HAYS, Kan. (AP) Fort Hays University says it wants to offer the state’s first bachelor’s degree program for registered dental practitioners.
But the proposal depend on the Kansas Legislature approving a bill that would allow dental practitioners in the state. Dental practitioners perform preventative and routines services such as cleanings and fillings.
During testimony Tuesday before a legislative committee, Fort Hays president Edward Hammond said the state needs dental practitioners to provide access to dental care in rural areas of the state.
The Lawrence Journal-World reports that an estimated 93 Kansas counties do not have enough dental care, with the shortage particularly severe in western Kansas.
However, the Kansas Dental Association opposes the measure, saying dental practitioners would jeopardize public health and safety.
