Registered Dental Hygienist in Alternative Practice (RDHAP) Law and Ethics Practice Exam

How long is a prescription for dental hygiene services valid, based on a dentist's or physician's professional judgment?

1. One year

2. Two years

3. Six months

4. Until revoked

The correct answer is: Two years

A prescription for dental hygiene services, based on a dentist's or physician's professional judgment, is typically valid for two years. This time frame allows for continuity of care and ensures that the patient can receive ongoing services as needed. In many jurisdictions, the two-year validity aligns with standard practices in healthcare, which facilitates the planning and delivery of necessary treatments without frequent renewals, balancing patient care needs and the professional assessment of treatment plans. The selection of two years reflects a recognition of the evolving nature of patient health and treatment approaches, allowing for flexibility while ensuring that patients are receiving care based on up-to-date evaluations by qualified professionals.