Harrisburg – The Senate Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee today approved legislation authored by Senator Martin (R-13) that would give educational credits to dentists who volunteer at free clinics and charity events.
“By participating at these events, dental professionals are not only being great stewards of their communities, but they are also exposing themselves to cases of progressive dental emergencies that they may not see as often from those who routinely receive dental care,” Martin said. “This type of volunteerism should be encouraged and its value should be properly recognized.”
Senate Bill 1173 would allow professionals to claim up to three hours served at a volunteer clinic or a charitable event as continuing education credits. These opportunities provide critical access to underserved populations who often fall through the cracks in our existing health care system, Martin said.
“Poor oral health has been linked to heart disease, cancer, diabetes and simply one’s overall health and wellbeing,” Martin said. “This bill would improve health outcomes for those currently underserved, without increasing costs on taxpayers.”
The bill now moves to the full Senate for consideration.
CONACT: Terry Trego, 717-787-6535