Many of you may wonder: what ever happened with the Public Health Dental Hygienist (PHDH) certification.   As some of you know, the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation delayed the rules for the training criteria for the PHDH.   In February 2019, the Illinois State Dental Society (ISDS) submitted a bill – HB2676.   This bill contained the requirements for the training and education for public health dental hygienists.  The Illinois Dental Hygienists’ Association opposed some of the requirements ISDS proposed.  Over the last few weeks, our two associations collaborated and compromised, which led to the current language in HB2676. 

Absolutely, there are aspects of the bill with which both ISDS and IDHA were not in agreement. Therefore, our position of the bill is neutral, because our mission at IDHA, first and foremost, is to “improve the public’s total health.”  By not opposing this bill, we have an opportunity to provide great care to so many underserved individuals in Illinois.

If you’re interested in following the progress of bill – HB2676 – here is a link.  Remember to click on “Full Text” (upper left corner) as the synopsis is not as detailed.   This bill is on the second reading in the House.  There are many steps before it is passed.  We’ll keep you updated as the process proceeds.

http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocTypeID=HB&DocNum=2676&GAID=15&SessionID=108&LegID=118869

For additional information please don’t hesitate to contact IDHA at 800-550-4342 or mail@idha.net.