Texas House Bill HB3670

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/27/09
• Voted on by House: 5/12/09
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/20/09

Caption

Relating to the regulation of the practice of dental assistants, including the delegation of certain dental acts.

Impact

If enacted, HB 3670 could significantly change how dental practices operate within Texas. By allowing licensed dentists to delegate authorized tasks to trained dental assistants, the bill could streamline dental services and improve patient care in dental offices. However, these changes come with additional training requirements and the necessity for certifications in certain tasks, including coronal polishing and pit and fissure sealants, thus ensuring that patients are treated by adequately trained personnel while alleviating dentists' workloads.

Summary

House Bill 3670 aims to regulate the practice of dental assistants in Texas by specifying the circumstances under which dentists can delegate certain dental acts to them. The bill amends existing Occupational Code provisions to clarify the definition of dental acts that may be performed by assistants under the direct or general supervision of a licensed dentist. This regulatory framework is intended to enhance patient safety by ensuring only qualified individuals perform specific dental tasks.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding HB 3670 is the balance between expanding the dental assistant's role in practice and the ensuring of safety and professionalism in dental care. Advocates of the bill argue that the structured delegation of duties can increase efficiency and access to dental care, particularly in underserved areas. On the other hand, detractors might express concerns about the potential for insufficient training leading to lower care standards or the risks associated with greater responsibilities for dental assistants.