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SCS/SBs 1027 & 815 - This act allows additional persons to provide certain dental treatments to children and establishes a dental hygienist advisory commission.

Section 167.181 currently requires children to be immunized. New language states that when a child is receiving an immunization, the physician may also administer the appropriate fluoride treatment to the child. Currently, Section 192.070 requires the Bureau of Child Hygiene to issue educational literature. New language states that such literature should include the importance of routine dental care for children.

Section 332.086 remains in the substitute, which establishes the five member advisory commission. It shall include the dental hygienist currently serving on the Missouri Dental Board. The Commission will review educational requirements and make recommendations to the Dental Board regarding the practice of dental hygiene. All members shall be appointed by April 1, 2001. The Dental Board shall provide all necessary staff and support for the Commission.

Section 332.311 currently prohibits dental hygienists from practicing without the supervision of a dentist. New language creates an exception to this rule by allowing a dental hygienist who is practicing in a public health setting to provide fluoride treatments, teeth cleaning, and sealants, if appropriate, to children who are eligible for Medicaid. These procedures may be done without the supervision of a dentist. Medicaid shall reimburse all dentists, dental hygienists, and pediatricians who provide the above services at seventy-five percent of the usual and customary cost, which will be determined by the Division of Medical Services by rule. This provision will expire on August 28, 2005.

Portions of this act are substantially similar to HB 1413 (2000).

ERIN MOTLEY