Article Summary –
Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers has signed a bill to allow dental therapists to be licensed and work in the state, thus increasing access to dental care. Dental therapists, who can provide basic dental care at lower costs, are required to work in areas with federally defined dental care shortages or where at least half of the population are members of underserved communities. The new law is targeted at addressing the dental provider shortage in rural areas, tribal regions, and among low-income populations and Medicaid patients.
Accessible Dental Care: Wisconsin Licenses Dental Therapists
Dental care in Wisconsin is set to become more accessible as Gov. Tony Evers signed a bill on Jan. 31, enabling dental therapists to provide basic dental services, like cleanings, fillings, and extractions in the state.
Dental therapists are mid-level providers, akin to a physician’s assistant in a medical office, that offer affordable dental care primarily to rural and low-income residents. Data shows Wisconsin has 160 areas with a shortage of dental providers, warranting this move.
“This marks a significant step in addressing the dental healthcare workforce shortage and improving access to quality dental care across the state,” Evers stated.
Under the bill, dental therapists must serve in areas facing federally defined dental care shortages or where at least half the population belongs to underserved communities. This includes uninsured patients, Medicaid recipients, long-term care residents, tribal citizens, and veterans.
These professionals can provide dental care at a lower cost, benefiting patients who use Medicaid or the state’s BadgerCare program. Currently, only around 38% of Wisconsin dentists accept Medicaid patients due to low coverage costs, reports Wisconsin State Journal.
Dental therapists will work under a dentist’s supervision in Wisconsin health care facilities. They can also provide off-site care, making visits to schools or nursing homes according to the National Partnership for Dental Therapy.
To be licensed, candidates must complete a training program accredited by the American Dental Association and pass any required examinations to meet the Dental Examining Board’s standards.
With this, Wisconsin joins 13 other states that license dental therapists, overcoming opposition from the Wisconsin Dental Association and Marquette University.
Evers also signed bills to support dental training programs, recruit and train dentistry students in rural areas, and expand the Children’s Hospital Dental Center.
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