MA H2410

Creates a new "dental therapist" license requiring a master's degree from an accredited program, passage of a clinical examination, and 2 years or 2,500 hours of direct supervision before practicing under general supervision with a supervising dentist through a collaborative management agreement

Requires at least 50% of a dental therapist's patient panel to consist of MassHealth members or underserved individuals, including those in dental health professional shortage areas, long-term care facilities, or with incomes at or below 305% of the federal poverty level

Mandates public schools notify parents of the importance of oral health screenings, with the Department of Public Health developing a standard notice containing information on primary teeth, oral health's connection to learning, and resources for affordable dental care

Authorizes dental therapists to perform oral evaluations, formulate treatment plans, and dispense non-narcotic analgesics, anti-inflammatories, and antibiotics under their collaborative management agreement, while prohibiting independent practice or narcotic prescribing

Requires a 5-year evaluation of dental therapists' impact on patient safety, cost-effectiveness, and access to care, with annual reporting by the Center for Health Information and Analysis on therapist numbers, patients served, and procedures performed