To improve oral health for all Massachusetts residents
If enacted, HB 2253 will amend several existing chapters in the General Laws, particularly concerning the roles and responsibilities of dental health providers. Licensed dental therapists will gain the ability to administer non-narcotic medications and perform certain dental procedures while supervised by a dentist. This legislative move is expected to alleviate gaps in dental care access, particularly in rural areas or regions experiencing a shortage of dental professionals. Furthermore, the bill mandates annual reassessments and reports to track the impact of these changes on access to dental services and the effectiveness of dental therapists in providing care.
House Bill 2253 aims to enhance access to oral health care for Massachusetts residents, focusing particularly on expanding the roles of dental therapists in underserved communities. The bill proposes the establishment of a collaborative management agreement between licensed dental therapists and supervising dentists, allowing dental therapists to perform certain procedures under general supervision. This change seeks to broaden the scope of oral health services provided to vulnerable populations, including those receiving benefits through the division of medical assistance and individuals identified as underserved. The legislation emphasizes the importance of primary dental screenings in schools and the dissemination of information on affordable dental care services.
Supporters of HB 2253 argue that the expanded role of dental therapists will address the significant barriers to dental care that many Massachusetts residents face, particularly those in low-income and rural communities. However, some stakeholders express concerns over the quality of care provided by dental therapists and the implications of less direct supervision from licensed dentists. Discussions among legislators and health advocates have highlighted the need for strong regulatory frameworks to ensure patient safety while implementing such health care innovations.