Creating a system with universal licensure for dentists would be a big boost for the dental industry for a multitude of reasons, according to this dentist.
Nabil Fehmi, DDS, is the founder and chief clinical officer of Westwind Integrated Health in Phoenix.
The leader featured in this article is speaking at Becker's 2024 dental conferences. This includes our Spring Future of Dentistry Roundtable, which is set for June 19-21 at the Swissotel in Chicago, and the Fall Future of Dentistry Roundtable, which is set for Oct. 30 to Nov. 1 at the Hyatt Regency in Chicago.
If you work at a DSO or dental practice and would like to be considered as a speaker, please contact Randi Haseman at rhaseman@beckershealthcare.com.
Note: Response was lightly edited for clarity and length.
Question: What is something in the dental industry that you feel is outdated or needs to be changed/updated?
Dr. Nabil Fehmi: There are a few things that come to mind that I would like to see changed/updated in the dental industry. One of the most impactful reforms in dentistry would be universal licensure, which will provide many benefits to the entire dental community. Here are some of the biggest advantages to universal dental licenses:
1. Flexibility for dentists: Universal licensure allows dentists the freedom to practice across state lines without the hassle of obtaining multiple state-specific licenses. This flexibility is especially beneficial for those looking to relocate for personal reasons or to pursue new job opportunities, or to serve in communities that are desperately in need of dental professionals.
2. Better access to care: By removing geographical restrictions, universal licensure can greatly improve access to dental services, particularly in rural or underserved areas where dental professionals are scarce. This can make a huge difference in communities that struggle to attract and retain qualified dentists.
3. Consistent standards of care: Implementing a universal licensing system would standardize the criteria and skills required to practice dentistry across the country. This ensures that all patients receive a consistent level of care, regardless of where they live, improving patient safety and trust in the dental profession.
4. Quick response to emergencies: In emergency situations, such as natural disasters, dentists can cross state lines to provide critical services without the delay of bureaucracy. This responsiveness can be crucial in times of need.
5. Cost and time efficiency: Eliminating the need for multiple licenses can save dentists significant amounts of time and money. This includes savings on application fees, renewal costs, and the time spent on completing varying continuing education requirements for different states.
6. Expansion of teledentistry: As the field of teledentistry expands, having a universal license could simplify the legal complexities of offering dental consultations and follow-ups online across different states. This not only benefits patients by offering greater convenience but also allows dental practices to extend their reach.
7. Career development: Universal licensure opens up broader career possibilities for dental professionals. It makes it easier to follow shifting job markets, join practices in multiple states, or participate in interstate collaborative projects and research.
8. Hands-on training: Universal licensure will allow continuing education providers to establish hands-on live courses within the U.S., eliminating the need for dentists to travel overseas to attend courses that incorporate live patient training.