12VAC5-520-80: Population and dentist data

In order to determine the population-to-dentist ratio, the commissioner shall:

1. Use the population data or projections from the United States Census for independent cities, counties and counties with independent cities within their boundaries;

2. Determine the number of practitioners of dentistry from data secured from the Virginia State Board of Dentistry and the American Dental Association, adjusting for those dentists licensed in Virginia but practicing in other states, the military and retired dentists with active licenses;

3. Calculate this ratio every five years; and

4. Include as dental underserved areas those cities and counties determined to be dental health professions shortage areas as defined by the Department of Health and Human Services or designated a federal shortage area for the practice of dentistry as outlined in 42 CFR 5.1.