MDS Highlights Legislative Efforts to Address Dental Workforce Shortages
In the Fall 2024 issue of the Journal of the Massachusetts Dental Society (JMDS), Dr. Ronald Perry, Head of the International Dentist Training Program at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, collaborated with co-authors Kizzy Lue Quee, M.Ed., Dr. Carolina Perdomo, DDS, and Grettel Marie Pantaleon, IS25 student and dentist from the Dominican Republic, to shed light on a groundbreaking legislative initiative aimed at addressing the dental workforce shortage in Massachusetts.
The article, “Why Internationally Trained Dentists Should be Allowed to Apply for a Hygiene License in Massachusetts,” highlights Bill H4842, “An Act Relative to Dental Hygienists’ Reciprocal Licensure,” which proposes allowing qualified foreign-trained dentists to become licensed dental hygienists in Massachusetts. This effort seeks to alleviate the state’s shortage of dental auxiliaries while providing internationally trained professionals with opportunities to contribute meaningfully to the healthcare system.
This initiative has garnered widespread support, including endorsements from the Massachusetts Dental Hygienists Association, and has been championed by Senator John Cronin and Representative Tackey Chan, who played pivotal roles in drafting and advancing the legislation. MDS President Abe Abdul and the MDS Government Affairs team, led by Dr. Fran Clairmont, D.M.D., have also been instrumental in advocating for this bill.
“This is certainly a milestone,” said Dr. Perry. “But there are still many hurdles ahead. We must continue to work together to push this bill forward and ensure that our patients and profession benefit from the incredible talent of internationally trained dentists.”
Bill H4842 has already passed the Massachusetts House of Representatives and is currently under review by the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. With continued advocacy, the legislation has the potential to make a significant impact on the dental workforce and patient care across the state.
The Massachusetts Dental Society encourages its members to engage in advocacy efforts by contacting their local representatives to support the bill’s passage.
For more information about this initiative and how you can get involved, visit the JMDS Fall 2024 issue or contact the MDS Government Affairs team.