Expanded duty (expanded function) of dental hygienist in Illinois and New York? Do they need to take additional courses?
Does the state allow mid level hygiene (such as RDHAP)? How do you become the one in both state?
Expanded Duty (Expanded Function) of Dental Hygienists in Illinois and New York
Dental hygienists play a crucial role in oral healthcare by providing preventive and therapeutic services. In the United States, the scope of practice for dental hygienists varies by state, with certain states allowing expanded duties or functions. This essay explores the expanded duties of dental hygienists in Illinois and New York, the educational requirements for these roles, and whether these states allow mid-level hygiene practice, such as Registered Dental Hygienist in Alternative Practice (RDHAP).
Expanded Duty Dental Hygienists in Illinois
In Illinois, dental hygienists are permitted to perform expanded duties under the supervision of a licensed dentist. These duties may include administering local anesthesia, nitrous oxide sedation, and other advanced procedures, such as placing temporary restorations and sealants. To perform expanded functions, dental hygienists in Illinois must meet specific requirements, such as obtaining additional certifications through accredited courses. For example, administering local anesthesia requires completing an approved program and passing the state licensure exam.
Illinois does not currently recognize mid-level hygiene practice models like RDHAP. However, dental hygienists may work in collaborative agreements with dentists in certain public health settings without the dentist’s direct supervision. This model is designed to increase access to oral health care in underserved areas.
To expand their scope of practice, dental hygienists in Illinois should:
- Hold an active Illinois dental hygienist license.
- Complete additional coursework approved by the Illinois State Board of Dentistry.
- Pass any required certification exams for specific expanded functions.
Expanded Duty Dental Hygienists in New York
In New York, dental hygienists can also perform a range of expanded duties under the supervision of a licensed dentist. These include administering local infiltration anesthesia and nitrous oxide sedation, applying cavity-preventing agents, and placing temporary restorations. Similar to Illinois, New York requires dental hygienists to complete additional training and certification to perform certain advanced functions. For example, to administer local anesthesia, a dental hygienist must complete an accredited training program and receive approval from the New York State Education Department.
New York does not have a mid-level dental hygiene role such as RDHAP. However, dental hygienists can practice under a limited permit in settings like schools and public health facilities, which allows them to provide care without direct supervision. This provision aims to enhance access to preventive dental care in underserved communities.
To perform expanded functions in New York, dental hygienists must:
- Hold a current New York State dental hygiene license.
- Complete approved additional training or certification programs.
- Fulfill any state-specific requirements for expanded duties.
Mid-Level Hygiene Practice: RDHAP
The RDHAP role is a mid-level dental provider model that allows dental hygienists to work independently in underserved areas, typically without direct supervision from a dentist. This model is recognized in states like California but not in Illinois or New York. Both states focus on collaborative agreements and public health permits to address oral health disparities.
To become an RDHAP in states where it is recognized, a dental hygienist must:
- Hold an active dental hygiene license.
- Complete additional education, such as an RDHAP-specific training program.
- Meet clinical experience requirements, often totaling 2,000 hours or more.
- Obtain a separate license or certification to practice independently.
Conclusion
In Illinois and New York, dental hygienists can perform expanded duties that improve the efficiency and effectiveness of oral healthcare delivery. These states require additional education and certifications for specific expanded functions but do not allow mid-level hygiene roles like RDHAP. To practice to the fullest extent of their training, dental hygienists in both states must navigate licensure requirements and collaborate with dentists to address public health needs. Although RDHAP is not currently an option in Illinois or New York, both states provide avenues for dental hygienists to enhance their skills and make a significant impact on community oral health.
The post Expanded Duty (expanded function) of Dental Hygienist appeared first on Academic Research Experts.