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I recently recorded an episode of The DrBicuspid.com Podcast with Kimber Cobb, the executive director of the American Association of Dental Boards (AADB), regarding the progress of the Interstate Dental and Dental Hygiene Licensure Compact and its implications for dental hygienists and the dental profession overall.
That podcast generated plenty of discussion and questions, so I asked Cobb to join me again on another podcast for an update ... and there was plenty to discuss.
The map highlights the progress of The Interstate Dental and Dental Hygiene Licensure Compact (IDDHLC).AADBCompact.org
Louisiana has officially joined the compact, becoming the first state to do so. With that in mind, Dr. Arthur Hickham, executive director of the Louisiana State Board of Dentistry, joins Cobb and me to discuss the significance of Louisiana's involvement in the compact, the implications for dental professionals, and the ongoing efforts to ensure quality care and patient safety. The conversation also highlights the importance of legislative support and grassroots advocacy in advancing dental regulations and licensure processes.
You can learn more about the compact here.
Podcast takeaways
- Louisiana is the first state to officially join the compact.
- The compact aims to expedite licensure for dental professionals.
- Maintaining hand skills exams is crucial for quality care.
- Legislative support is essential for the compact's success.
- Grassroots efforts from dental professionals are vital.
- The compact will not solve access to care issues alone.
- Quality dentistry remains a top priority amid staffing shortages.
- The AADB Compact website provides valuable resources.
- Ongoing education is necessary for understanding the compact.
- Future legislative sessions will be critical for expansion.
