Can the Board of Dentistry limit the number of dental hygienists in a Health Resource Development (HRD) program?

The Board of Dentistry cannot limit the number of dental hygienists in a Health Resource Development (HRD) program because HRD programs are designed to enhance access to dental care, especially in underserved areas. The primary purpose of these programs is to ensure that there are enough qualified health professionals to meet the needs of the community. By imposing limitations on the number of dental hygienists, the board could inadvertently restrict access to essential dental services that HRD programs aim to provide. Therefore, the unfettered inclusion of dental hygienists in HRD programs is crucial for addressing dental health disparities and improving public health outcomes.

This context highlights why the legislation inherently seeks to support the workforce in areas of need, making it clear that restricting the number of professionals in these specific programs would counteract their foundational goals.