The dental attorneys at Nardone Limited in Columbus, Ohio want to ensure our clients execute the proper procedures when dealing with its employees and patients. We want to make sure that our dental clients are fully aware of the functions that can be performed in the dental office and which dental employees can perform those functions. We regularly check the Ohio State Dental Board meeting minutes and updates to better understand the laws in Ohio, so we can update and advise our clients on various matters that may impact the dental office and the treatment of patients. A dental practice must be well-informed of all aspects and functions of a dental office.

     Based on recent communications with the Ohio State Dental Board (the “Board”), the Board is considering adding phlebotomy, or the drawing of blood, to the scope of practice for dental auxiliaries. The term “dental auxiliary” includes dental hygienists and dental assistants. Currently, Ohio law is silent on whether phlebotomy is a function that a dental auxiliary can perform. Phlebotomy training is also not included in the required coursework for dental auxiliaries in the state of Ohio. But, a dental auxiliary could attend a phlebotomy training program separately, and therefore, would be able to draw blood in Ohio. The pertinent question is: Is a qualified dental auxiliary allowed to draw blood in a dental office?

Background Regarding the Drawing of Blood in a Dental Office

     In the Board’s December 2017 meeting, the Board discussed the issue of a dental auxiliary drawing blood in a dental office and whether phlebotomy should be added to the scope of practice for a dental auxiliary. The Board discussed the requirements that are necessary to draw blood in Ohio, and whether the phlebotomy requirements and courses in Ohio offer enough training for dental auxiliaries to draw blood in a dental office. Unfortunately, the Board determined that more research and further information was necessary before the Board could make a recommendation. Click here for more information regarding the meeting minutes from the Board’s December 2017 meeting.

Whether a Qualified Dental Auxiliary is Allowed to Draw Blood in a Dental Office

     To answer the prior question as to whether a qualified dental auxiliary is allowed to draw blood in a dental office, Nardone Limited recommends that as long as the dental auxiliary is trained under Ohio law in phlebotomy, the dental auxiliary may draw blood in a dental office. Ohio law only requires phlebotomists to attend a phlebotomy training program and to complete the requirements necessary to obtain a certificate of completion from the training program. Thus, the dental auxiliary must attend and complete one of the phlebotomy training programs offered in the state of Ohio. Upon obtaining a certificate of completion from that program, the dental auxiliary may draw blood in a dental office.

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     If you have any concerns about the scope of practice for a dental auxiliary or the requirements for a dental auxiliary to become authorized to draw blood in the state of Ohio, contact Nardone Limited. The dental attorneys at Nardone Limited are well-versed on the functions of a dental auxiliary and can advise your dental practice on the requirements necessary for a dental auxiliary to become a phlebotomist. If you would like more information regarding your dental practice and the functions of dental auxiliaries, contact Nardone Limited.