September 2014
Journal of the Georgia Dental Association
GDA Guidebook 2014-15 Helping Members at Every Stage of Practice Stay Prepared and On Track
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CALL COAST DENTAL TODAY Cristina R. King Manager of Doctor Recruiting (855) 559-6888 Cristina.King@CoastDental.com www.linkedin.com/in/cristinarking Careers.CoastDental.com ^The compensation and benefits outlined are for full-time, employee general dentists; terms and conditions apply. Independent contractors are not eligible. Ask us about opportunities for independent contractors. EOE/M/F/D/V. The dentists and hygienists are employees or independent contractors of Coast Dental of Georgia, P.C., (Adam Diasti, DDS, DN11634). © 2014 Coast Dental. All rights reserved. CD-101835
GDACONTENTS SEPTEMBER 2014 VOLUME 33, NO. 9
COMMENTARIES 5 • Editorial
Dr. David Bradberry on the new Annual Meeting.
7 • Your Alliance
Mrs. Cindy Jernigan on Respect, Renew, Reinvest, and Revitalize!
9 • New Dentists
Dr. Chris Hasty on changes in the ADA New Dentist Conference.
COLUMNS 11 • Endorsed Services
Should you select claims made or occurrence malpractice coverage?
13 • Politics & Dentistry
An invitation to come to LAW Day and help shape state legislation.
18 • GDA Guidebook 2014-15 Starting and maintaining a practice, or being an associate in a practice, is a rewarding but challenging experience. This guide offers ways that members at every stage of practice, from recent graduates to established practitioners, can keep their practice and profession on track with help from the Georgia Dental Association, American Dental Association, and their local district.
15 • Spotlight on the ADA
The Center for Professional Success gives great value for all members.
GDA / SOURCEBOOK 2014-15 STATE OFFICERS
17 • Leadership Pathways The impact of frontline people on your practice’s bottom line.
Dr. Doug Torbush PRESIDENT 1000 Iris Dr SW Conyers, GA 30094 Phone: (770) 922-1666 Fax: (770) 922-6131 torbush@gmail.com
Dr. Thomas Broderick PRESIDENT ELECT 500 Eisenhower Dr Savannah GA 31406 Phone (912) 355-7022 Fax (912) 355-1415 thomas.broderick@ comcast.net
Dr. Ben Jernigan Jr. VICE PRESIDENT 315 W Ponce De Leon Ave Ste 340 Decatur GA 30030 Phone (404) 378-1466 Fax (404) 378-4925 bjerni4080@aol.com
Dr. Jay Phillips Jr. SECRETARY/TREASURER (2019) 209 24th St East Tifton GA 31794 Phone (229) 382-8711 Fax (229) 382-8714 j.phillips@tiftregional dentalgroup.com
Dr. David Bradberry EDITOR (2017) 1070 Woodlawn Dr NE Ste 250 Marietta GA 30068 Phone: (770) 977-8644 Fax: (770) 971-7953 drbradberry@ bellsouth.net
BOARD OF TRUSTEES Past President Dr. Marshall Mann Phone: (706) 235-1186 Fax: (706) 234-9007 marshallmhm@aol.com Speaker of the House Dr. Jay Harrington Phone: (478) 453-8666 Fax: (478) 452-0223 jfhdds@windstream.net
36 • MILESTONES 40 • CALENDAR 41 • PROMOTIONS 42 • INFOGRAPHIC 43 • MY GDA 44 • CLASSIFIEDS
Central District Trustee Dr. Mike Loden Phone: (478) 923-0253 Fax: (478) 923-6906 smldmd@bellsouth.net Eastern District Dr. Erik Wells Phone: (706) 548-7373 Fax: (706) 548-8088 docwells7@yahoo.com Northern District Dr. Chris Adkins Phone: (770) 506-2443 Fax: (770) 506-2497 chrisadkinsdds@bellsouth.net
Northwestern District Dr. Robin Reich Phone: (770) 435-5450 Fax: (770) 436-7477 robin.reich@reichdental center.com Southeastern District Dr. Byron Colley Phone: (912) 355-5901 Fax: (912) 355-0735 hacolley@gmail.com Southwestern District Dr. Steve Sample Phone: (229) 439-8896 Fax: (229) 435-4773 steven.sample.dds@gmail.com
Eastern District Dr. Jason Sayer Phone: (912) 638-9946 Fax: (912) 638-4407 drsayer@sayerendo.com
Southeastern District Dr. Matt Rosenthal Phone (912) 352-7808 Fax (912) 352-7807 mrosenthal9@gmail.com
Western District Dr. James Lopez Phone: (706) 324-1834 Fax: (706) 324-5101 lope3017@bellsouth.net
Northern District Dr. Evis Babo Phone (404) 605-0359 Fax (404) 605-0678 evisbabodmd@gmail.com
Southwestern District Dr. Bonita Richter Phone (229) 294-3229 Fax (229) 294-3231 bonitatoothgirl@aol.com
PRESIDENTS ELECT Central District Dr. Cameron Garvin Phone (478) 745-2002 camerongarvin@gmail.com
Northwestern District Dr. David Bradberry Phone (770) 977-8644 Fax (770) 971-7953 drbradberry@bellsouth.net
Western District Dr. Jeff King Phone (706) 322-6551 Fax (706) 576-5154 jeffking@knology.net
28 • September 2014
41 • PROMOTIONS
28 • SOURCEBOOK
36 • MILESTONES
Plan for that spooky time in October when sticky sweets haunt kids’ mouths! Get your “Operation Sweet Tooth” Kit with education tools, games, and social media tips and tricks today at www.gadental.org!
See page 28 for a handy GDA sourcebook containing details on state and district officers, committees, Board and House members, GDA staff, endorsed services, and much more!
See page 36 for a spotlight on our GDA Community Service Award honorees Dr. Becky Weinman (above) and Dr. Karyn Stockwell, plus other news and views of interest.
September 2014 • 3
ABOUTGDA GDA ACTION (ISSN 0273-5989 / USPS PE-590290). The official Journal of the Georgia Dental Association is published monthly. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to GDA Action, 7000 Peachtree Dunwoody Road N.E., Suite 200, Building 17, Atlanta, GA 30328. Dr. Doug Torbush (President) 1000 Iris Dr SW Conyers, GA 30094 torbush@gmail.com Dr. David Bradberry (State Editor) 1070 Woodlawn Dr NE, Ste 250 Marietta, GA 30028 drbradberry@bellsouth.net Delaine Hall (Managing Editor) 7000 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd NE Ste 200, Bldg 17 Atlanta, GA 30328 hall@gadental.org GDA Executive Office 7000 Peachtree Dunwoody Road Suite 200 Building 17 Atlanta, GA 30328-1655 Call (800) 432-4357 Call (404) 636-7553 Fax (404) 633-3943 www.gadental.org GDA ACTION seeks to be an issuesdriven journal focusing on current matters affecting Georgia dentists and patients accomplished by disseminating information and providing a forum for commentary. Closing date for all editorial and advertising materials: First of the month preceding publication month. Subscriptions: $17 of GDA membership dues is for the journal; all others, $75 per year. Periodicals postage paid at Atlanta, GA. © Copyright 2014 by the Georgia Dental Association. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission. Publication of any article or advertisement should not be deemed an endorsement of the opinions expressed or products advertised. The GDA expressly reserves the right to refuse publication of any article, photograph, or advertisement, and illustrate, reduce, or revise any article submitted.
