RDHAP
Registered Dental Hygienist in Alternative Practice
What is an RDHAP
A Registered Dental Hygienist in Alternative Practice (RDHAP) is a dental hygienist with specialized education, training, and an additional license that allows them to provide care outside of the traditional dental office setting. RDHAP’s deliver high quality dental hygiene care directly to your home!
Why an RDHAP originated
The RDHAP profession was created to address gaps in access to dental care, particularly in underserved areas and for individuals who face barriers to receiving traditional in-office care. This license was developed to ensure that individuals with limited access to conventional dental care can still receive essential dental services.
Who can an RDHAP treat?
RDHAP’s are legally authorized to treat individuals who meet SPECIFIC CRITERIA - like being homebound, living in a care facility, having a medical or physical condition, or living in an underserved community (must be designated through the Designated Health professional Shortage Area, HSPA, website) that makes it difficult visit a traditional dental office.
Where can an RDHAP deliver care
An RDHAP can deliver care in a variety of settings outside of a traditional dental office. Some of the key places where an RDHAP can work include:
Patients' Homes
Nursing Homes/Long-Term Care Facilities
Schools
Hospitals
Community Clinics
Rural/Underserved Areas
Mobile Clinics
*In addition to the aforementioned anyone residing in a dental health designated Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA) can be seen by an RDHAP. Follow the steps by clicking “Learn More” located below to see if you qualify!
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