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<section article="gho" article_name="Health Occupations" number="4-308" title_number="4" title_name="Dentistry" subtitle_number="3" subtitle_name="Licensing">
  <level label="a">
    <text>A general license to practice dentistry issued under this title authorizes the licensee to practice dentistry while the license is effective.</text>
  </level>
  <level label="b">
    <text>While it is effective, a limited license to practice dentistry issued under this title authorizes the licensee to practice dentistry, including as an intern or a resident:</text>
    <level label="1">
      <text>Only for the institution or public health program named on the license; and</text>
    </level>
    <level label="2">
      <text>Only on patients of the institution or public health program named on the license.</text>
    </level>
  </level>
  <level label="c">
    <text>While it is effective, a retired volunteer dentist’s license or a volunteer dentist’s license to practice dentistry issued under this title authorizes the licensee to practice dentistry:</text>
    <level label="1">
      <text>Only in a dental office, dental clinic, ambulatory care facility, or hospital;</text>
    </level>
    <level label="2">
      <text>Only for an entity providing medical care to the poor, elderly, or disabled that is operated by:</text>
      <level label="i">
        <text>The State or a local government;</text>
      </level>
      <level label="ii">
        <text>A bona fide charitable organization; or</text>
      </level>
      <level label="iii">
        <text>Any other entity authorized under regulations adopted by the Board;</text>
      </level>
    </level>
    <level label="3">
      <text>If the dentist signs a written statement agreeing to donate at least 100 hours of dental services without compensation in a facility that satisfies the requirements of items (1) and (2) of this subsection;</text>
    </level>
    <level label="4">
      <text>If the dentist provides documentation as required by the Board which evidences that the licensee is covered by malpractice insurance; and</text>
    </level>
    <level label="5">
      <text>If the dentist does not otherwise practice dentistry for profit in Maryland.</text>
    </level>
  </level>
  <level label="d">
    <level label="1">
      <text>While it is effective, a temporary volunteer dentist’s license issued under this title authorizes the licensee to practice dentistry:</text>
      <level label="i">
        <text>Only in a temporary dental clinic providing medical care to the poor, elderly, or disabled that is operated by:</text>
        <level label="1">
          <text>A bona fide charitable organization;</text>
        </level>
        <level label="2">
          <text>The State or a local government; or</text>
        </level>
        <level label="3">
          <text>A local health department;</text>
        </level>
      </level>
      <level label="ii">
        <text>If:</text>
        <level label="1">
          <text>The dentist holds a general license to practice dentistry in another state that permits clinical practice and the dentist is not subject to clinical restrictions; and</text>
        </level>
        <level label="2">
          <text>The dentist has:</text>
        </level>
        <level label="A">
          <text>Passed the North East Regional Board Clinical Examination; or</text>
        </level>
        <level label="B">
          <text>Submitted to the Board a notarized affidavit or other evidence satisfactory to the Board indicating that for the 5 years preceding application, the applicant has actively engaged in practicing dentistry for at least 850 hours on average per year;</text>
        </level>
      </level>
      <level label="iii">
        <text>If the dentist has fulfilled any requirements of the Board relating to knowledge of the regulations adopted by the Board and the laws concerning the practice of dentistry in the State;</text>
      </level>
      <level label="iv">
        <text>If the dentist provides a notarized affidavit to the Board agreeing to donate dental services without compensation for a temporary dental clinic that satisfies the requirements of subsection (i) of this section;</text>
      </level>
      <level label="v">
        <text>If the dentist provides documentation as required by the Board that evidences that the dentist is covered by malpractice insurance;</text>
      </level>
      <level label="vi">
        <text>If the dentist does not otherwise practice dentistry for profit in the State; and</text>
      </level>
      <level label="vii">
        <text>If the dentist provides verification of current cardiopulmonary resuscitation certification.</text>
      </level>
    </level>
    <level label="2">
      <text>A dentist who holds a temporary volunteer dentist’s license may not administer, maintain, or monitor general anesthesia or sedation.</text>
    </level>
    <level label="3">
      <text>A dentist who holds a temporary volunteer dentist’s license may only provide services authorized under the Maryland Dentistry Act and the regulations adopted by the Board.</text>
    </level>
    <level label="4">
      <text>A dentist who holds a temporary volunteer dentist’s license or the temporary dental clinic in which the dentist is providing services shall provide a form to a patient at the conclusion of treatment that contains:</text>
      <level label="i">
        <text>A summary of the services that were provided to the patient by the dentist and, if applicable, the dental hygienist; and</text>
      </level>
      <level label="ii">
        <text>Instructions for any recommended follow–up dental care.</text>
