As a CDA and educator of a high school level DA 1 program, I am happy there is room for advancement for Virginia dental assistants.  There is value in quality education; it should result in quality patient care.  

Specific didactic course work and clinical training should absolutely be required in a DA II program.  The combination of didactic work, practice on manikin simulators, and on consenting patients with a 'calibrated' dentist in the treatment room makes good sense.  At a glance, the proposed changes seem specific enough to encourage a solid, competency-based program.  

However, I am not in favor of shortening the hours of the documented training just to get a higher quantity of DA II's.  Lessening requirements doesn't seem to be an ideal solution to the burden of cost.  In fact, a less expensive education could ultimately cost the patient.  This, in turn, would cost the profession.  

With over 35 years of experience as a dental assistant, I have learned that there is no substitute for quality.  The dental profession is not the only profession that struggles to maintain a good balance of quality and quantity.  But, our patients depend on us to do the very best we can.  It is the responsibility of us, as professionals, to ensure they get just that!