4 • September 2014
YOUR PARTING SHOTS DEA Drug Classification Change Despite efforts by a coalition of dental organizations including the American Dental Association to oppose reclassification of hydrocodone combination drugs, the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) has finalized a rule to classify products such as Vicodin and Norco as Schedule II drugs instead of Schedule III. The reclassification, effective October 6, 2014, will impact dentists with a Schedule III DEA registration because they will have to amend their registration with the DEA to include Schedule II prescriptive authority. This will enable dentists to continue prescribing certain pain-relieving medications for patients. To amend a current registration, visit www.deadiversion. usdoj.gov and look for the registration changes link. There should be no additional charge to amend a registration. The DEA is permitting hydrocodone combination products prescriptions issued before October 6 to be refilled until April 8, 2015, if the prescription authorizes refills.
The DEA’s ruling stems from a U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommendation that hydrocodone combination products be put into a more restrictive classification and schedule. The FDA has become increasingly concerned about the abuse and misuse of opioid products, which they indicate have reached epidemic proportions in parts of the United States. Dentists should be aware that all prescriptions for Schedule II drugs must be written or printed on either prescription paper approved by the Georgia Board of Pharmacy or by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Member dentists with questions may contact Melana McClatchey at mcclatchey@ gadental.org or call (404) 636-7553.
Medicare Prescription Clarification Please see page 26 for a clarification on the August 2014 GDA Action article on opting in or out of Medicare by June 1, 2015, and how that impacts prescriptions written for Medicare patients. Dentists who opt in OR opt out of Medicare by the deadline may still write prescriptions for Medicare patients. Get the details on page 26, third column.
SEPTEMBERADS AFTCO Transition Consultants. . . . . . . . . . .10 Andrew Shaul Law Firm. . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . .46 Center for TMJ Therapy . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . .39 Coast Dental . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 2 Craniofacial Pain Center of Georgia . . . . . . 8 Dental Care Alliance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Dr. Mark Padolsky—TMD Dentist. . . . . . . 46 Fyffe Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 GDA Dental Recovery Network . .. . . . . . . .12 Georgia Dental Insurance Services. . . . . . 48 Hospital Dentistry—Dr. Kurtzman. . . . . . . . 6 Law Office of Stuart J. Oberman . . . . . . 8, 10 Map Laboratory. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Paragon Dental Practice Transitions. . . . . 12 PNC Bank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . 47 Southeast Transitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
September 2014
Journal of the Georgia Dental Association
GDA Guidebook 2014-15 Helping Members at Every Stage of Practice Stay Prepared and On Track
Advertise in GDA Action! Email Skip Jones at jones@gadental.org for rates.
Editorial: Annual Meeting and the New GDA
GDA Editor Dr. David Bradberry.
“The committee is already working to bring an even better meeting next year in Amelia Island. It is shaping up to be the biggest and best yet ... I hope that all of you will join in on the fun.”
DR. DAVID BRADBERRY State Editor Phone (770) 977-8644 drbradberry@bellsouth.net DELAINE HALL Managing Editor Phone (404) 636-7553 hall@gadental.org SKIP JONES Advertising Manager Phone (404) 636-7553 jones@gadental.org
Another year and another annual meeting is in the books. If you were unable to attend, you certainly missed a great time on the beach. Amelia Island is a wonderful place to be in the summer. There are three and one-half days of jam-packed activities available for adults and children. It’s a new century and attending the meeting before does not necessarily imply what you will find there in years to come. As I have mentioned before the world around us is undergoing massive change. As the GDA is changing and adapting to meet the needs and challenges of members today, so the annual meeting is changing as well. The meetings of the past are no indication of what was there for you members this year and what will be there for you in the future. This event should and will continue to reflect the theme and goals of the GDA president. This year’s meeting was no exception. President Marshall Mann selected a theme reflective of an old saying by a U.S. President: “United we stand, divided we fall.” President Mann sent a message that “Together We are Strong, Together We are One GDA.” The meeting kicked off on Thursday with three days of packed continuing education and fellowship designed to fit the needs of many members. The topic of predictable endodontics led off Thursday. This was a sold-out, hands-on course that many are still talking about. Friday included information on comprehensive care and soft tissue grafting. If your brain was not full by Saturday then you could add a little more with teeth in a day / hour oral surgery and Cone Beam radiography for the implant enthusiast. With CE chair Dr. Tom McDonald at the helm you know nothing but the best would suffice. For the family there were children’s activities scattered throughout the weekend that were phenomenal, such as scavenger hunts with breakfast and a family night that included zip lines, rock climbing, arcades, bumper cars, a boot camp course, and giant slides. For outdoor enthusiasts, golf, tennis, fishing, and other activities were available. Since it was summertime many members and their families chose to make a week of vacation time arriving a few days early or staying a few more days after the annual
meeting. It was a great way to have a few days off with family and partake in as many meeting amenities offered as desired. No dental meeting would be complete without business accomplished. Thursday started with district meetings and a gathering of the House of Delegates. The Delegates, your representatives, discussed and acted on the relevant business of the GDA. These are your leaders that make the decisions on overall governance and running of your GDA. Members are encouraged to attend this meeting, observe, and learn. Throughout all of this there were exhibitors available to meet any practice need members may have. I believe we had a record number of exhibitors this year and we were looking for more. A silent auction featuring many items such as a signed guitar by Lady Antebellum was available. The President’s dinner on Saturday brought historic Havana to Amelia. Members were doing their best Latin dancing and some were not bad at all. The weekend closed with the Awards Breakfast on Sunday where President Mann honored all those members who helped make the past year a great one and many who have served diligently for many years. Then our new President Dr. Doug Torbush was installed and he provided many insights for the coming year. Your Annual Meeting Committee works very hard each year to have a meeting that is relevant, exciting, and provides something for everyone. The committee is already working to bring an even better meeting next year in Amelia Island. It is shaping up to be the biggest and best yet and again we will see record attendance. I hope that all of you will join in on the fun. You have kindly allowed each of us in leadership to represent you and we all want to provide the best for you. The world is changing and so the GDA is changing to meet the challenges and needs for you the members. Come see the new meeting next year as we all move forward into an exciting future together.
September 2014 • 5
The safest place for your special needs* patients? In an O.R., of course. *Intense fears and phobias • Severe gag reflexes Medically compromised • Developmentally disabled High liability Put your most stressful and unprofitable cases in the absolute best of hands: Dr. David Kurtzman at his regional Sleep Dentistry practice. • 25 years of hospital dentistry Find out more: • Hospital residency trained • General anesthesia administered by an MD HospitalDentistry.org
Multiple procedures per visit Root Canals General Dentistry Implants Surgery Perio
“The doctor’s safety net.”
