HARRISBURG – Lancaster County Sen. Scott Martin’s legislation giving educational credits to dentists who volunteer at free clinics and charity events is on its way to the governor’s desk after PA House passage. Senate Bill 1173 will allow dentists to claim up to three hours served at a volunteer clinic or a charitable event as continuing education credit. Multiple studies link poor oral health to heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and overall health and well-being. The volunteer opportunities provide critical access to underserved populations who often fall through the cracks in our existing health care system. Martin said dentists who participate not only hone their skills but expose themselves, in many cases, to progressive dental emergencies that arise from lack of routine care. He added, “I believe this type of volunteerism should be encouraged and its value should be properly recognized.”
SEN. SCOTT MARTIN