Bill
HF 338
Bill HF 338 allows trained dental assistants to administer local anesthesia under dentist supervision, enhancing efficiency and patient care in dental practices.
Bill Number: HF 338
Title: A bill for an act relating to the administration of local anesthesia by dental assistants.
Status: Introduced, referred to Health and Human Services
Introduced Date: February 12, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Dental Care
The primary purpose of Bill HF 338 is to amend existing regulations regarding the scope of practice for registered dental assistants, specifically concerning their ability to administer local anesthesia. The bill seeks to empower dental assistants with additional responsibilities, thereby potentially improving the efficiency of dental care delivery.
Amendment to Section 153.38: The bill proposes to amend Section 153.38 of the Code 2025, which outlines the scope of practice for dental assistants.
Expanded Functions: Registered dental assistants who have completed additional education and training, as determined by the dental board, may be certified to perform expanded functions. This includes the potential to administer local anesthesia, which is currently prohibited.
Supervision Requirement: All services performed by dental assistants must be under the supervision of a licensed dentist. However, the bill clarifies that dental assistants cannot practice dentistry or dental hygiene independently.
Delegation of Responsibilities: Licensed dentists utilizing the services of dental assistants will be responsible for the acts delegated to them. Dentists can only delegate tasks that are authorized by the dental board.
Removal of Prohibition: The bill specifically strikes a provision that currently prohibits the dental board from adopting rules that would allow dental assistants to administer local anesthesia.
Dental Assistants: If passed, this bill would significantly expand the scope of practice for registered dental assistants, allowing them to administer local anesthesia after appropriate training and certification.
Dental Practices: Dental practices may experience increased efficiency and improved patient care, as dental assistants could take on more responsibilities, potentially reducing the workload on dentists.
Regulatory Changes: The dental board will have the authority to establish rules and guidelines regarding the training and certification process for dental assistants wishing to administer local anesthesia.
Current Status: The bill was introduced on February 12, 2025, and has been referred to the Health and Human Services committee for further consideration.
Next Steps: The bill will undergo discussions and potential amendments within the committee before it can be brought to the floor for a vote.
This summary provides an overview of Bill HF 338, highlighting its intent, key provisions, and potential impacts on dental care practices and dental assistants.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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