Dr. David Kurtzman, DDS, FAGD 770-980-6336 | dkdds@drkurtzman.com
For immediate help, call 888.699.1220 or ViSit DENTALCAREALLIANCE.COM PROTECT YOUR VISION 1 2 3
RELIEVE HEADACHES
Better balance between work and life
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Use DCA’s support to achieve your professional, personal and financial goals
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DCA 37486 GDA Action_HP 4C_First Aid_MECH.indd 1
6 • September 2014
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DON’T CHOkE UNDER PRESSURE
Practice the scope of dentistry you want to practice
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Maximize your earning potential by focusing on patients, not paperwork
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Enjoy autonomy and maintain control over your clinical decisions
Human resources, payroll & benefits Marketing and accounting Insurance management and negotiations Facility management, staff training, C.E. courses and OSHA complaince
2/5/14 2:43 PM
Commentary: Revitalizing the Alliance
Alliance President Cindy Jernigan.
“What an impact this amazing group of very dedicated, smart, creative, and energetic women and men has made in advocating for the dental profession.”
CINDY JERNIGAN President Alliance of the GDA cjerniga@kcc.com www.GDAalliance.com Alliance of the ADA www.AllianceADA.org
I am very honored to be entrusted with the leadership of the Georgia Alliance for the coming year. What an impact this amazing group of very dedicated, smart, creative and energetic women and men has made in advocating for the dental profession, educating the community on a variety of oral health care issues, and looking after the well-being of our dental families! I grew up in Atlanta, studied Environmental Engineering at Vanderbilt, and have been with Kimberly-Clark Corporation in their Global Sustainability Department for 24 years. My husband, Ben, studied dentistry at MCG and has a general dentistry practice in Decatur. Our daughter, Lizzy, graduated from UGA in 2013 and is in advertising with BBDO in Atlanta. Our son, Ben, just turned 21 and is at Berry College, where he is a starting pitcher and designated hitter for the baseball team. I am so grateful to have an extraordinary board and committee chairs who have volunteered to assist Julie Vaughn (our President Elect) and me this year. I am so enjoying planning with such energetic future leaders of the Alliance. GDA President Dr. Doug Torbush’s theme for the year is “Invest the Time to Make a Difference!” I am planning on Alliance members doing exactly that this year! We have a full schedule planned for the year with many opportunities to make a real difference. Please visit www. GDAalliance.com for our calendar, officers, committees, and contact details. My theme this year is to Respect, Renew, Reinvest, and Revitalize! That is, to Respect the Past, Renew our Foundation, Reinvest in our Mission, and Revitalize our Membership. My first goal for this year is to revitalize our membership at the district and Georgia Regents University levels to attract new members, male and female. When you receive your dues statement in October, talk to your spouse about becoming part of the Alliance. There are many potential Alliance members out there who have a ton of energy and new ideas. Korey Anderson has offered to help the Alliance
begin to re-energize the districts and GRU student spouse Alliance programs. You can ask him questions at Korey.a.Anderson@ gmail.com. I have a special project I would like to make happen this year using our Dipper Dan program. With so much press and so many studies coming out about oral cancer and its probable connection with smokeless tobacco that have resulted from the tragic early passing of professional baseball player Tony Gwynn, there is a lot of energy swirling for decoupling the use of smokeless tobacco from the culture of baseball. Current estimates are that 3350% of players at the Junior Varsity and Varsity levels are already using smokeless tobacco and 15-35% of coaches are using tobacco products. There is no question that these substances are part of the baseball culture and players are very often expected to use them. I want the GDA Alliance to be one of the many exhibit booths set up during baseball tournaments at Georgia tournament complexes (think East Cobb County baseball and the huge Lake Point Sports complex in Emerson). The Alliance has eight Dipper Dan kits, so we already have very effective visuals in place. This program can make a difference in whether or not a young player will say NO to dip and hopefully encourage older players who use dip to stop! If you are interested in carrying this message to our young players, email me at cjerniga@kcc.com, or email our project directors Helen Adkins at chcce@bellsouth.net or Sherry Kendrick at sekendrick@comcast.net. This invitation is to our GDA members and Alliance member spouses. I look forward to a great year working with the GDA and bringing our dynamic volunteers together to accomplish wonderful things.
September 2014 • 7
Have your patients complained about neck pain?
HEADPAIN Forehead Temples Migraine type Sinus type
Neck PaiN Prevalence of cervical spinal pain in craniomandibular pain patients. Craniomandibular pain patients more often showed cervical spinal pain than persons without craniomandibular pain, independent of the classification model used. No difference in the prevalence of cervical spinal pain was found between the three subgroups of craniomandibular pain patients. European Journal of Oral Sciences 2001 Apr; vol. 109(2) pp. 76-80. Corine M. Visscher, Frank Lobbezoo, Wim De Boer, Jacques Van Der Zaag, Machiel Naeije
EYES
Pain behind eye, above eye, below eye Sensitive to light
EAR
Ear Pain Ringing in ears Dizziness Vertigo Fullness
TEETH
Clenching/Grinding at night Looseness and soreness of back teeth Unexplained tooth pain
NECK
JAW
Lack of mobility/stiffness Neck pain Tired/sore muscles Arm/finger numbness
Mayoor Patel
Clicking, popping jaw joints Pain in cheek Limited opening Face pain Muscle stiffness
DDS, MS
D.ABDSM, DABOP, DABCP, DAAPM, FICCMO, FAACP, FAGD
1505 Mount Vernon Road, Suite 150 • Dunwoody, GA 30338
P: 678 899 6076 • F: 678 899 6075 W: www.cpcgeorgia.com E: office@cpcgeorgia.com Dental Sleep Medicine and Craniofacial Pain are not recognized as specialty areas by the ADA. Adjunct Clinical Instructor Tufts University, Boston, MA & Georgia Regents University, Augusta, GA
HEADACHES
8 • September 2014
FACIAL PAIN
NECK PAIN
TMJ DISORDERS
SLEEP APNEA
Commentary: The ADA and the New Dentist
GDA Representative on the New Dentist Committee Dr. Chris Hasty.
“... In 2015, in Washington, DC, the NDC will meet in conjunction with America’s Dental Meeting. We see this as a way to ... really give new dentists the benefits of two meetings in one.”
