NHBODE Dental Hygiene Committee Update
Prescription Writing!
Senate Bill 377 took effect on August 24, 2018. It includes expansion of RSA317-A;21 c which now allows the administration, prescription and dispensing of a fluoride supplement, topically applied fluoride and chlorhexidine gluconate oral rinse as dental hygieine service. There will be rulemaking changes needed since supervision is no longer required for this service.
This new law is a direct result of several years of hard work, research, writing and presenting proposals by all members of the Dental Hygiene Committee. The DHC spent much time working on this exciting preventive privelage and making it a reality. It is a good example of professional collaboration for success between the DHC and the NHBODE.
However, even though RDHs can now write prescriptions, the Rx probably won't be filled due to lack of knowledge by pharmacists of the new law. Michael Bullek, Administrator/Chief of Compliance, NH Board of Pharmacy presented language for Dental Hygiene Prescription Authority to the board at the October meeting. The language will be studied further by the board before it accepts. Once accepted, rules changes needed for compliance for both boards should be completed by early 2019. In summary, although prescription writing for RDHs is now law in NH, the rules need to be written. The DHC is proud of its accomplishment.
Dental Hygiene Frequently Asked Questions
The Dental Hygiene Committee has completed its final list of frequently asked questions (FAQ) for NH RDH's. The list was developed for the purpose that RDH's may refer to it to self -evaluate their compliance with the current rules.
The Dental Hygiene FAQ's are informational only. It is the licensee's obligation to read and understand the NH State Statute and Rules, which may be found at www.oplc.nh.gov/dental.