      </level>
    </level>
    <level label="5">
      <text>The Board may deny a temporary volunteer dentist’s license on the grounds provided under § 4–315 of this subtitle.</text>
    </level>
    <level label="6">
      <text>A temporary volunteer dentist’s license issued to a dentist under this title shall be issued for the duration of the temporary dental clinic only and may not be renewed.</text>
    </level>
    <level label="7">
      <text>The Board may issue a temporary volunteer dentist’s license to a dentist who previously held a temporary volunteer dentist’s license if the dentist applies for a new license and satisfies the requirements of this subtitle.</text>
    </level>
    <level label="8">
      <text>The Board may not require continuing education as a condition for the issuance of a temporary volunteer dentist’s license.</text>
    </level>
  </level>
  <level label="e">
    <text>While it is effective, a teacher’s license to practice dentistry issued under this title authorizes the licensee to practice dentistry at only the following institutions:</text>
    <level label="1">
      <text>The institution named on the license; and</text>
    </level>
    <level label="2">
      <text>Other affiliated institutions as appropriate because of the specialized nature of the services to be performed.</text>
    </level>
  </level>
  <level label="f">
    <level label="1">
      <text>Except as provided in subsection (k) of this section, while it is effective, a general license to practice dental hygiene issued under this title authorizes the licensee to practice dental hygiene:</text>
      <level label="i">
        <text>Under the supervision of a licensed dentist who is:</text>
        <level label="1">
          <text>On the premises and available for personal consultation while the services are being performed; or</text>
        </level>
        <level label="2">
          <text>Not on the premises while authorized dental hygiene services are provided when the requirements of subsection (l) of this section have been fully satisfied; and</text>
        </level>
      </level>
      <level label="ii">
        <text>Only in a:</text>
        <level label="1">
          <text>Dental office;</text>
        </level>
        <level label="2">
          <text>Dental clinic;</text>
        </level>
        <level label="3">
          <text>Hospital;</text>
        </level>
        <level label="4">
          <text>School;</text>
        </level>
        <level label="5">
          <text>Charitable institution; or</text>
        </level>
        <level label="6">
          <text>Health maintenance organization certified by the State Insurance Commissioner.</text>
        </level>
      </level>
    </level>
    <level label="2">
      <level label="i">
        <text>The Board may waive, on a case by case basis only, the supervision requirements of this subsection for:</text>
        <level label="1">
          <text>A dental facility owned and operated by the federal, the State, or a local government;</text>
        </level>
        <level label="2">
          <text>A health facility licensed by the Maryland Department of Health;</text>
        </level>
        <level label="3">
          <text>A facility providing medical care to the poor, elderly, or handicapped that is owned and operated by:</text>
        </level>
        <level label="A">
          <text>The State or a local government; or</text>
        </level>
        <level label="B">
          <text>A bona fide charitable organization; or</text>
        </level>
        <level label="4">
          <text>Any other setting authorized under regulations adopted by the Board.</text>
        </level>
      </level>
      <level label="ii">
        <text>A waiver is not required to practice dental hygiene under general supervision in accordance with subsection (k) of this section.</text>
      </level>
    </level>
    <level label="3">
      <text>The Board may grant a waiver under paragraph (2) of this subsection if:</text>
      <level label="i">
        <text>The facility requesting the waiver has submitted a written application;</text>
      </level>
      <level label="ii">
        <text>The facility requesting the waiver has submitted a medical emergency plan of action at the time of application; and</text>
      </level>
      <level label="iii">
        <text>The Board finds that:</text>
        <level label="1">
          <text>Good cause exists to justify the granting of the waiver;</text>
        </level>
        <level label="2">
          <text>Adequate facilities and equipment, including portable equipment where appropriate and appropriate armamentarium, are available for the appropriate delivery of dental hygiene services; and</text>
        </level>
        <level label="3">
          <text>Adequate safeguards are present to protect the patient’s health and safety.</text>
        </level>
      </level>
    </level>
    <level label="4">
      <level label="i">
        <text>The Board, upon written request or its own motion, may conduct a public informational meeting on any waiver application.</text>
      </level>
      <level label="ii">
        <text>The Board shall maintain records of all waiver applications and the criteria and basis for its action on each application.</text>
      </level>
      <level label="iii">
        <text>The Board shall have the power to inspect or review any facility, location, person, or entity applying for, covered by, or acting under a waiver.</text>
      </level>
    </level>
    <level label="5">
      <level label="i">
