For low-income, rural, and other at-risk populations and in coordination with local public health jurisdictions and local oral health coalitions, a dental hygienist licensed in this state may assess for and apply sealants and apply fluoride varnishes, and may remove deposits and stains from the surfaces of teeth in community-based sealant programs carried out in schools:

     (1) Without attending the department's school sealant endorsement program if the dental hygienist was licensed as of April 19, 2001; or

     (2) If the dental hygienist is school sealant endorsed under RCW 43.70.650.

     A hygienist providing services under this section must collect data on patients treated, including age, treatment rendered, methods of reimbursement for treatment, evidence of coordination with local public health jurisdictions and local oral health coalitions, and patient referrals to dentists. This data must be submitted to the department of health at the end of each annual quarter, during the period of time between October 1, 2007, and October 1, 2013.

[2009 c 321 § 2; 2007 c 270 § 2; 2001 c 93 § 3.]

NOTES:

     Report -- Effective date -- 2009 c 321: See notes following RCW 18.29.056.

     Report -- 2007 c 270: See note following RCW 18.29.056.

     Findings -- Intent -- Effective date -- 2001 c 93: See notes following RCW 43.70.650.