It has come to the attention of the WSDA that there is some confusion around the current status of the Dental Quality Insurance Commission’s (DQAC) proposed infection control rules. Currently, DQAC is working on updating our state’s dental infection control rules in an effort to prevent disease transmission in oral healthcare. Among the proposed rule changes is a provision for waterline testing. WSDA has been actively engaged throughout the rulemaking process, asking the Infection Control Committee to consider unintended barriers to care as well as other unintended consequences before moving forward with the rule modifications. 

Please note that the proposed infection control rules have NOT been finalized. The Infection Control Committee continues to meet regularly to discuss stakeholder comments and consider additional rule changes. Therefore, it is inaccurate for dental supply company representatives to instruct practices to purchase waterline testing materials immediately, citing the proposed rules.

The next Dental Infection Control Committee meeting will be held via webinar on Thursday, May 23 at 12:00 PM. If you are interested in participating in the webinar, please contact Jennifer Santiago at jennifer.santiago@doh.wa.gov for the approved webinar information. You may also submit any questions, comments, or concerns regarding the proposed rules to Jennifer Santiago.