        <text>Except as provided under subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, the Board shall accept or deny a waiver under paragraph (2) of this subsection within 60 calendar days of the receipt of the application for the waiver or it shall be deemed to have been accepted.</text>
      </level>
      <level label="ii">
        <text>If extraordinary circumstances exist, the Board shall accept or deny a waiver under paragraph (2) of this subsection within 90 calendar days of the receipt of the application for the waiver or it shall be deemed to have been accepted.</text>
      </level>
    </level>
    <level label="6">
      <text>Any changes in the procedures or personnel of a facility with a waiver granted under this subsection shall be reported to the Board within 15 business days after the change.</text>
    </level>
  </level>
  <level label="g">
    <text>While it is effective, a retired volunteer dental hygienist’s license or a volunteer dental hygienist’s license to practice dental hygiene issued under this title authorizes the licensee to practice dental hygiene:</text>
    <level label="1">
      <text>Only in a dental office, dental clinic, ambulatory care facility, or hospital;</text>
    </level>
    <level label="2">
      <text>Only for an entity providing medical care to the poor, elderly, or handicapped that is operated by:</text>
      <level label="i">
        <text>The State or a local government;</text>
      </level>
      <level label="ii">
        <text>A bona fide charitable organization; or</text>
      </level>
      <level label="iii">
        <text>Any other entity authorized under regulations adopted by the Board;</text>
      </level>
    </level>
    <level label="3">
      <text>If the dental hygienist signs a written statement agreeing to donate at least 100 hours of dental hygiene services without compensation in a facility that satisfies the requirements of items (1) and (2) of this subsection;</text>
    </level>
    <level label="4">
      <text>If the dental hygienist provides documentation as required by the Board which evidences that the licensee is covered by malpractice insurance; and</text>
    </level>
    <level label="5">
      <text>If the dental hygienist does not otherwise practice dental hygiene for profit in Maryland.</text>
    </level>
  </level>
  <level label="h">
    <level label="1">
      <text>While it is effective, a temporary volunteer dental hygienist’s license issued under this title authorizes the licensee to practice dental hygiene:</text>
      <level label="i">
        <text>Only in a temporary dental clinic providing medical care to the poor, elderly, or disabled that is operated by:</text>
        <level label="1">
          <text>A bona fide charitable organization;</text>
        </level>
        <level label="2">
          <text>The State or a local government; or</text>
        </level>
        <level label="3">
          <text>A local health department;</text>
        </level>
      </level>
      <level label="ii">
        <text>If the dental hygienist holds a general license to practice dental hygiene in another state that permits clinical practice and the dental hygienist is not subject to clinical restrictions;</text>
      </level>
      <level label="iii">
        <text>In addition to holding a general license to practice dental hygiene, if the dental hygienist:</text>
        <level label="1">
          <text>Provides documentation as required by the Board which evidences that the dental hygienist passed the North East Regional Board Clinical Examination; or</text>
        </level>
        <level label="2">
          <text>Submits to the Board a notarized affidavit or other evidence satisfactory to the Board indicating that for the 3 years preceding application, the dental hygienist has actively engaged in practicing dental hygiene for at least 150 hours on average per year;</text>
        </level>
      </level>
      <level label="iv">
        <text>If the dental hygienist has fulfilled any requirements of the Board related to knowledge of the laws and regulations governing the practice of dental hygiene in the State;</text>
      </level>
      <level label="v">
        <text>If the dental hygienist provides a notarized affidavit to the Board agreeing to donate dental hygiene services without compensation for a temporary dental clinic that satisfies the requirements of subsection (i) of this section;</text>
      </level>
      <level label="vi">
        <text>If the dental hygienist provides documentation as required by the Board evidencing that the dental hygienist is covered by malpractice insurance;</text>
      </level>
      <level label="vii">
        <text>If the dental hygienist does not otherwise practice dental hygiene for profit in the State; and</text>
      </level>
      <level label="viii">
        <text>If the dental hygienist provides verification of current cardiopulmonary resuscitation certification.</text>
      </level>
    </level>
    <level label="2">
      <text>A dental hygienist who holds a temporary volunteer dental hygienist’s license may only provide services authorized under the Maryland Dentistry Act and the regulations adopted by the Board.</text>
    </level>
    <level label="3">
      <text>A dental hygienist who holds a temporary volunteer dental hygienist’s license may not:</text>
      <level label="i">
        <text>Administer local anesthesia; or</text>
      </level>
      <level label="ii">
        <text>Administer, maintain, or monitor nitrous oxide oxygen.</text>
      </level>
    </level>
    <level label="4">
      <text>While it is effective, a temporary volunteer dental hygienist’s license issued under this title authorizes the licensee to practice dental hygiene under the general supervision of a dentist who:</text>
      <level label="i">
        <text>Is on the premises;</text>
