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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2023 - 2024
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | June 6, 2023 01:06 PM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Kyle Donahue |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Public Health Dental Hygiene Practitioners to Provide School Dental Screenings |
| Schools play a large role in the delivery of dental services. Studies show that school-based dental programs reduce cavities in children by 50%. With tooth decay being the most common chronic childhood disease, the state-mandated dental program was developed to require dental examinations for all students entering kindergarten, and when students reach third and seventh grade. However, with only school dentists allowed to conduct these screenings, the statewide shortages of school personnel are making it difficult for children to be adequately and regularly screened. Because of this, I am proposing legislation that utilizes Public Health Dental Hygiene Practitioners (PHDHPs) to perform this important service. By allowing PHDHPs to conduct the screening, it will give school districts greater flexibility around fulfilling the requirement. It is often said that oral health is a window into one’s overall health, as dental issues can affect the rest of the body. If we allow PHDHPs to also conduct these screenings, we will be able to be proactive with our children’s health and overall wellbeing. Please join me in addressing the dental health needs of Pennsylvania students. |
Introduced as HB1337