate Bill 103 seeks to revise specific provisions within the Kansas dental practices act, primarily focusing on enhancing patient rights and updating regulations surrounding dental practice. The bill mandates that treating dentists provide patients with essential information upon request, including their name, contact details, and Kansas state license number, thus enhancing transparency and accountability within the dental profession. Additionally, it aims to prevent practices that could inhibit patients from filing complaints against dental professionals, such as restrictive agreements.

Contention

While proponents of the bill argue that these amendments will empower patients and allow for more efficient dental practices, critics may view the removal of the minimum presence requirements as a potential risk to patient care quality. The balance between ensuring adequate patient supervision and enabling dental professionals to optimize their practice structure remains a point of contention. By safeguarding patient rights while facilitating more modern operational approaches for dental offices, SB 103 aims to address contemporary challenges within the dental field.