      </level>
      <level label="ii">
        <text>Examines the patient at any time during the treatment; and</text>
      </level>
      <level label="iii">
        <text>Is available for personal consultation while the services are being performed.</text>
      </level>
    </level>
    <level label="5">
      <text>A dental hygienist may perform an assessment of dental needs and provide dental hygiene services prior to an examination by a supervising dentist.</text>
    </level>
    <level label="6">
      <text>This subsection may not be construed to:</text>
      <level label="i">
        <text>Require a preliminary dental examination or treatment by a dental hygienist; or</text>
      </level>
      <level label="ii">
        <text>Prohibit a supervising dentist from either examining a patient or providing treatment to a patient prior to treatment by a dental hygienist.</text>
      </level>
    </level>
    <level label="7">
      <text>The Board may deny a temporary volunteer license to practice dental hygiene on the grounds provided under § 4–315 of this subtitle.</text>
    </level>
    <level label="8">
      <text>A temporary volunteer dental hygienist’s license issued to a dental hygienist under this section shall be issued for the duration of the temporary dental clinic only and may not be renewed.</text>
    </level>
    <level label="9">
      <text>The Board may issue a temporary volunteer dental hygienist’s license to a dental hygienist who previously held a temporary volunteer dental hygienist’s license if the dental hygienist applies for a new license and satisfies the requirements of this subtitle.</text>
    </level>
    <level label="10">
      <text>The Board may not require continuing education as a condition for the issuance of a temporary volunteer dental hygienist’s license.</text>
    </level>
  </level>
  <level label="i">
    <level label="1">
      <text>While it is effective, a temporary dental clinic permit issued to a bona fide charitable organization under this title authorizes the permit holder to utilize holders of a temporary volunteer dentist’s license or a temporary volunteer dental hygienist’s license to provide dental services to the poor, elderly, or disabled at a temporary dental clinic that is operated by the bona fide charitable organization.</text>
    </level>
    <level label="2">
      <text>The Board shall issue a temporary dental clinic permit to a bona fide charitable organization that meets the requirements of this subsection.</text>
    </level>
    <level label="3">
      <text>A temporary dental clinic permit issued to a bona fide charitable organization under this title shall be issued for the duration of the dental clinic only and may not be renewed.</text>
    </level>
    <level label="4">
      <text>The Board may issue a temporary dental clinic permit to a bona fide charitable organization that previously held a temporary dental clinic permit if the bona fide charitable organization applies for a new permit and satisfies the requirements of this subtitle.</text>
    </level>
    <level label="5">
      <text>A bona fide charitable organization that conducts a temporary dental clinic under this title may not be construed to be practicing dentistry as defined in § 4–101 of this title.</text>
    </level>
    <level label="6">
      <level label="i">
        <text>The State, a local government, or a local health department that provides dental services to the poor, elderly, or disabled:</text>
        <level label="1">
          <text>May not be required by the Board to seek authorization under this title to provide the services; and</text>
        </level>
        <level label="2">
          <text>Shall provide written notice to the Board of its intention to provide dental services to the poor, elderly, or disabled at least 60 days prior to the date the services are to be provided.</text>
        </level>
      </level>
      <level label="ii">
        <text>A holder of an out–of–state license to practice dentistry or dental hygiene who would like to provide dental services sponsored by the State, a local government, or a local health department shall obtain a temporary volunteer dentist’s license or temporary volunteer dental hygienist’s license as provided in this title before providing the dental services.</text>
      </level>
    </level>
    <level label="7">
      <text>A holder of a temporary dental clinic permit shall have:</text>
      <level label="i">
        <text>A medical emergency plan;</text>
      </level>
      <level label="ii">
        <text>Adequate equipment, including portable equipment where appropriate, and appropriate armamentarium available for the appropriate delivery of dental services; and</text>
      </level>
      <level label="iii">
        <text>Adequate safeguards to protect the health and safety of patients.</text>
      </level>
    </level>
    <level label="8">
      <text>The Board may:</text>
      <level label="i">
        <text>Enter and inspect a temporary dental clinic in order to carry out a duty under this title; and</text>
      </level>
      <level label="ii">
        <text>Conduct an investigation of a temporary dental clinic or a holder of a temporary volunteer dentist’s license or a temporary volunteer dental hygienist’s license providing dental services at the temporary dental clinic.</text>
      </level>
    </level>
  </level>
  <level label="j">
    <text>While it is effective, a teacher’s license to practice dental hygiene issued under this title authorizes the licensee to:</text>
    <level label="1">
      <text>Teach dental hygiene only at the institution named on the license; and</text>
    </level>
    <level label="2">
