California Baptist University seeks approval for new dental hygiene program in Riverside

In a recent meeting of the Dental Hygiene Board of California, significant discussions centered around the approval of new educational programs aimed at addressing the growing need for dental hygienists in underserved areas. The board considered a proposal from California Baptist University (CBU) to establish a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene program in Riverside, California. This initiative is particularly relevant as it seeks to enhance access to preventive and affordable dental care in the Inland Empire region, which includes Riverside, Ontario, and San Bernardino.

Dr. Adena Petty introduced the agenda item, highlighting CBU's commitment to meeting educational needs and increasing healthcare access. The university's Dean of the College of Health Science, Dr. David Pearson, emphasized the institution's history and its expansion into comprehensive health programs, noting the pressing demand for dental hygienists in the area. Dr. Kelly Donovan, the proposed program director, reinforced the importance of the program in training qualified dental hygienists to serve local communities.

The board unanimously voted to provisionally approve the program, contingent upon a two-year probationary period to monitor its progress. This decision reflects a growing recognition of the need for more dental hygiene professionals in California, where there is currently a shortage of qualified practitioners.

In addition to the CBU proposal, the board also discussed a request from Cabrillo College to modify its dental hygiene program's enrollment pattern due to fiscal constraints. The college sought to admit a cohort of students every other year instead of annually, citing budget challenges and declining enrollment. The board approved this request, acknowledging the financial realities faced by educational institutions.

Another significant topic was the scheduling of Concord Career College's dental hygiene programs, which have faced scrutiny for not meeting the required 10-week instructional period. The board expressed concerns about the compressed schedule and its potential impact on student learning and well-being. After extensive discussions, the board voted to disapprove the current schedule, emphasizing the importance of adhering to state regulations that ensure adequate instructional time.

Overall, the meeting underscored the board's commitment to improving dental hygiene education in California, addressing both the immediate needs of the community and the long-term sustainability of educational programs. As the board continues to navigate these challenges, it remains focused on ensuring that future dental hygienists are well-trained and equipped to meet the demands of the healthcare system.