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Connecticut House approves bill letting dental hygienists treat homebound patients
Summary
The House passed HB 5140 to let licensed dental hygienists provide preventive care in private residences for homebound patients, after debate about patient safety, supervision and regulatory oversight. Supporters said it expands access; some members pressed for strong public‑health rules.
Representative Garibay, chairwoman of the Aging Committee, led passage of HB 5140, which expands existing authority for dental hygienists to offer services in schools and senior centers so they may also serve homebound patients in private residences. “This bill expands that practice to private residences so dental hygienists can serve homebound patients that are currently underserved,” Representative Garibay said during debate.
Supporters said the measure addresses a gap in access to basic oral care for people with mobility and transportation barriers. Ranking members and other lawmakers asked detailed questions about safeguards: what training and equipment would be required for in‑home care, how x‑rays and anesthesia would be handled, and how hygienists would communicate with supervising dentists. Representative Eckard and others emphasized continuity of care and said the bill must ensure hygienists remain within their scope and refer patients when further treatment is needed.
The bill as amended requires the Department of Public Health to adopt implementing regulations covering infection control, sterilization, and other safeguards for in‑home procedures; proponents said those regulatory standards mirror existing rules that govern mobile and community‑based dental services. Lawmakers clarified the measure does not expand hygienists’ clinical scope to surgical procedures. Supporters said the change is intended mainly to help seniors, veterans and others who otherwise forgo preventive dental care.
The House adopted an amendment and then passed the bill by roll call. The legislation will move to the Senate for further consideration.
