Oregon removes mental health questions from dental license applications

The Oregon Board of Dentistry voted to remove stigmatizing questions related to mental health from its dental licensing process. 

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The board voted to remove “have you ever” questions related to receiving counseling, therapy or treatment for mental health issues, including substance misuse from both initial and renewal applications, according to a Jan. 31 news release from the American Dental Association. 

Advocacy efforts for licensure reform were led by the Oregon Dental Association, the Oregon Dental Hygienists’ Association, Permanente Dental Associates, Willamette Dental Group, Gentle Dental, Delta Dental of Oregon and Capitol Dental.

The new language aligns with changes made by the Oregon Medical Board for physicians. 

The changes are expected to take effect by February, the release said.

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