West Virginia State Advocacy Efforts
Advancing Oral Health Policy in West Virginia
WVDHA is committed to improving oral health outcomes by advocating for smart, forward-thinking legislation across the Mountain State. Below are current initiatives we support, along with resources to help you stay informed and engaged.
Dental and Dental Hygienist Compact (DDH Compact)
The Council of State Governments (CSG), in partnership with the Department of Defense (DoD), the American Dental Association (ADA), and the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA), is developing an interstate compact to enhance the mobility of licensed dental professionals. This compact will streamline license reciprocity among participating states and reduce barriers to workforce mobility.
Oral Health & Cancer Rights Act (OHCRA)
The Oral Health & Cancer Rights Act (OHCRA) supports equitable access to oral health care for individuals affected by cancer. Recognizing the critical connection between oral health and overall well-being, this initiative promotes awareness, patient protections, and educational resources to empower both providers and patients.
WVDHA endorses efforts to integrate oral care into cancer treatment and survivorship plans, helping to improve long-term health outcomes across West Virginia.
Medicaid Adult Dental Benefit Expansion
During times of public health emergencies, dental hygienists in West Virginia have played a critical role in expanding access to care by administering vaccines. These temporary measures demonstrated the ability of trained hygienists to safely and effectively support vaccination efforts in collaboration with state and local health authorities.
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WVDHA supports the evaluation and development of long-term policies that recognize the role of dental hygienists in preventive health initiatives—especially in rural or underserved areas where access to care is limited.
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WVDHA supports the utilization of the Adult Dental Medicaid Benefit as a means for rural and underserved communities to access oral health care needs.
As per the Dental Practice Act, §30-4-25., during a declared public health emergency, dentists and dental hygienists with a local anesthesia certificate, may administer vaccines, perform FDA-authorized diagnostic tests to screen patients for infectious diseases, triage medical patients, and perform other ancillary medical procedures and activities as requested by medical personnel.
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Source: https://wvbodv7prod.glsuite.us/GLSuiteWeb/Clients/WVBOD/StaticFiles/pdf/Laws/30-4.2024.pdf
DH Vaccine Administration
Teledentistry
Teledentistry is transforming how patients access oral health services—especially in remote and underserved communities. By using secure digital technology, dental professionals can consult, screen, and educate patients without requiring an in-person visit.
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WVDHA supports policies that protect patient privacy, ensure quality of care, and promote the safe use of teledentistry as part of a broader strategy to increase access.
Tobacco use is a leading cause of oral cancer, gum disease, and other serious health issues. WVDHA is committed to reducing the impact of tobacco in West Virginia by supporting education, advocacy, and professional training for dental hygienists.
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Through evidence-based interventions and statewide awareness campaigns, we empower providers to help patients quit tobacco and live healthier lives.