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SCS/SB 924 - This act regulates not-for-profit corporations providing dental services.

Current law allows the Dental Board to investigate dental offices along with their records, labs, and equipment for violations of the chapter. This act allows the Board to also investigate not-for-profit corporations licensed to practice dentistry (Section 332.051 ).

Section 332.071, RSMo, currently defines the practice of dentistry. This act adds to the definition the review of exam findings, x-rays, or other patient data in order to decide about the dental care of a patient (Section 332.071).

Current law prohibits any person from practicing dentistry without a license. This act prohibits corporations or entities from practicing without a license as well. Only 501(c)(3) corporations under Chapters 355 or 356, RSMo, will be allowed to practice dentistry. Such corporations must only provide dental services to Medicaid recipients and to those persons with income under 300 percent of the federal poverty level and such patients must make up 90 percent of the corporation's practice. They must only employ Missouri-licensed dentists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants. The corporation must be organized for health purposes only. No 501(c)(3) corporation under Chapter 355, RSMo, may interfere with a licensed dentist's professional judgment. Such corporations may apply for a license to practice dentistry in Missouri. Licensed corporations will be subject to all disciplinary and license approval procedures (Section 332.081).

Corporations and entities are added to current law which imposes a Class A misdemeanor on persons who practice without a license and allows injunctions or restraining orders to prevent further unauthorized practice.

This act is similar to HB 1420 (2002).

ERIN MOTLEY