Gary Turco

Several of my colleagues and the Connecticut Oral Health Initiative (COHI) led a bipartisan press conference last week calling for passage of House Bill 5303, which would allow licensed dental hygienists to provide preventive oral health care directly in the homes of homebound Connecticut residents.

The bill, which passed unanimously out of the Aging Committee, would permit dental hygienists with at least two years of experience to provide care — including cleanings, oral examinations, X-rays, and referrals — in private residences, under the same standards they already meet in nursing homes, group homes, hospitals, and schools. Expanding access to home settings will make preventive dental care available to patients who struggle to reach a dental office due to age, disability, or lack of transportation — without requiring a supervising dentist to be present on-site.

The need is significant. According to DataHaven, approximately 400,000 Connecticut adults are transport insecure, unable to leave home due to lack of transportation. Nearly half of those adults have not seen a dentist in the past year. For those who also live with a disability, that number climbs to 55%. Among Connecticut’s Medicaid-enrolled adults, half did not see a dentist even once in a given year between 2015 and 2020.

The gap has real health consequences. Untreated tooth decay and gum disease worsen chronic conditions including diabetes and cardiovascular disease, and can lead to life-threatening infections. A dental hygienist in the home can serve as a critical first line of detection — identifying infections, gum disease, and early signs of oral cancer before they become emergencies. 

HB 5303 does not change the scope of practice for dental hygienists — it changes the setting. Under current law, dental hygienists already provide care in the community at senior centers, schools, nursing homes, and other facilities. All home-based care provided under the bill remains subject to Connecticut Department of Public Health standards and regulations. No dentist or dental practice is required to participate; the bill creates an option for those willing and able to serve homebound patients.

From the town of Newington's website:

The Town Council is proudly recognizing Master Police Officer Arkadiusz Petlik for his nearly 18 years of dedicated service to the Newington community.  

Known for his professionalism, courage, and genuine commitment to keeping others safe, Officer Petlik has made a meaningful impact throughout his career. He joined the Newington Police Department as a patrol officer on Aug. 13, 2007, and went on to serve in several specialized roles, including as a K-9 officer, where he brought skill, care, and dedication to his work.  Petlik was also a valued member of the department’s Emergency Response Team, first joining in 2008 and returning for additional terms in 2016 and 2022.

Over the years, Petlik received numerous honors, including the Life Saving Award three times.  In 2022, he was promoted to Master Police Officer, a well-earned acknowledgment of his experience, leadership, and dedication.

Colleagues and community members alike have come to know Petlik for his strong work ethic, and integrity. His contributions have left a lasting mark on the department and the town he served.

The Town Council extends its heartfelt thanks to Officer Petlik for his years of service and wishes him all the best in a happy, healthy, and fulfilling retirement.