Northam signs legislation to authorize more medical professionals to administer COVID-19 vaccine
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Emergency legislation that would allow dentists, other health care professionals and some medical students, to administer COVID-19 vaccines has been signed by Governor Ralph Northam and becomes law immediately.
Senate Bill 1445, sponsored by Senator Siobhan S. Dunnavant (R-Henrico) and House Bill 2333, sponsored by Delegate Lamont Bagby (D-Richmond) would permit any qualified and available health care provider in Virginia to volunteer to administer COVID-19 vaccines.
Virginia dentists have already been preparing to apply their experience and expertise toward the collective fight against the coronavirus, according to the Virginia Dental Association, which represents more than 3,900 member dentists across the Commonwealth.
“Virginia Dental Association member dentists are eager to step up and help with the COVID-19 vaccine effort,” said Dr. Frank Iuorno, president of the Virginia Dental Association. “As additional COVID-19 vaccines become available, the ability to include dentists in local rollout plans gives Health Districts one more tool to accelerate distribution. Dentists are highly-trained and likely give more injections than any other health care professional.”
Many Virginia dentists have already completed the Virginia Department of Health’s COVID-19 Vaccine Provider Intent Form. The form is the first step for any provider interested in administering the COVID-19 vaccine.
As the bill becomes law, dentists and dental students in good academic standing will be able to volunteer at vaccination events throughout the state and more easily be able to offer space to host vaccination clinics.
