Bill > HF338

This bill modifies existing Iowa law regarding the scope of dental assistants' practice by removing a previous prohibition that prevented the dental board from creating rules allowing dental assistants to administer local anesthesia. Currently, registered dental assistants can perform various supportive tasks for licensed dentists under supervision, such as assisting in dental procedures, performing expanded functions after additional training, and placing dental sealants. The proposed change would empower the dental board to potentially develop rules and standards for dental assistants to administer local anesthesia, which was previously explicitly forbidden. This modification could expand the role and responsibilities of dental assistants in dental practices, potentially increasing efficiency and access to dental care by allowing trained dental assistants to perform additional clinical tasks under a dentist's supervision. The bill maintains existing protections by ensuring that licensed dentists remain responsible for acts delegated to dental assistants and that the board will continue to regulate what specific tasks dental assistants can perform.

Health and Social Services

https://www.legis.iowa.gov/legislation/BillBook?ga=91&ba=HF338