On Oct. 1, 2016, the Dentistry Examining Board’s rules regarding mobile dentistry in Wisconsin will go into effect. Following is some general information regarding the new rules. For complete information, visit http://dsps.wi.gov/Documents/Board%20Services/Rulemaking/DE_10_%20AO.pdf.
“Mobile dentistry” is defined as a program delivering dental or dental hygiene care in one of the following ways:
- Using portable equipment or supplies that are transported to a location that is not an intact dental or hospital facility
- In a self-contained, intact facility that can be moved
It does not meet the definition, if it meets one of the following requirements:
- Care is provided within a 30-mile radius of a main or satellite facility AND care is billed by that facility AND, necessary follow-up care is provided
- Care is provided for a new or established patient of record of a main or satellite facility AND no more than two patients are seen per day
- Department of Health dental screenings as part of Centers for Disease Control programs to collect oral health information
Regulations for mobile dentistry
- A person must register each program using the form provided by the Department of Safety and Professional Services (hyperlink to Mobile Dentistry Program Registrant Page)
- Each program must provide and keep updated, a list of dentists and dental hygienists (including license numbers) employed by or volunteering for the program.
- Initial registration and biennial renewal fees
Patient record keeping requirements:
- Provide each patient with program name and contact information
- Written description of services provided, along with any findings and recommendations and provider’s information
- Maintain dental records
- Provide access to those dental records
Provisions necessary for follow-up care:
- Written protocol for follow-up care in a permanently established dental facility within 60 miles of where the services were provided
- Written agreement with at least one provider for emergency treatment
