Tennessee Senate Bill SB2075

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/29/24
• Engrossed: 2/22/24
• Enrolled: 2/28/24
• Passed: 3/12/24
• Chaptered: 3/19/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 63-5-108, relative to the number of dental hygienists supervised by a dentist.

Impact

This amendment to the existing law is anticipated to facilitate increased access to dental care services, especially in underserved communities, by enabling dentists to supervise more hygienists under direct supervision, particularly in mobile clinics and health departments. The provisions aim to enhance the operational capacity of dental health initiatives, thereby improving public health outcomes while ensuring regulatory compliance in dental practice.

Summary

Senate Bill 2075 aims to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 63-5-108, concerning the supervision limits of dental hygienists by dentists. The bill specifies that under normal circumstances, a licensed dentist may supervise no more than three dental hygienists at any one time. However, it creates specific provisions allowing for more hygienists to be supervised under certain conditions, such as during volunteer services through nonprofit providers or in collaboration with health departments.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 2075 appears to be largely favorable, particularly among dental professionals and public health advocates who see it as a necessary step to broaden access to dental hygiene services. The bill has garnered support for its potential positive impact on community health. However, there may be some concerns regarding the quality of supervision and training as more hygienists are allowed to be supervised simultaneously, especially in less regulated environments.

Contention

While the provision to allow more hygienists under specific circumstances is largely viewed positively, there may be contention regarding the adequate oversight and training of the dental hygienists involved. Critics might express concerns that increasing the number of supervised hygienists could stretch resources too thin and affect the quality of care provided. The balance between expanding access to dental services and ensuring high standards of care remains a critical conversation point.