DR. CHRIS HASTY ADA New Dentist Committee cmhasty@gmail.com http://newdentistblog.ada.org DR. KATIE GARVIN GDA New Dentist Liaison katiemgarvin@gmail.com
The ADA New Dentist Committee (NDC) met this summer in Kansas City, Missouri, in conjunction with the annual ADA New Dentist Conference. This meeting was one of the best committee meetings since I have been on the committee—everyone was very engaged. We laid the groundwork for some big changes that will give new dentists, those dentists who are 10 years or less out of dental school, new ways to get involved. One of the main initiatives of the American Dental Association is to increase the value of membership, and in return, add additional membership to the organization. The NDC believes it will play a role in this by collaborating with the American Student Dental Association (ASDA) on opportunities and ways to support dental students in the transition to practice. In addition, the ADA Political Action Committee and the NDC will explore opportunities to collaborate with ASDA on advocacy issues, and communicate these efforts to the dental schools. One of our charges is to increase new dentist involvement in the Association. The committee will establish volunteer editor positions for the New Dentist Blog (http://newdentistblog.ada. org) and collaborate with other ADA agencies to identify potential leadership roles. As a committee, we also identified key new dentist issues including student debt and financial management, employment opportunities, reimbursement and thirdparty issues, preventative care and access to care, workforce issues, and group practice trends. Some dentists on the committee have determined that the ethical and financial considerations of live patient examinations for licensure is a pressing issue for dental students and new dentists, and recommended that this issue be transmitted to appropriate ADA agencies and the Board of Trustees. The NDC elected our vice-chair and chair for the upcoming year at this meeting. It is with great appreciation to the committee that I was elected vice-chair and Dr. Michael Leblanc will assume the position of chair following his year as vice-chair. Since the NDC meeting this summer we have formed a workgroup, of which I am a member, to develop a vision and mission for
the new dentist programming at America’s Dental Meeting (the ADA Annual Session). We have had a great response to our standalone New Dentist Conference. Just this year, we had 375 registrants, making it one of the largest in the past few years. But in 2015, in Washington, DC, new dentists are invited to meet in conjunction with America’s Dental Meeting. We see this as a way to potentially increase new dentist attendance and participation and really give new dentists the benefits of two meetings in one. The NDC will develop the content for the new dentist program while the Council on ADA Sessions (CAS) takes the lead on logistics and meeting planning. It is my privilege to serve as the NDC liaison to the CAS so I hope to provide regular reports on our progress. ___________________________________
“As a committee, we also identified key new dentist issues including student debt and financial management, employment opportunities, reimbursement and third-party issues, preventative care and access to care, workforce issues, and group practice trends.” __________________________________ Thank you for the support and confidence you have placed in me. If you ever need to contact me, my email is cmhasty@ gmail.com.
September 2014 • 9
Call 1-800-232-3826 for a free practice appraisal, a $5,000 value!
AFTCO is the oldest and largest dental practice transition consulting firm in the United States. AFTCO assists dentists with associateships, purchasing and selling of practices, and retirement plans. We are there to serve you through all stages of your career.
Ruximar Linkous, D.D.S. has acquired the practice of
Stephen C. Hutchins, D.D.S. Canton, Georgia AFTCO is pleased to have represented both parties in this transition.
Helping dentists buy & sell practices for over 40 years.
10 • September 2014
WWW.AFTCO.NET
SPOTLIGHT ON GDA ENDORSED SERVICES AND THEIR BENEFITS:
CLAIMS MADE OR OCCURRENCE MALPRACTICE COVERAGE? Your malpractice insurance policy is one of your most important purchases. Being informed when choosing a company and policy type can have long-lasting effects throughout your career. Use these tips offered by GDA-endorsed Medical Protective about choosing a company and coverage.
Step 1: Choose A Company
Price is just one factor when choosing a malpractice insurer. Companies differ significantly in financial stability, breadth of coverage, strength of defense, and other factors. Before you choose a company, ask if they offer: • Claims-made AND occurrence policies • Pure consent to settle without any exceptions, hammer clauses, or binding arbitration • Special products for new graduates that combine low rates of claims-made coverage with the benefits of occurrence coverage • Free “tail” coverage at retirement if insured for one year regardless of age • A risk management team dedicated to education rather than rolled into marketing, claims, or underwriting • Defense expertise from insuring a wide spectrum of health care providers
Give GDIS a try and see if Medical Protective can SAVE YOU MONEY on your current coverage! Call (800) 432-4357 and ask for a FREE QUICK QUOTE. Visit www.MyGDIS. com for more details on all the coverages GDIS offers to dentists.
(P.S. Medical Protective can answer “yes” to each of these questions.)
Step 2: Choose A Policy
There are two main types of malpractice insurance policies: occurrence and claimsmade. At the most basic level, the policy types differ in how coverage is triggered: • Occurrence coverage responds to a claim based on when the dental treatment occurred, regardless of when the claim is actually made against you. As long as the incident occurred during the policy period, your occurrence policy will respond according to the terms and conditions of the policy — even if the claim is made after the policy period expires. For example, if a claim is made in 2012 based on treatment rendered in 2010, the 2010 occurrence policy responds. • Claims-made coverage responds to claims based on when the claim is made against an insured. For example, if a claim is made in 2012, based on treatment rendered in 2010, the 2012 claims-made policy responds, as long as the incident occurred after the policy’s retroactive date. The policy’s retroactive date is the date after which treatment must occur to trigger coverage. Selecting your policy type is one of the most significant decisions you’ll make when buying professional liability coverage! With occurrence coverage, you receive a separate set of limits every year you have the coverage. Also, occurrence policy limits remain in place after the end of the policy period to pay claims arising from incidents occurring during the policy period. In contrast, with claims-made coverage, only
the then-current policy limits are available to pay claims made during the policy period, which can result in faster exhaustion of limits if many claims are filed in the same policy period. Because claims-made policies do not cover claims made after the termination of the policy, you must secure “tail” coverage (an extended reporting endorsement) at the termination of the policy. This can happen in many situations such as leaving practice, taking a significant amount of time off, entering a practice that requires you to join a group policy, or moving to a state that will not cover your practice from the prior state. Tail coverage is generally expensive, although some companies will provide free tail coverage in the event of death, disability, or retirement. Occurrence policies do not require tail coverage. Another decision you will have to make is your policy limits. The most common limits for new dentists today are $1 million / $3 million, which means a $1 million limit per claim, and a $3 million limit per policy year. GDA-endorsed Medical Protective offers a variety of limit options above $1 million / $3 million. You may be surprised how inexpensive an increase in policy limits may be.
Step 3: Apply for Coverage
Dentists may apply for coverage with Medical Protective via the Georgia Dental Insurance Services web site. Visit www.MyGDIS. com then click on Professional Liability to start this process. Please call GDIS at (800) 432-4357 if you would like a FREE QUICK QUOTE on coverage or simply have coverage questions.
September September 2014 2014 •• 11 11
GA-JUN-2014.pdf
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POLITICAL ISSUES FROM THE DENTAL POINT OF VIEW:
ATTENDING A LAW DAY CAN HELP CREATE GOOD BILLS What is a GDA LAW Day? Every week during the legislative session, the GDA invites dentists, dental students, and dental spouses to the Capitol on a particular day. Participants receive position papers on key issues and pending legislation prior to their day. After breakfast, usually located in a conference room with a view of the Gold Dome (the view above was taken at a February 2014 LAW Day), participants receive an orientation on the legislative process and updates on key legislation. Participants are then charged with talking to key legislators and their own legislators about these critical issues. Participants may also tag along with a larger group that has an experienced spokesperson, but everyone is encouraged to speak up. It doesn’t hurt. Just say ‘ahhhh’ and it will be over in a moment. The GDA’s enviable record of legislative success is directly attributable to the dentists and Alliance members, and, since 2008, students from the College of Dental Medicine at Georgia Regents University, who attend GDA LAW Days. Each week during the session, the GDA counts on these volunteers to speak with their legislators and positively impact issues affecting dental practices across Georgia. These volunteers
Receive updates on the 2015 legislative session in your inbox! The GDA sends an email weekly during the session with news about Gold Dome happenings. Don’t miss this valuable insight! Email Delaine Hall at hall@gadental.org to be added to the Gold Dome Insider email list.
deserve the appreciation of all dentists for their dedication to the profession and the patients of this state. If you want to make a difference for your patients and profession, attend a LAW Day, and bring a colleague with you. At right are the days scheduled for next year. GDA dentists may attend on any date regardless of the district assignment. All participants receive one hour of continuing education for the education phase of the program. Your district may have other incentives, such as CE discounts. Contact Phyllis Willich to reserve a spot! Call (404) 636-7553 or (800) 432-4357, or email willich@gadental.org.