      <text>Practice dental hygiene under the general supervision of a licensed dentist with the institution named on the license.</text>
    </level>
  </level>
  <level label="k">
    <level label="1">
      <level label="i">
        <text>In this subsection the following words have the meanings indicated.</text>
      </level>
      <level label="ii">
        <text>“Contractual employee” means a dental hygienist who has an annual contract to practice dental hygiene an average of at least 8 hours per week in a facility specified under paragraph (3)(i) of this subsection.</text>
      </level>
      <level label="iii">
        <text>“Facility” includes a program operated within a facility that is specified under paragraph (3)(i) of this subsection.</text>
      </level>
      <level label="iv">
        <text>“Federally qualified health center” has the meaning stated in 42 U.S.C. § 254b(a).</text>
      </level>
      <level label="v">
        <text>“Federally qualified health center look–alike” has the meaning stated in 42 U.S.C. § 1396d(l)(2)(B).</text>
      </level>
      <level label="vi">
        <text>“General supervision” means supervision of a dental hygienist by a dentist, where the dentist may or may not be present when the dental hygienist performs the dental hygiene procedures.</text>
      </level>
    </level>
    <level label="2">
      <level label="i">
        <text>While effective, a general license to practice dental hygiene issued under this title authorizes the licensee to practice dental hygiene and apply sealants or fluoride agents such as professional topical fluoride treatments, mouth rinse, or varnish:</text>
        <level label="1">
          <text>Under general supervision in accordance with this subsection; and</text>
        </level>
        <level label="2">
          <text>In a facility specified under paragraph (3)(i) of this subsection that complies with the requirements of this subsection.</text>
        </level>
      </level>
      <level label="ii">
        <text>This subsection may not be construed to:</text>
        <level label="1">
          <text>Authorize a dental hygienist to practice dental hygiene independent of a supervising dentist;</text>
        </level>
        <level label="2">
          <text>Prohibit a dentist from being available for personal consultation or on the premises where a dental hygienist is practicing; or</text>
        </level>
        <level label="3">
          <text>Require a waiver under subsection (f) of this section.</text>
        </level>
      </level>
    </level>
    <level label="3">
      <level label="i">
        <text>While it is effective, a general license to practice dental hygiene issued under this title authorizes the licensee to practice dental hygiene under general supervision in:</text>
        <level label="1">
          <text>A dental facility owned and operated by the federal, the State, or a local government;</text>
        </level>
        <level label="2">
          <text>A public health department or public school of the State or a county;</text>
        </level>
        <level label="3">
          <text>A facility in which a program licensed by the Department is operating;</text>
        </level>
        <level label="4">
          <text>A facility owned and operated by the Department of Juvenile Services;</text>
        </level>
        <level label="5">
          <text>A facility owned and operated by the State or a local government that provides medical care to the poor, elderly, or handicapped;</text>
        </level>
        <level label="6">
          <text>A facility in which a federally qualified health center or a federally qualified health center look–alike is located; or</text>
        </level>
        <level label="7">
          <text>A facility in which a State licensed Head Start Program or Early Head Start Program operates.</text>
        </level>
      </level>
      <level label="ii">
        <text>Before a facility may allow a dental hygienist authorized to practice dental hygiene under general supervision in accordance with this subsection to practice in the facility, the facility shall report to the Board:</text>
        <level label="1">
          <text>That the facility is operating under general supervision; and</text>
        </level>
        <level label="2">
          <text>The identity of each supervising dentist and each dental hygienist.</text>
        </level>
      </level>
    </level>
    <level label="4">
      <text>A facility in which a dental hygienist is authorized to practice under the general supervision of a licensed dentist in accordance with this subsection shall ensure that:</text>
      <level label="i">
        <text>The supervising dentist for the facility:</text>
        <level label="1">
          <text>Holds an active general license to practice dentistry in the State;</text>
        </level>
        <level label="2">
          <text>Holds a current certificate evidencing health provider level C proficiency, or its equivalent, in cardiopulmonary resuscitation; and</text>
        </level>
        <level label="3">
          <text>Has at least 2 years of active clinical practice in direct patient care;</text>
        </level>
      </level>
      <level label="ii">
        <text>Each dental hygienist authorized to practice under the general supervision of a licensed dentist in accordance with this subsection:</text>
        <level label="1">
          <text>Holds an active general license to practice dental hygiene in the State;</text>
        </level>
        <level label="2">
          <text>Holds a current certificate evidencing health provider level C proficiency, or its equivalent, in cardiopulmonary resuscitation;</text>
        </level>
