How often will Hepatitis B infected licensees be monitored for compliance?

Licensees who are infected with Hepatitis B are subject to monitoring to ensure compliance with specific health and safety regulations. The requirement for monitoring once a year is established to maintain a balance between the need for public safety and the operational needs of dental hygienists. This annual monitoring allows for adequate oversight while also minimizing the burden on healthcare professionals.

The choice of annual monitoring is critical because it provides a structured timeframe for reviewing the licensee's health status and adherence to required protocols, ensuring that they can perform their duties without posing a risk to patients or the public. Moreover, it allows dental hygienists time to demonstrate that they are effectively managing their condition and adhering to any necessary practice limitations or requirements set forth by the Florida Board of Dentistry. This frequency strikes an appropriate balance between vigilance and practicality in the ongoing management of Hepatitis B among dental professionals.