Notice is hereby given in accordance with § 2.2-4007.01 of the Code of Virginia that the Board of Dentistry intends to consider amending 18VAC60-21, Regulations Governing the Practice of Dentistry. The purpose of the proposed action is to consider regulations for dentists prescribing medications containing opioids and for continuing education for prescribers of controlled substances to address the opioid abuse crisis in Virginia. Regulations for the management of acute pain may include requirements for the evaluation of the patient, limitations on quantity and dosage, and recordkeeping. Management of chronic pain may require either referral to a pain management specialist or adherence to regulations of the Board of Medicine. All dentists who prescribe Schedules II through IV drugs may be required to take two hours of continuing education on pain management during the renewal cycle following the effective date of the regulations.

The agency intends to hold a public hearing on the proposed action after publication in the Virginia Register.

Statutory Authority: §§ 54.1-2400 and 54.1-2708.4 of the Code of Virginia.

Public Comment Deadline: June 14, 2017.

Agency Contact: Sandra Reen, Executive Director, Board of Dentistry, 9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 300, Richmond, VA 23233, telephone (804) 367-4437, FAX (804) 527-4428, or email sandra.reen@dhp.virginia.gov.