A registered dental hygienist in alternative practice (RDHAP) offers an alternative to

private practice, and in doing so addresses access to care barriers by serving vulnerable

patient populations. With on-site dental hygiene, people who might go untreated can

receive care. Examples of when house calls are beneficial:

Challenged mobility, cognitive impairment, limited manual dexterity, dry mouth, and

complex medical histories are common in this population. Healthcare professionals

understand that the health of the mouth impacts the health of the body, and that oral

health is integral to sustained systemic health as well as quality of life.

Oral healthcare is an important part of prenatal care. Additionally, the health of each

member in the family unit can be addressed so more time can be dedicated to recovery,

bonding, etc.

To avoid complications like osteonecrosis of the jaw, meticulous oral hygiene is required

of those who have undergone radiation therapy to the head and neck.

If an environment has been established at home that best suits the individual then it

makes sense to bring care to them.

If getting to a dental office is too risky (e.g. injury from falling, getting hopelessly lost,

etc.) then house calls are an alternative.

Eye exams are conducted in schools, why not dental hygiene, too? Parents don't have to

take time off work, kids don't have to be removed from school, and disruption to the

education process is minimized.

Serious life-altering complications can arise in those with a history of bisphosphonate use

who require oral surgery. The best treatment is prevention in the form of good oral

hygiene.

Returning to civilian life can be daunting, which is why bringing services to the

individual in a familiar safe space can be helpful.

Decreasing oral bacteria prior to surgery facilitates recovery, and maintenance while in

recovery is helpful if the ability to engage in the activities of daily living are

compromised.

House calls are suitable for those who find it challenging to come into a dental office.

Caregivers are often the primary caretaker and unable to leave those in their charge

unattended, which makes caring for themselves difficult.

There are various reasons why a person might require a dentist. For non-emergencies,

patients can either go to a dentist or have a dentist brought to them. That dentist can

either be someone Julie chooses or someone the patient chooses. If the patient has a

dentist they would like to be seen by then Julie is happy to work with the existing dental

team.

No more than when referring to any other specialist. Julie carries her own professional

liability insurance. Referral slips are always welcome.

Dental hygienists (i.e., license RDH) who work in dental offices are employees who work

for dentists. Dental hygienists who do house calls (i.e., license AP) are independent

contractors who work with dentists depending on the needs of the patient. Julie uses both

licenses.

Julie is an out-of-network provider. As a courtesy, Julie submits a claim on the patient’s

behalf and the insurance reimbursement goes directly to the insured, which is why

payment is due when services are rendered. Julie can submit claims to DentiCal or

Medicare.