Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S2878

Introduced
3/4/26  

Caption

Permits reimbursement for dental hygienists from "other insurance" or a third-party payor such as Medicare.

Impact

The approval of S2878 would have a noteworthy impact on state dental laws by allowing public health dental hygienists to receive direct reimbursement from Medicaid and other third-party payors, such as Medicare. This change is significant as it enhances financial accessibility for dental hygiene services provided in public health settings, thereby potentially increasing oral health access for underserved populations. It also indicates a shift towards recognizing the critical role of dental hygienists in public health efforts, especially in delivering preventive care and education.

Summary

S2878 is a legislative act introduced in the Rhode Island General Assembly aimed at amending existing laws related to dental hygienists. The bill seeks to empower public health dental hygienists to perform dental-hygiene procedures in various public health settings without the necessity of direct supervision by a dentist. It establishes the scope of practice for these hygienists in settings including schools, nursing homes, and mobile health programs, which represents a significant expansion of their operational capabilities in the state. Additionally, the bill mandates that these hygienists must have written collaborative agreements with local or state agencies to ensure compliance and safety standards.

Contention

While the bill represents progress in enhancing public healthcare accessibility, there may be points of contention regarding the extent of autonomy granted to dental hygienists under this new legislation. Opponents may argue that such a shift could impact patient safety if proper oversight and consultation with dentists are not adequately maintained. Additionally, concerns might arise from the existing dental community regarding the implications of expanding the scope of practice for hygienists, emphasizing the need for a balance between operational efficiency and maintaining high standards of care.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S0609

Permits reimbursement for dental hygienist's from "other insurance" or a third-party payor such as Medicare.

RI H5736

Permits reimbursement for dental hygienist's from "other insurance" or a third-party payor such as Medicare.

RI H6240

Allows for the expansion of limited registrations of dentists and dental hygienists.

RI S0114

Prohibits any health insurer, pharmacy benefit manager, manufacturer or other third-party payor from discriminating against any 340B entity participating in a drug discount program.

RI H5634

Prohibits any health insurer, pharmacy benefit manager, manufacturer or other third-party payor from discriminating against any 340B entity participating in a drug discount program.

RI S0793

Increases individual, group, and Medicaid insurance rates of reimbursement for ambulance and wheelchair van services to be equal to reimbursement rates provided by Medicare for the same medical services.

RI H5772

Increases individual, group, and Medicaid insurance rates of reimbursement for ambulance and wheelchair van services to be equal to reimbursement rates provided by Medicare for the same medical services.

RI S0195

Provides for the operation and duties of natural organic reduction for the contained, accelerated conversion of human remains to soil. A disposition facility would be used for either cremation or natural organic reduction.

RI H5110

Provides for the operation and duties of natural organic reduction for the contained, accelerated conversion of human remains to soil. Disposition facilities would be used for either cremation or natural organic reduction.

RI S0695

Recognizes the program run by the Rhode Island Medical Society or comparable program for physicians, physician assistants, dentists, and podiatrists, to address burnout, substance abuse, and mental and physical health issues.

Similar Bills

MS SB2668

Dental hygienists; authorize to work under general supervision of dentists in nursing homes and correctional facilities.

ME LD1361

An Act to Require Insurance Coverage for Covered Dental Services Provided by Licensed Dental Hygienists

AZ HB2137

Medical records; destruction; classification

MS HB1062

Dental hygienists; authorize to provide services to patients under the general supervision of dentists under certain conditions.

MS HB431

Dental hygienists; those employed by SDH or making educational demonstrations may practice under general supervision.

SC H4169

Dental hygienists

MS SB2550

Dental hygienists; revise certain requirements for and provisions regarding practice under general supervision.

OK HB3934

Professions and occupations; practice of dentistry; definitions; committees; practice; licensing; effective date; emergency.