Return of the District Challenge
The GDA was forced to cancel two LAW Days in 2014 due to icy weather. The GDA hopes that the weather is more cooperative in 2015, and looks forward to seeing a record turnout at the Capitol. Because of the cancellations, the GDA could not name a District Challenge Champion — that is, the district with the highest percentage of their membership that attended a LAW Day. That challenge is back for 2015! If you have attended a LAW Day before, come back. If you have never attended, give it a try. And if you are so inclined, if you are coming to a LAW Day, invite along a colleague. The GDA office knows of one recent instance where a member dentist invited a non-member colleague to a LAW Day. The non-member valued the event and paid their organized dentistry dues the next day. They have paid dues each year since. LAW Days can make a difference in many ways.
2015 LAW Day Schedule Jan 28: Students from the GRU College of Dental Medicine Feb 4: Georgia Dental Society and North Georgia Dental Society Feb. 11: Southwestern District and Alliance Dental Spouses Feb. 18: Northern District (Central & Southern Branches) Feb. 25: Northern District (Hall County Branch) Feb 26: Southeastern District* Mar. 4: Northwestern District Mar. 11: Eastern District Mar. 18: Western and Northern Districts (Northern and Eastern Branches) Mar. 25: Central District *This is a special Thursday-only LAW Day. The rest of the LAW Days are scheduled for Wednesday mornings. Email willich@gadental.org to RSVP.
September 2014 • 13
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NEWS FROM YOUR AMERICAN DENTAL ASSOCIATION:
CENTER FOR PROFESSIONAL SUCCESS HITS VALUE TARGET The American Dental Association Center for Professional Success launched in September 2013 as a way to address members’ needs when they have questions about the day-today tasks of running a business. The Center has evolved into a valuable source of articles, continuing education opportunities, financial calculators, and much more, with hundreds of dentist members logging on every day. ADA staff members maintain and update the web site on a daily basis, with member input from the Council on Dental Practice and its advisory committee to the Center for Professional Success. They rely on market research and advanced analytics as they continue to grow the content and products on the web site, which include written articles and videos. One of the Center’s newest features is the ADA Oral Pathologist App. This chairside reference to oral pathology conditions can assist dentists with confirming their diagnoses and considering potential treatment options. The content for the Oral Pathologist app was developed and written by Dr. Michael
Have you visited an American Dental Association web site lately? The ADA has revamped the look and functionality for all their sites, including ADA.org, MouthHealthy. com, the ADA store, ADA Annual Session, the Center for Professional Success, ADA Business Resources, and the ADA Foundation. Visit www.ada.org and search for ‘new web site’ to find all of the links.
Kahn, chair and tenured professor of the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. Dentists using the app, which costs $59.99 from the Android and Apple app stores, can search more than 200 conditions by name or enter clinical observations into the app to obtain a differential diagnosis. The Center also offers guidance for new dentists and associates on how to handle and understand employment agreements. Employment Agreements: The Devil’s in the Details, alerts employee or employer dentists to the key legal terms they should understand before they sign an agreement. Members can also download the free white paper “Dentist Employment Agreements: A Guide to Key Legal Provisions.” Dentists may also use the several financial calculators offered on the web site, for instance, to assess the cash flow generated by their practices and determine how long it would take to get a return on an operatory investment. Dentists may also calculate basic loan term, loan payment, debt load, and overhead. The ultimate goal of the Center for Professional Success is to provide specific and accurate answers to questions members have as they balance their professional lives with their personal goals. “The ADA has always been a strong resource for practice management support, but the Center highlights other learning opportunities and the work / life balance dentists say they want. The web site itself is continuously evolving with new articles, white papers, apps, and tools,” said Dr. James Willey, senior director of the ADA Practice Institute. “Our goal is simple: to help all ADA members achieve the personal and professional success they desire.”
For example, the practice portion of the Center features several articles on operating more efficiently. Some of the topics addressed include: • Patients and financing of dental care • Guidelines for referring dental patients • Tips on steering clear of sales scams • Managing effective team meetings • Keys to a good on-hold message system • Minimizing canceled appointments • Long Term Care patients and fees • Tips on spotting employee fraud • Safeguarding practice computers Log on today and start succeeding with your American Dental Association!
September 2014 • 15
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HELPING DENTISTS LEAD PERSONALLY & PROFESSIONALLY
CUSTOMER SERVICE YOU CAN TAKE TO THE BANK On an episode of “Undercover Boss,” Joe DePinto, the CEO of 7-Eleven, went undercover at a 7-Eleven store in Shirley, NY, to find out why they sell more cups of coffee than any other franchise. Shortly after arriving at work at 5:30 a.m., Joe discovered the secret of their success: an energetic, outgoing 7-Eleven employee named Delores. Because she has worked at 7-Eleven for more than 18 years, Delores knows many of her customers by name. Her official job is to run the coffee station, keeping the area tidy and the coffee pots full, but her value to the company far exceeds the worth that her job title alone would imply. Every day, hundreds of customers pour through their location’s doors, filling up their coffee cups, and exchanging a few words with Delores. She might ask a customer how his job is going, how her family is, or what he thinks the weather might do, but with each interaction, the math proves that Delores is moving coffee. A lot of it. It seems that people just like coming to a place where they feel welcome and appreciated. Go figure, huh? It’s amazing the difference just one person can make. It’s also amazing how many businesses aren’t aware of the impact their frontline people can have on their bottom line. In some cases, such as Delores’, cus-
Share your favorite leadership quotes, essays, books, and your Most Memorable Mentor with the GDA! Email Delaine Hall at hall@ gadental.org, share your thoughts on the GDA Facebook page, or Tweet at @YourGDA.
tomer contact results in spectacular success. But, in other cases, maybe not so much. I first met Andrea at the Buford location of Mega Bank where I have my business checking account. (That’s not their real name, but you already knew that, didn‘t you?) Andrea was always friendly and helpful when she worked as an assistant branch manager. I enjoyed seeing her and got to know her by name. __________________________________
“It’s amazing the difference just one person can make. It’s also amazing how many businesses aren’t aware of the impact their frontline people can have on their bottom line.”
