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Committee advances bill to set state framework for teledentistry
Summary
A subcommittee advanced S.453 to define teledentistry, set patient‑protection and consent rules, prohibit treatment based solely on online questionnaires, and require a bona fide provider–patient relationship; supporters said it codifies practices already in use and provides safeguards against bad actors.
The subcommittee voted to advance Senate Bill 453 after Representative Sessions outlined a bill to create a South Carolina framework for teledentistry.
Sessions said the measure defines teledentistry terms, sets consent and patient‑protection requirements, prohibits treatment on the basis of an online questionnaire alone and generally requires a bona fide provider–patient relationship. He said the practice is already occurring — for example, orthodontic scan uploads — and the bill aims to establish consistent definitions and safeguards.
Members asked how teledentistry works in practice and whether regulation would raise costs or stifle innovation. Sessions and several supporters said the bill is intended to protect patients and provide consistent standards so responsible providers can operate while deterring bad actors.
The committee voted to advance the bill; the sponsor said responsible implementation would include clear definitions and safeguards for patient care.
