Kentucky Oral Health Coalition (KOHC) is committed to increasing oral health literacy and improving access to care for all Kentuckians. Achieving optimal oral health relies on healthy oral care habits at home and regular preventive visits to oral health professionals for screenings and cleanings, and treatment if needed.
A recent surveillance study of early learners across the state revealed alarming rates of decay among our youngest Kentuckians – highlighting the need for increased access to preventive and treatment care. Among the recommendations that emerged from the study was an effort to expand the reach and impact of Public Health Registered Dental Hygienists – an important oral health prevention model successfully operating in Kentucky.
What is a Public Health Registered Dental Hygienist?
A Public Health Registered Dental Hygienist (PHRDH) is a Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH) that has earned an additional designation on their license to practice in public health programs. Their scope of work is the same as a dental hygienist and includes assessments of the mouth, dental cleanings, education, fluoride varnish, and dental sealants.
PHRDHs generally work in settings that see underserved populations and help to promote good oral habits and connect patients with a regular dentist for additional care and treatment. PHRDH programs can expand access to care and reach more Kentuckians than traditional dental offices by providing care in community settings, such as health departments or schools.
How can PHRDH programs reach more Kentuckians?
Kentucky law defines the scope of practice and settings in which PHRDH programs can operate and currently only allows these programs in public health departments, which often utilize PHRDHs to serve kids through school-based programming.
Kentucky can follow the lead of other states by expanding the practice settings for PHRDH programs to include Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC).
FQHCs provide care to underserved populations, including healthcare, oral healthcare, and behavioral healthcare in their communities. Expanding PHRDH programs to operate in these clinics represents a unique opportunity to reach more Kentucky kids for preventive dental care and connect kids to a dental home for needed treatment and ongoing routine care.
Take Action Today: Support HB 223
Join Kentucky Oral Health Coalition in supporting House Bill 223. Championed by Representative Derek Lewis, this bill provides opportunities to expand access to important preventive oral health care across the state.
Contact your state House member today and ask them to support House Bill 223.