___________________________________ When she got her own branch to manage, though, all of that changed. There was a new sheriff in town and by golly, things were going to be run right. I found that anytime I went to the new location, which, by the way, was much closer to my home than the Buford branch, a teller would find some minute problem with my deposit, handing it back with a smug look on her face as if to say, “Get it right, and then we’ll think about taking your money.” Mind you, I had been doing business with their bank for well over 10 years. It just didn’t seem to matter. Here’s the really interesting thing about this story, though. Instead of sweating it out, trying to please the powers that be at that one location, I would just drive to one of their other locations further away and make the deposit there. And get this, EVERY deposit rejected by Andrea’s branch as being
incorrect was always accepted by another one of their branches without a problem! Now, the people who don’t know how money is made or where they get their paycheck will read this story and think that all the rest of the bank locations needed to get their acts together like Andrea’s bank. But customer-service-savvy people will instantly recognize the tremendous blunders Andrea made. 1) She made doing business difficult. For some customers, it might well have made more sense to do business with the competition right across the street. 2) She made doing business unpleasant. You can’t always say “Yes” to customers, but you don’t have to make them feel like you enjoy saying “No,” do you? In my opinion, Andrea couldn’t have done more damage to her bank if she had been a corporate saboteur. For all I know, she might have been. By the way, Andrea is gone now, and guess what? Wonder of wonders, we no longer have a problem making deposits at that branch. What a huge difference one person can make! The question you have to ask yourself is, on which side of the customer service line do you fall? Are you ensuring that people enjoy their time with you, or are you silently sabotaging your team? © 2014 Charles Marshall. Charles Marshall is a nationally known humorous motivational speaker and author. Visit www.MPowerResources.net or contact him via e-mail at charles@charlesmarshall.net.
September 2014 • 17
A DENTISTS’ GUIDE TO HOW THE ADA, GDA, & DISTRICTS HELP YOU AT EVERY PRACTICE STAGE Starting and maintaining a practice, or being an associate in a dental practice in Georgia, is a rewarding but challenging experience. While most dentists would consider the practice of dentistry largely a professional pursuit confined to the oral cavity and supporting structures, running a dental practice involves dealing with numerous legal, 18 • September 2014
personnel, personal development, political, and business matters that dentists may not have previously needed or wanted to ever consider. This guide offers a look at why membership is a bright idea that pays off at every stage of a dentist’s career. From helping dentists stay up-to-date on regulatory and
practice issues, plan for retirement, network and learn, protect the doctor / patient relationship, and uphold the educational standards of the profession, your American Dental Association, Georgia Dental Association, and districts are in your corner. For more in-depth guidance, the GDA web site www.gadental.org is always open!
Advocacy Pathways
LAW Days: One day per week during the Georgia legislative session, the GDA will host a Legislative Awareness (LAW) Day for GDA members, Alliance members, and dental students. There is breakfast, a legislative overview, and then face-to-face advocacy for your patients and profession with real, live, elected officials. This is an experience you cannot believe until you try it. You can obtain one hour of CE for the educational portion as well. See page 13 for a schedule, email Phyllis Willich at willich@gadental.org to RSVP, and bring a colleague along, too. Contact Dentist Program: Do you know a legislator as a friend, patient, or neighbor? Do you know that legislator well enough to take them to lunch, or invite them to your office, and talk to them about dentistry’s issues? Then you may want to become a Contact Dentist. During each legislative session, you may be asked to contact your legislator and communicate points about bills. Contact Patrice Williams at williams@gadental.org. Dental Health Day: Each day on the first day of the legislative session (January 12 in 2015), GDA and Alliance members gather at the Capitol to distribute dental kits to legislators and legislative staff. This is a valuable advocacy event, where the GDA starts off the session by getting legislators to think about oral health! Save the date for 2015. GADPAC: The GDA Political Action Committee is a non-profit, non-partisan organization. Voluntary PAC contributions from GDA dentists and Alliance members are given to dental- and patient-friendly candidates. GDA members can make donations to GADPAC via their dues statements. Franklin Club membership will be given to any GDA dentist who contributes $100 or more to the PAC beyond the $160 amount suggested on the dues statements. Franklin Club members receive a special lapel pin. Visit www. TheToothParty.com for more details.
her license sanctioned if he or she serves as an officer or member or is employed by any corporate entity other than a professional association, a professional corporation, a limited liability partnership, or a limited liability company while engaging in the practice of dentistry. If a dentist is an officer, member, or employee of a limited liability partnership, all members must be licensed dentists and all professional services must be delivered by and professional judgment made by licensed dentists. See O.C.G.A. §43-11-47(a)(7)(A).
CE & Social Events
Annual Meeting: The 2015 meeting is at the Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort in Amelia Island, Florida, (that pretty place below) July 23-26. General Chairman Dr. Max Ferguson and his crew of meeting chairs are cooking up great events! See www.MeetGDA. com for all your meeting news. District Events: The seven GDA districts are dynamic organizations that offer bigname-speaker continuing education, OSHA training courses, and legislative receptions just to name a few. See the calendar at www. gadental.org under the green GDA Services button for a full listing of events. New Dentist Events: The GDA has a vibrant New Dentist program headed by Dr. Katie Garvin. This group hosts events within the districts offering networking and socializing opportunities. See the calendar at www. gadental.org under the green GDA Services button for event news or email Dr. Garvin at katiemgarvin@gmail.com.
Alliance Activities: The GDA Alliance is a dynamic group of dental spouses who support GDA advocacy, dental well-being, and Dental Health Education activities. They offer a stellar calendar of events throughout the year for dental spouses and GDA dentists. See www.GDAalliance.com for details on upcoming events, such as the Well-Being Retreat, Central District Halloween Party and Hay Ride, and the Holiday Party at the Peachtree Golf Club.
Economic Issues
Excise Tax: To offset the cost of implementing the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, Congress imposed a 2.3% excise tax on manufacturers of medical devices, including dental materials, products, and supplies. The GDA and ADA believe nothing in the tax will require dentists to file any documents with the IRS. However, dentists are likely to feel an impact financially as prices may increase on medical devices purchased for the dental practice. The ADA provides an overview of the tax at www.ada.org (search for excise tax). Financial Planning Assistance: As part of the GDA / UBS endorsement relationship, Wile Consulting Group at UBS offers several complimentary tools, resources, and reviews to GDA members for their practice and family.
Guide to Member Services Continued on page 20
2015 Annual Meeting
Business Entities
Georgia law allows certain professionals, including dentists, to join together in or be employed by various corporate entities. The benefit of selecting these corporate entities is to partially limit the liability that shareholders or members have for professional liability. Furthermore, certain tax benefits and consequences result from the business structure chosen. However, a dentist may have his or
September 2014 • 19
Guide to Member Services Continued from page 19
The UBS Financial Goal Analysis provides a roadmap of long-term goals for you and your family. The engagement includes three conversations with a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional, and an extensive and interactive review of the plan. Concerned about future health care costs and what to expect from Medicare? Wile Consulting Group has access to propriety reporting to determine your future Medicare premiums, copays, deductibles, and additional costs. This tool has helped pre-retirees understand their health care expenses and put a plan in place to feel confident in retirement.
