California bill to include "additional providers" for basic oral health care still active.

California SB 694 is still in Active Status. After being amended in Committee, the bill has passed in the Senate and has been sent to the Assembly. This bill provides for the inclusion of "additional providers" who would provide basic preventive and restorative oral health care to underserved children. This action would effectively create midlevel dental providers. The Bill is expected to be heard before the end of the legislative session on August 31, 2012.

by Joanne Wineinger, RDA, Ninth District Trustee

Joanne Wineinger, RDA, is the Ninth District Trustee for ADAA. She is a resident of Denton, TX, and was a practicing dental assistant for 45 years. Ms. Wineinger has been an ADAA member since 1962 and currently serves as the Texas Dental Assistants Association (TDAA) Chairman of the Past President's Council and TDAA Executive Secretary.