Senate Hearing Advocates for Expanding Dental Education to Address Workforce Shortages in Pennsylvania
A Senate Majority Policy Committee public hearing was held in Jenkins Township, Pennsylvania, to address the public health impact of dental care shortages and explore strategies to expand the dental workforce. Chaired by Sen. Dave Argall, the hearing featured dental professionals, educators, and advocates discussing the challenges in accessing dental care and proposing solutions. Dr. Roosevelt Allen, a senior vice president at United Concordia Dental, highlighted the geographic maldistribution of dental professionals, creating 'dental deserts' in rural areas. Recommendations included establishing a new dental school in central Pennsylvania, expanding the scope of practice for dental hygienists, and implementing loan repayment programs for dentists in shortage areas. Dr. James Mancini of the Pennsylvania Dental Association noted a significant outflow of dentists from the state, partly due to complex insurance requirements. 
