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Why the sudden changes?

Dr. Dennis Sommers, Minot

HB 1151 relating to telehealth within dentistry currently resides in the ND Senate. Amendments were added to the bill after earlier passage by the House that provided requirements for dental procedures and services sought by patients to be delivered by individuals with the proper educational background, licensure and supervision.

Telehealth within dentistry in North Dakota was on track – until March 24th. Without any explanation or opportunity for discussion or testimony, the Senate Human Services Committee added additional amendments unrelated to telehealth.

The additional changes would require removal and replacement all current members of the Board of Dentistry (Board) previously appointed by the Governor and also require replacement of its Executive Director. Such action has been proposed without foundation, explanation or opportunity for debate or testimony. If passed in the Senate, and with conflicts with the House version resolved, it also jeopardies existing and proposed elements for public safety within the practice of dentistry in North Dakota.

During 40 years of dental practice in North Dakota, I can’t recall any other proposal related to dentistry as misdirected and lacking of support or public input. Consider contacting your District’s senator as soon as possible to encourage a NO VOTE on HB 1151, as efforts to quickly pass the bill have been only temporarily delayed.

Sommers is past president of the North Dakota Dental Association

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