A Hawaii state representative plans to introduce legislation that would make it easier for out-of-state dentists to practice in Hawaii, the Honolulu Civil Beat reported Dec. 16.
Five things to know about the initiative:
- Unlike other states that allow dentists moving to a new state to practice if they meet certain criteria, Hawaii requires incoming out-of-state dentists to pass the American Board of Dental Examiners test.
- Hawaii state Rep. Sean Quinlan plans to introduce a bill that would update those requirements to alleviate workforce shortages.
- Mr. Quinlan's bill would allow Hawaii's Board of Dentistry to grant licenses to practicing dentists who are licensed in another state and meet certain qualifications. Applicants also cannot have been previously disciplined by another licensing board or have a documented history of negligence or incompetence.
- According to the American Dental Association, most states have a "licensure by credential" system that allows dentists to be granted a license if they have actively practiced for a certain amount of time.
- Kim Nguyen, executive director of the Hawaii Dental Association, said the organization does not think credentialing requirements are enough to ensure dentists who want to practice in the state are qualified.