18VAC60-21-165: Delegation to digital scan technicians for use in teledentistry

A. A dentist who delegates the taking of a digital scan by a digital scan technician shall ensure that the technician has a certificate of completion from a training program approved by the board that includes:

1. Training in prepping the patient, taking and evaluating the quality of a digital scan, safety protocols, and dental terminology given by a sponsor approved for continuing education as set forth in 18VAC60-21-250 C; and

2. In-office training by the manufacturer on the proper operation of the digital scanner that includes orientation to the process and protocols for taking and evaluating digital scans for fabrication of a restoration or an appliance.

B. The dentist who directs a digital scan technician to take digital scans shall establish:

1. Written or electronic protocols for the practice of teledentistry in compliance with § 54.1-2711 B and C of the Code of Virginia;

2. Written or electronic protocols and procedures for the performance of digital scans by digital scan technicians in compliance with § 54.1-2708.5 B of the Code of Virginia; and

3. A written or electronic work order for a digital scan that includes the required components of a dental work order.

C. The dentist who directs a digital scan technician to take digital scans shall be:

1. Licensed by the board to practice dentistry in the Commonwealth;

2. Accessible and available for communication and consultation with the digital scan technician at all times during the patient interaction;

3. Ultimately responsible for communicating with the patient or the patient's representative the specific treatment the patient will receive, which aspects of treatment will be delegated to qualified personnel, and the direction required for such treatment, in accordance with this chapter and the Code of Virginia.

D. The directing dentist shall make available to the board any requested:

1. Protocols and procedures as specified in subsection B of this section;

2. Evidence that the digital scan technician has complied with the training requirements of subsection A of this section; and

3. Written or electronic work orders used for digital scans.