Massachusetts dental providers recently debated an interstate dental compact being considered by legislators, Masslive.com reported July 14.
Four notes:
1. State legislators are considering legislation to join two different compacts: the Interstate Dental & Dental Hygiene Licensure Compact, and the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact.
2. The IDDHLC is backed by the American Association of Dental Boards, while the DDHC is backed by the Council of State Governments and the American Dental Association. The compacts have key differences.
3. During a July 14 legislative hearing, some providers argued that the DDHC framework poses safety risks by not requiring certain clinical skill exams. Another provider raised concerns about the compact diminishing the state’s authority over licensees.
4. The DDHC has already been activated, while the IDDHLC needs five states in order to be activated. Louisiana recently became the first state to enact legislation to join the IDDHLC, while several other states are considering joining.