A plethora of theories around collecting Social Security exist. Wile Consulting Group at UBS provides advice from a proprietary Social Security Benefits Estimator, which quantifies various options for receiving your lifetime benefits. This assessment calculates and compares your methods for collecting early, waiting, spousal benefits, and hybrid approaches. UBS has several resources for reviewing your practice retirement plan. As part of the GDA / UBS relationship, the Wile Consulting Group will compare your plan fees, design, benefits, investment policy statement, and more. A risk management review can help answer questions around the appropriate amount of protection, prudent use of cash value, and planning for long-term care. We comprehensively review current policies and help to educate and make recommendations around your options for life insurance and planning for long-term care. State Use Tax: In 2004, the Georgia Department of Revenue began enforcing a 1951-era law that requires businesses to pay a use tax on items purchased from an out-of-state vendor that did not collect Georgia sales tax. If you complied with the Georgia Department of Revenue request for annual filing for payment of the use tax, remember to complete the appropriate form (ST-3) for payment. If you have questions about the use tax, contact the Georgia Department of Revenue at (404) 417-6436 or www.etax.dor.ga.gov. Patient Collections: In an ideal world, patients would always provide their correct, updated insurance information at point of service. Carriers would always process and respond to claims filed within 45 days. Patients would always pay their balances within 30 days of receiving their first bill. Unfortunately the world is far from ideal. How your practice manages its receivables and follow up has a huge impact on profitability. Consider utilizing a vendor that provides third party follow up on unresolved insurance claims and patient accounts for a fixed fee per account on claims and accounts that aren’t paid promptly and require this additional service. An “early out” collection agency can afford to be diplomatic and inexpensive, so that younger receivables can be assigned for 3rd party collections and recoverability increased. This can result in increased collections at a lower cost and without loss of the doctor / patient relation-
20 • September 2014
ship. The GDA endorses Transworld Systems to provide your practice with better tools for accounts receivable, debt recovery, and past due accounts. Call (404) 538-6099 or visit www.transworldsystems.com/gda.html. PCI-Compliance: PCI Compliance is a set of security practices agreed upon by Payment Card Industry Standards Council members and applied to merchants through their agreements with their credit card provider. The standards focus on protecting credit card numbers and deterring identify theft and are required of every merchant that accepts credit cards as a form of payment. The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI-DSS) is a list of 12 requirements that includes installing and maintaining a protective firewall, using anti-virus software, and encrypting the transmission of cardholder data, among others. You should discuss PCIDSS with your payment gateway company. If you are working with TransFirst, the vendor endorsed by the GDA to enable your practice to accept credit cards and checks, you are already PCI compliant! With TransFirst all you must do to stay compliant at this time is to complete an annual PCI Questionnaire.
Environmental Practice Issues
Biomedical Waste: The Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) regulates the disposal of biomedical waste. Under current EPD rules, subject to certain exceptions, dental offices that generate or handle biomedical waste must comply with rules regarding waste generation, storage, transfer, treatment, and disposal. The rules provide for an exemption from certain parts of the rule for dental offices that generate less than 100 pounds per month of biomedical waste. However, the exemption from the rule does not extend to storage requirements for such waste. (Dental practices are responsible and can be held liable for biomedical waste from creation through destruction.) Proper storage and handling of biomedical waste for a dental office includes labeling of trashcans, use of appropriately labeled red bags, and occasionally decontamination prior to disposal. Usually if medical sharps have been decontaminated, they can then be disposed of in the regular garbage. Dental practices should also contact their local landfill to see if they will accept biomedical waste and what procedures are required for its disposal. For what constitutes biomedical waste and for
procedures on handling such waste, see the EPD web site at http://epd.georgia.gov.
handle lead waste. Visit www.ada.org for additional details.
Amalgam Waste: Georgia law does not regulate how dental practices dispose of dental byproducts that contain mercury, including amalgam. This is due to the voluntary efforts made by dental practices and communicated to the federal government by organized dentistry. The American Dental Association (ADA) has created and the GDA has endorsed the ADA’s Best Management Practices (BMPs) for Amalgam Waste. These are simple steps dental practices can voluntarily take to help reduce the amount of amalgam waste being released into the environment. Such practices include recycling amalgam waste, using certain containers to collect amalgam waste, and learning how dental practices should and should not dispose of such waste. See www.ada.org to find the BMPs as well as a list of amalgam recyclers.
Licensure Issues
Amalgam Recovery: ADA Business Resources has chosen HealthFirst as its endorsed amalgam recovery service provider. ADA members have the exclusive benefit of significant savings, a lifetime warranty on Rebec Environmental amalgam separators, and an indemnification for wastewater pollution fines. Contact HealthFirst at (888) 963-6787 or visit www.healthfirst.com/ada. X-Rays: Dental offices may use the same fixer solution to process x-rays that photo processors use to develop photographs. Compared to commercial photo processors, however, dental offices generate a small amount of fixer solution waste. Used fixer solution contains silver thiosulphate complexes, which are stable and contain virtually no free silver ion. It is generally accepted that silver in used fixer solutions has little, if any, adverse environmental effect. Nevertheless, the ADA encourages minimizing and recycling such waste. Visit www.ada.org for additional details. X-Rays / Lead Recycling: Dental x-ray film packets are packaged in lead foil to prevent the film from being exposed. After an x-ray film packet is opened, the lead foil packaging should be collected and recycled through a licensed facility. Lead aprons and collars are used in dental offices to minimize patient exposure to radiation during x-rays. These aprons and collars are typically used for several years. According to the ADA, lead aprons and collars that are no longer used should be given to a recycler licensed to
Licensure: Georgia law states that no person may engage in the practice of dentistry without first obtaining a license from the Georgia Board of Dentistry (Board). O.C.G.A. §4311-40 and Board Rules 150-3-.01 and 1503-.04 outline the requirements for obtaining initial licensure to practice in Georgia. The Board may sanction dentists who practice dentistry without a current valid license. Dental License Renewal: Dentists and dental hygienists must next renew their licenses by December 31, 2015. Dentists are required to obtain 40 hours of approved continuing education (22 hours for dental hygienists) as well as a current CPR certification by this date. Dentists and dental hygienists may only obtain online continuing education for up to one-half of the total hours required for renewal. Visit the GDA web site at www. gadental.org and the Board web site at http:// gbd.georgia.gov for answers to CE questions.
Volunteer Today
Charitable Clinics: There are dozens of clinics in Georgia in need of volunteers. See the list of clinics at the GDA web site www.gadental.org. Dental Health Month: Every February, the GDA Council on Dental Health conducts educational and clinical care activities that require volunteers, especially around Give Kids a Smile Day, the first Friday each February. Georgia Mission of Mercy: The next GMOM charitable dental clinic is scheduled for June 18-21, 2015, at the Georgia National Fairgrounds & Agricenter in Perry. Watch for emails on how to sign up as a GDA volunteer. School Screening: Children entering Georgia public schools for the first time are required to undergo basic ear, eye, nutrition, and dental exams. Become a free school screening volunteer! Contact the GDA office for details.
Responsibility for Other Licenses: If a dental practice hires additional dentists, the hiring dentist may be held legally and professionally responsible for any individual who practices dentistry but does not hold a current license from the Board. Dentists must ensure that their licenses and the licenses of dentists and dental hygienists working in a practice are current. Relying on others to submit documents to keep licenses current will not be a valid defense to a charge of unlicensed practice. Visit the Board’s web site for details on obtaining a license to practice dentistry in Georgia: http://gbd.georgia.gov.
Nursing Home Initiative: The GDA wants to teach staff at every Georgia nursing care facility about good oral health care for residents. Volunteer as a trainer! Contact the GDA office.
