State Board of Dental Examiners - Expanded Function Dental Assistants - Education and Reinstatement
The implementation of HB 573 is expected to have a direct impact on state laws regarding the qualifications necessary for dental assistants. The bill mandates that courses for initial certification include substantial in-person learning. This holistic approach to education is geared towards enhancing the quality of dental assistance in Maryland, potentially paving the way for improvements in patient care across dental practices. Additionally, the bill stipulates that the Board must adopt regulations for ongoing education, which is vital for maintaining standards in a rapidly evolving dental field.
House Bill 573 seeks to enhance the standards and procedures governing the certification and continued employment of expanded function dental assistants within Maryland. By empowering the State Board of Dental Examiners to approve specific courses of study, the bill ensures that potential dental assistants receive adequate training to perform their duties effectively. It introduces requirements for a mix of online and in-person instruction, ensuring that budding assistants gain practical experience alongside theoretical knowledge. The legislation is positioned to streamline the certification process and better equip dental assistants with the skills needed for modern practice.
Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 573 appears to be positive, with support arising from various stakeholders, including healthcare professionals who recognize the importance of well-trained dental assistants in improving service quality. There is broad acknowledgment that enhanced training protocols could lead to better outcomes in dental practices. However, there may be concerns among some practices about the potential increase in operational costs associated with implementing these expanded training programs.
One notable point of contention that could arise relates to the logistic and financial implications of the mandated training and certification requirements. Some critics might argue that the additional requirements could create barriers for individuals seeking to enter the dental assistant profession, particularly regarding access to the approved educational programs. Furthermore, the emphasis on ongoing education and fee structures for renewals could be seen as burdensome for current dental assistants who may face challenges in balancing continuing education with their work commitments.