        <level label="3">
          <text>Has at least 2 years of active clinical practice in direct patient care; and</text>
        </level>
        <level label="4">
          <text>Is a permanent or contractual employee of the federal government, a state or local government, or a federally qualified health center;</text>
        </level>
      </level>
      <level label="iii">
        <text>The facility has:</text>
        <level label="1">
          <text>A medical emergency plan;</text>
        </level>
        <level label="2">
          <text>Adequate equipment, including portable equipment where appropriate and appropriate armamentarium, available for the appropriate delivery of dental hygiene services; and</text>
        </level>
        <level label="3">
          <text>Adequate safeguards to protect the patient’s health and safety;</text>
        </level>
      </level>
      <level label="iv">
        <text>A recall patient who has been examined by a dental hygienist practicing under the general supervision of a licensed dentist will be scheduled for an oral examination every 6 months, or as otherwise recommended by the supervising dentist;</text>
      </level>
      <level label="v">
        <text>A dental hygienist practicing under the general supervision of a licensed dentist ascertains before treating a recall patient that there has been no change in the patient’s medical history;</text>
      </level>
      <level label="vi">
        <text>A dental hygienist consults with the supervising dentist or the patient’s dentist and the treating physician, registered nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, or licensed certified midwife before proceeding with treatment if there is a change in the patient’s medical condition;</text>
      </level>
      <level label="vii">
        <text>Adequate facilities and equipment are available for the delivery of dental hygiene services other than fluoride rinse programs; and</text>
      </level>
      <level label="viii">
        <text>The facility reports to the Board any changes in the status of the facility’s general supervision, any supervising dentist, or any dental hygienist within 30 days after the change.</text>
      </level>
    </level>
  </level>
  <level label="l">
    <level label="1">
      <text>In this subsection, “private dental office” means a dental office owned and operated by:</text>
      <level label="i">
        <text>A licensed dentist; or</text>
      </level>
      <level label="ii">
        <text>A professional corporation, partnership, limited liability company, or limited liability partnership owned and controlled by a licensed dentist.</text>
      </level>
    </level>
    <level label="2">
      <text>While it is effective, a general license to practice dental hygiene issued under this title authorizes the licensee to practice dental hygiene under the general supervision of a licensed dentist in a private dental office.</text>
    </level>
    <level label="3">
      <text>A private dental office in which a dental hygienist is authorized to practice under the general supervision of a licensed dentist shall ensure that:</text>
      <level label="i">
        <text>The supervising dentist holds an active license to practice dentistry in this State;</text>
      </level>
      <level label="ii">
        <text>The dental hygienist holds an active license to practice dental hygiene in this State;</text>
      </level>
      <level label="iii">
        <text>The dental hygienist has at least 1,500 hours of dental hygiene clinical practice in direct patient care; and</text>
      </level>
      <level label="iv">
        <text>There is a written agreement between the supervising dentist and the dental hygienist practicing under general supervision that clearly sets forth the terms and conditions under which the dental hygienist may practice, including a statement that the dental hygienist may provide dental hygiene services without the supervising dentist on the premises.</text>
      </level>
    </level>
    <level label="4">
      <text>A dental hygienist may perform authorized dental hygiene services without the supervising dentist on the premises only if:</text>
      <level label="i">
        <text>After the supervising dentist examines and evaluates a patient, the prescribed and authorized treatment to be provided by the dental hygienist is written in the patient’s records;</text>
      </level>
      <level label="ii">
        <level label="1">
          <text>Treatments authorized by a supervising dentist to be provided by the dental hygienist are rendered no later than 7 months from the date the patient was examined and evaluated by the supervising dentist; and</text>
        </level>
        <level label="2">
          <text>Upon expiration of a prescription or prescribed treatment, the supervising dentist examines and reevaluates the patient before writing a new prescription and authorization for treatment;</text>
        </level>
      </level>
      <level label="iii">
        <text>Prior to an appointment, the patient or the custodial parent or legal guardian of a minor or incompetent adult shall:</text>
        <level label="1">
          <text>Be informed that a dental hygienist will be providing services previously prescribed by a dentist who will not be on the premises during the appointment; and</text>
        </level>
        <level label="2">
          <text>Consent to receiving the dental hygiene services;</text>
        </level>
      </level>
      <level label="iv">
        <text>Written emergency procedures are in place and the dental hygienist is trained to implement the emergency procedures;</text>
      </level>
      <level label="v">
