Ohio mulls bill to increase access to dental care

Ohio lawmakers are considering a bill to increase access to dental care, which includes doubling the student loan repayment program and expanding the role of dental auxiliaries.

HB 463, which was introduced by state Rep. Terry Johnson (R-McDermott) and passed the House of Representatives with a 95-0 vote, would expand access to dental care in a comprehensive, safe way and maximize the current dental care infrastructure and delivery system, according to the Ohio Dental Association, which supports the measure.

The proposal includes the following:

• Doubling the capacity of the state Dentist Student Loan Repayment program, which provides loan repayment assistance for new dental graduates who practice in a designated shortage area and treat patients regardless of their ability to pay. Currently, the program is fully funded by a $20 fee on dentists' licensure renewal fees. The proposal would double this fee.
• Expanding the role of current dental team members, including hygienists and expanded function dental auxiliaries, to help meet the needs of underserved populations.
• Providing an incentive for participation in dental residency programs, an important part of the dental safety net that provides care to underserved populations.
• Creating a study committee on Medicaid reimbursement rates for dental services to analyze the current program and make recommendations on proper reimbursement levels and policies.
• Providing no-interest loans for dental equipment to be used in state-defined underserved areas.
• Allowing four dental hygienists to work under the supervision of one dentist to enhance patient capacity.
• Reforming the Choose Ohio First scholarship program to permit scholarship awards for qualified applicants to dental schools in Ohio.
• Establishing a temporary professional license for volunteer dental providers who are properly licensed in another jurisdiction.