Dear Board of Dentistry members,

I am against the Petition for Rule-Making to allow DAIIs to have on the job training.  On the job training is spotty at best.  Just because you have assisted for several years does not negate the fact that formal training is required to perform chairside duties.  The VA BOD has training regulations set forth for DAIIs to obtain certification.  DAIIs in Virginia are allowed to perform more invasive procedures than any other state in the country that allows expanded function.  For this reason, all DAIIs should graduate from a CODA accredited program where educational standards are set and maintained.  While other health professions like physical therapy, occupational therapy, pharmacy and nursing have increased educational requirements for their professions; dentistry consistently requests for less training and education for DAIs and DAIIs.  The public deserves a qualified, college-educated practitioner.  Our profession needs to work with integrity to address very real issues our profession faces without compromising our duty to first, do no harm to patients, coworkers and the public depending on us.

All the best,

Tammy