        <text>A designated licensed dentist is available for consultation with the dental hygienist; and</text>
      </level>
      <level label="vi">
        <text>The number of unsupervised clinical hours worked by a supervised dental hygienist in any given 3–month period is less than 60 percent of the dental hygienist’s total hours worked during that 3–month period.</text>
      </level>
    </level>
    <level label="5">
      <text>A supervising dentist may not employ more than two dental hygienists to work under the dentist’s general supervision at any given time.</text>
    </level>
  </level>
  <level label="m">
    <level label="1">
      <level label="i">
        <text>In this subsection the following words have the meanings indicated.</text>
      </level>
      <level label="ii">
        <text>“Assisted living program” has the meaning stated in § 19–1801 of the Health – General Article.</text>
      </level>
      <level label="iii">
        <text>“Clinical office” means an office of a licensed physician, registered nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, or licensed certified midwife who provides prenatal, postpartum, or primary care and in which the supervising dentist and dental hygienist communicate with the licensed physician, certified registered nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, or licensed certified midwife in providing dental hygiene services to a patient.</text>
      </level>
      <level label="iv">
        <text>“Facility” means:</text>
        <level label="1">
          <text>A nursing home;</text>
        </level>
        <level label="2">
          <text>An assisted living program;</text>
        </level>
        <level label="3">
          <text>Clinical offices; or</text>
        </level>
        <level label="4">
          <text>A group home or adult day care center.</text>
        </level>
      </level>
      <level label="v">
        <text>“General supervision” means supervision of a dental hygienist by a dentist, where the dentist may or may not be present when the dental hygienist performs the dental hygiene procedures.</text>
      </level>
      <level label="vi">
        <text>“Group home or adult day care center” means a group home or adult day care center where the patient’s medical records are made available to the dentist and the dental hygienist and that obtains the consent of the patient or the patient’s guardian for dental hygiene services to be provided under this subsection.</text>
      </level>
      <level label="vii">
        <text>“Nursing home” has the meaning stated in § 19–1401 of the Health – General Article.</text>
      </level>
    </level>
    <level label="2">
      <level label="i">
        <text>While it is effective, a general license to practice dental hygiene issued under this title authorizes the licensee to practice dental hygiene under the general supervision of a licensed dentist in a facility in accordance with this subsection.</text>
      </level>
      <level label="ii">
        <text>This subsection may not be construed to:</text>
        <level label="1">
          <text>Authorize a dental hygienist to practice dental hygiene independent of a supervising dentist;</text>
        </level>
        <level label="2">
          <text>Prohibit a dentist from being available for personal consultation or on the premises where a dental hygienist is practicing;</text>
        </level>
        <level label="3">
          <text>Prohibit a dental hygienist, without the supervision of a dentist, from performing a preliminary dental examination with subsequent referral to a dentist; or</text>
        </level>
        <level label="4">
          <text>Require a waiver under subsection (f) of this section.</text>
        </level>
      </level>
    </level>
    <level label="3">
      <text>Before a dental hygienist is authorized to practice dental hygiene under general supervision in a facility in accordance with this subsection, the dental hygienist shall:</text>
      <level label="i">
        <text>Hold an active license to practice dental hygiene in the State;</text>
      </level>
      <level label="ii">
        <text>Hold a current certificate evidencing health provider level C proficiency, or its equivalent, in cardiopulmonary resuscitation;</text>
      </level>
      <level label="iii">
        <text>Have at least 3,000 hours of active clinical practice in direct patient care; and</text>
      </level>
      <level label="iv">
        <text>Ensure that the facility where the dental hygienist will practice under general supervision has:</text>
        <level label="1">
          <text>A written medical emergency plan in place;</text>
        </level>
        <level label="2">
          <text>Adequate equipment, including portable equipment and appropriate armamentarium, available for the appropriate delivery of dental hygiene services, unless the dental hygienist provides the equipment described; and</text>
        </level>
        <level label="3">
          <text>Adequate safeguards to protect the patient’s health and safety.</text>
        </level>
      </level>
    </level>
    <level label="4">
      <text>Before a dental hygienist is authorized to practice dental hygiene under general supervision in a facility in accordance with this subsection, the supervising dentist shall:</text>
      <level label="i">
        <text>Hold an active general license to practice dentistry in the State;</text>
      </level>
      <level label="ii">
        <text>Hold a current certificate evidencing health provider level C proficiency, or its equivalent, in cardiopulmonary resuscitation;</text>
      </level>
      <level label="iii">
        <text>Have at least 3,000 hours of active clinical practice in direct patient care; and</text>
