Bill > HB584

This bill revises Montana's laws regarding dental anesthesia by establishing a comprehensive permitting and inspection system for dentists administering different levels of sedation. The bill requires dentists to obtain a permit from the Board of Dentistry to administer deep sedation, general anesthesia, or moderate sedation, with the board authorized to set minimum qualifications for education, continuing education, and experience. The board can also establish standards for equipment, supplies, and drugs necessary for each type of sedation. The bill mandates an initial inspection of each sedation permit location, with reinspections occurring no more than every 5 years, and allows the board to charge fees for application, permit renewal, and inspections. Additionally, the bill introduces new definitions for sedation levels, including minimal sedation and moderate sedation, which clarify the degrees of consciousness and medical intervention required for each category. The legislation also provides for a temporary permit that allows a licensed dentist to administer sedation for up to 120 days while awaiting a full inspection, giving practitioners more flexibility in their practice. These changes aim to enhance patient safety by ensuring dentists meet specific standards and have proper equipment and training before administering various levels of sedation.

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https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC0452