Law Summary
Objective
- Strengthen regulatory policy to protect public health and community welfare.
- Ensure high compliance among dental laboratories and stakeholders.
- Incorporate advances in dental laboratory technology.
Scope
- Applies to all persons, entities, or corporations operating dental laboratories, both government and private.
- Excludes dental laboratories solely used for teaching/training or manufacturing denture components.
Definitions
- Key terms: BHFS, CHD, DOH, LTO, PRC, Dentist, Dental Technologist, Laboratory Technician, Technical Services, Dental Laboratory, Dental Technician, Appliances, Dentures, Orthodontics, Prosthodontics.
- Definitions clarify roles, service types, and equipment involved in dental laboratories.
Guidelines
- License issued to dental laboratories meeting DOH standards and technical requirements.
- BHFS formulates and publishes inspection standards online.
- Licensed dentists providing services only for their own practice are exempt from LTO, but must secure it if servicing others or advertising.
Specific Guidelines:
- Classification by ownership: Private and Government.
- Classification by service capability:
- Removable prostheses services (e.g., dentures, orthodontic appliances).
- Fixed prostheses services (e.g., crowns, bridges).
- Combination of removable and fixed services.
- Limited services (e.g., casting and framework soldering).
- Standards for dental laboratories:
- Supervision by licensed dentists or dental technologists.
- Adequate personnel with proper qualifications.
- Equipped with functional instruments, properly maintained.
- Physical plant with clean, safe, well-lit, and ventilated areas including segregation for metal casting and ceramic processing.
- Records must be legible and properly stored.
- Safety devices and infection control protocols are mandatory.
Procedural Guidelines
- Initial application requires submission of several documents including personnel lists, equipment, certification, layout, and payment of fees.
- CHD conducts inspections and issues LTO within specified time frames.
- Terms and conditions of LTO include non-transferability, display requirements, notification of changes, and fees for replacements.
- Renewal applications to be made before expiration, with discounts or surcharges depending on timing.
- Continuous monitoring and reporting required.
Implementing Mechanism
- BHFS publishes licensed dental labs list, assists CHD, provides technical support, monitors compliance.
- CHD issues LTO, inspects, monitors, investigates complaints, and can suspend/revoke licenses.
- Dental laboratories must maintain compliance, proper record-keeping, and facility use.
- PRC handles complaints against dentists/dental technologists.
- Professional organizations and local government units assist in enforcement and reporting.
Validity
- LTO is valid for 3 years, expiring on anniversary date.
Transitory Provisions
- Existing labs allowed renewal LTO 2008-2010 without current PRC registration but must comply fully by 2011.
- New labs licensed 2008-2010 allowed initial LTO without PRC registration but must comply fully by 2011.
Violations
- False statements, operating without valid LTO, refusal of inspection, illegal dentistry practice, unauthorized branches, misleading signs, misuse of premises.
Investigation of Complaints
- CHD investigates complaints; may suspend or revoke LTO and refer cases for criminal action.
Revocation and Suspension
- Licenses may be suspended/revoked for violations with written notice.
Appeal
- Appeal to DOH Office of the Secretary within 30 days; decision is final and executory.
Closure
- CHD may order immediate closure of establishments operating without LTO.
Penal Provisions
- Penalties range from imprisonment (1 month to 1 year), fines (P200 to P1,000), or both.
Repealing and Separability Clause
- Previous inconsistent rules repealed or amended.
- Invalid provisions do not affect the rest of the order.
Effectivity
- Rules take effect 15 days after approval and publication in a general circulation newspaper.