      </level>
      <level label="iv">
        <text>Have a written agreement between the supervising dentist and the dental hygienist that:</text>
        <level label="1">
          <text>Clearly sets forth the terms and conditions under which the dental hygienist may practice, including a statement that the dental hygienist may provide dental hygiene services without the supervising dentist on the premises unless this title requires that a licensed dentist be on the premises in order for the service to be performed by the dental hygienist;</text>
        </level>
        <level label="2">
          <text>Indicates the population to be served;</text>
        </level>
        <level label="3">
          <text>States the method by which the services are to be provided and the procedures to be used by the supervising dentist to oversee and direct the dental hygienist; and</text>
        </level>
        <level label="4">
          <text>States the names and license numbers of the dentist and dental hygienist performing services under the written agreement.</text>
        </level>
      </level>
    </level>
    <level label="5">
      <text>A dental hygienist practicing under the general supervision of a licensed dentist in a facility and performing an authorized dental hygiene service for a patient’s initial appointment shall:</text>
      <level label="i">
        <text>Ensure that, while the dental hygienist is performing the service, the supervising dentist is available for consultation with the dental hygienist:</text>
        <level label="1">
          <text>In person;</text>
        </level>
        <level label="2">
          <text>By telephone; or</text>
        </level>
        <level label="3">
          <text>Electronically;</text>
        </level>
      </level>
      <level label="ii">
        <text>Consult with the supervising dentist and the treating physician, registered nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, or licensed certified midwife before proceeding with treatment if there is a change in or concerns about a patient’s medical condition;</text>
      </level>
      <level label="iii">
        <text>Assess the appropriate recall interval based on the needs of the patient, or as otherwise recommended by the supervising dentist;</text>
      </level>
      <level label="iv">
        <text>Limit dental hygiene tasks and procedures provided during the initial appointment to:</text>
        <level label="1">
          <text>Toothbrush prophylaxis;</text>
        </level>
        <level label="2">
          <text>Application of fluoride;</text>
        </level>
        <level label="3">
          <text>Dental hygiene instruction;</text>
        </level>
        <level label="4">
          <text>Full mouth debridement;</text>
        </level>
        <level label="5">
          <text>Assessing the patient’s apparent need for further evaluation by a dentist in order to diagnose the presence of dental disease; and</text>
        </level>
        <level label="6">
          <text>Other duties as may be delegated, verbally or in writing, by the supervising dentist; and</text>
        </level>
      </level>
      <level label="v">
        <text>Submit findings of the initial assessment to the supervising dentist for a collaborative determination of future treatment based on the patient’s overall health status.</text>
      </level>
    </level>
    <level label="6">
      <text>A dental hygienist may perform subsequent authorized dental hygiene services following the initial appointment without the supervising dentist on the premises only if:</text>
      <level label="i">
        <text>The supervising dentist:</text>
        <level label="1">
          <text>Examines the patient and the patient’s charts and other dental records;</text>
        </level>
        <level label="2">
          <text>Authorizes in the patient’s record the scope of a prescription of specific treatment to be provided by the dental hygienist; and</text>
        </level>
        <level label="3">
          <text>Examines the patient at least once every 12 months, or more frequently as determined by the dentist;</text>
        </level>
      </level>
      <level label="ii">
        <text>An authorized treatment is provided by the dental hygienist as soon as possible, but no later than 7 months from the date the patient and the patient’s charts and other dental records were reviewed by the supervising dentist; and</text>
      </level>
      <level label="iii">
        <text>On completion of the treatment prescribed following the initial appointment, the supervising dentist determines, in consultation with the dental hygienist, future protocols for the treatment of the patient.</text>
      </level>
    </level>
    <level label="7">
      <text>While performing dental hygiene services for a patient under paragraph (6)(iii) of this subsection, a dental hygienist shall:</text>
      <level label="i">
        <text>Assess with the supervising dentist the appropriate recall interval based on the needs of the patient;</text>
      </level>
      <level label="ii">
        <text>Limit services to the preventive services authorized under the current scope of practice of a licensed dental hygienist except for those services for which the presence of a licensed dentist on the premises is required under this title; and</text>
      </level>
      <level label="iii">
        <text>Report patient clinical findings to the supervising dentist and, with the supervising dentist, determine whether the patient should be referred for a follow–up examination or care by the supervising dentist.</text>
      </level>
    </level>
  </level>
</section>
