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The ability of hygienists to work with low-income patients in Georgia was in jeopardy.
But nothing will change now that the rejected a law that would have required a dentist to examine a patient before a hygienist was allowed to apply any type of sealant, clean teeth or perform any other kind of dental service to a patient.
As of now, Georgia hygienists are allowed to visit schools and examine patients in low-income areas. If a dentist was required to examine the patient first, hygienists wouldn’t be able to perform any kind of dental treatment on their own.
The Georgia Dental Association claimed that this proposed law would have clearly defined what a dental hygienist is allowed to do.
It was determined that the law will be voted on again in 90 days. The proposal was originally introduced in January.
But the Georgia Board of Dentistry saw a great deal of opposition to the rule. The Georgia Dental Hygienists’ Association was not only concerned with the impact it would have on the hygienists, but the ability for people to receive dental care as well.
The Federal Trade Commission is against the proposed law because the cost of dental services would likely increase and the amount of people who receive dental care would likely decrease.
Despite the decision to not put the law in place, this controversy may not go away any time soon.
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