DE HB28

Expands the definition of "practice of dental hygiene" to include dental hygiene assessments, clinical evaluations, risk assessments, and services provided through telemedicine.

Allows dental hygienists to practice independently in hospitals, nursing facilities, schools, charitable institutions, and prisons without requiring supervision by a licensed dentist.

Requires facility approval and patient or legal guardian consent before dental hygiene services are provided in these settings.

Mandates that dental hygienists refer patients to a licensed dentist annually and maintain documentation of referrals in patient records.

Requires dental hygienists to maintain professional liability insurance when providing services under the expanded practice authority.