Sedation Permits: Under Board of Dentistry rules, a dentist renewing a sedation permit must take 4 hours of continuing education every 2 years in pharmacology, anesthesia, emergency medicine, or sedation. According to the Board, completion of ACLS does NOT count toward those 4 hours. While ACLS / PALS counts toward the dentist’s total 40 hours that must be earned for license renewal, it does not satisfy the 4 CE hours necessary to renew a sedation permit. The intent of the rule is to advance knowledge of sedation and ensure competency in preventing problems during sedation. ACLS advances knowledge in how to handle an emergent situation during sedation, not necessarily how to prevent it.
Licensure by Credentials: Georgia law does not currently permit the Board to grant licenses by reciprocity, except in limited circumstances for dentists who wish to serve as teachers or instructors. Instead, dentists who are licensed in other states for a minimum of five years may obtain a license by credentials to practice in this state. Requirements may be found in Board Rule 150-7-.04.
Special Olympics, Special Smiles: GDA volunteers are needed annually to provide dental screenings and oral health education to athletes taking part in the Summer Games in May and bowling event in August.
Guide to Member Services Continued on page 22
September 2014 • 21
Guide to Member Services Continued from page 21
Marketing Issues
Advertising: Georgia law and the ADA Code of Professional Conduct address advertising by dentists. The ADA Code of Professional Conduct states that no dentist “shall advertise or solicit patients in any form or communication in a manner that is false or misleading in any material respect.” However, Georgia law and Board Rule are a little more specific. Board Rule 150-10-.01 is entitled “Fraudulent, Misleading or Deceptive Advertising,” and provides some guidance to dentists on such issues as use of a dentist’s name and title, designation of specialty, fees for services, use of patients’ names, and some explanation of what constitutes misleading advertising. Specialties: Rule 150-11-.01 states that the Board of Dentistry recognizes nine specialties of dental practice: Dental public health, endodontics, oral pathology, oral and maxillofacial surgery, orthodontics, pediatric dentistry, periodontics, prosthodontics, and oral and maxillofacial radiology. (Implantology and cosmetic dentistry are not recognized specialties.) A definition of each of these specialties is provided in the rule. The rule does not prohibit the performance of the specialty functions by those dentists who have not completed the ADA practice guideline educational requirements, as long as the dentist does not hold himself or herself out as a specialist in the particular area of dentistry. For example, a general dentist may advertise with such statements as “John Doe, D.D.S., General Dentist, Practice Limited to Endodontics.” Such a statement does not imply that the dentist is an endodontist. Coupon Web Sites: The Board of Dentistry has a rule against fee splitting. The rule provides that “[a] dentist shall not give rebates or split fees with a referral source.” Fee splitting generally refers to a situation where a dentist pays a fee to a third party for referrals on a per-patient basis or a percentage basis. The Board of Dentistry is currently working on providing more direct guidance on this issue; however, until that time, dentists should note that under the current rule it is possible that social coupon-type marketing models may be perceived as fee splitting. Recently, such companies as Groupon 22 • September 2014
and LivingSocial have begun offering contracts to dentists that take into consideration the prohibition against fee splitting (www. gertsberg.com). Nevertheless, dentists should remain vigilant regarding signing any such contracts with a third party.
Numbers: NPI / DEA
National Provider Identifiers (NPI): NPIs serve as the single identifier for health care providers to access a patient’s health care plans. NPIs were adopted by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services in an attempt to improve electronic transactions. All HIPAA-covered entities are required to use NPIs. An NPI does not replace the DEA number required of health care providers to prescribe controlled substances. Additional information and an application for an NPI can be obtained from www.cms.gov. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA): Federal law requires that any health care practitioner desiring to prescribe controlled substances to obtain a DEA permit. Unless otherwise prohibited by the Board of Dentistry, any licensed dentist may apply for a DEA permit to prescribe controlled substances. DEA registrations must be renewed every three years. Federal and State laws maintain a list of drugs that are classified as controlled substances according to certain schedules. Requirements for registered practitioners prescribing controlled substances can be found in O.C.G.A. §16-13-41. An application for a DEA permit can be obtained from www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov.
Patient Issues
Ethics and Peer Review: The GDA Peer Review and Ethics programs are an alternative dispute resolution program that has been successful in resolving patient disputes over the quality of care or manner in which care is provided. This program can assist the dentist with complaint resolution instead of involving the patient and dentist in a legal or Board of Dentistry investigative situation. When a peer review complaint is filed, a dentist serving as a mediator will contact the patient and dentist in an attempt to resolve the matter. If the mediator is unable to resolve the dispute, the parties must then agree to proceed to the peer review process. The peer review process consists of a clinical examination by independent dentists. Patients may obtain peer review forms from the GDA office. Under the GDA Constitution and Bylaws, members
are required to participate in the peer review and ethics review processes as a condition of GDA membership. Health Records: The Georgia Health Records Act holds that dentists must provide a complete copy of a patient’s record within a reasonable period of time after a written request is submitted to the dentist. Certain exceptions are made for those records that relate to mental health. The patient records may be released to the patient or any other provider or person designated by the patient. The Act states that while patients have rights of access, the ownership of the records remains with the dentist. While the Act establishes a fee schedule for the costs of copying and delivering the records to the patient, note that HIPAA prohibits covered entities from charging for search and retrieval of dental records.
Get Data Breach Coverage from Your GDIS The breach of a patient’s Protected Health Information can result in notification costs, negative publicity costs, and possible HIPAA fines—a huge expense! The purchase of cyber liability coverage from Georgia Dental Insurance Services and The Hartford could mitigate that concern for your practice. A GDIS representative can help you determine the cost of this valuable coverage for your practice. Call your GDIS at (800) 432-4357 or (404) 636-7553.
Records Retention / Disposal: Under Georgia law, dental practices are responsible for dental records from creation through destruction. The law outlines the steps which dental practices must follow when discarding records containing a patient’s health condition, account details, or information that could be associated with a particular patient. This includes photographs, Social Security numbers, disability information, driver’s identification numbers, dates of birth, and under certain circumstances addresses and telephone numbers. Dental practices must take one of these steps prior to disposal of a patient’s record: (1) shred the document, (2) erase the patient’s information from the record, (3) modify personal information to make it unreadable, or (4) take action the dental practice reasonably believes would ensure that no unauthorized person will have access to the patient’s information. Injectable Pharmacologicals: Before treating a patient with injectable pharmacologics such as Restylane, Fillers, or Botox, Georgia dentists must complete a 21-hour Board of Dentistry-approved course that includes, at a minimum, advanced instruction in the anatomy of head and neck, neurophysiology, patient selection, pharmacological effect and contraindications, and management of complications. Once a dentist has taken an approved course, he or she should obtain a certificate of completion from the course administrator. Within 30 days of completing the course, the dentist must submit to the Board a certified copy of the certificate of course completion along with an application to be placed on the injectable pharmacologics registry. The administration of an injectable pharmacologic must be performed in connection with a dental procedure and in a dental treatment setting. Details on complying with the injectable pharmacologics rule and the registry requirements can be found on the Board of Dentistry’s web site at: http://gbd.georgia.gov > Applications and Forms > Guidelines for Registration of Injectables. Terminating a Patient: Board rules state that a dentist-patient relationship is created if a dentist has provided dental treatment to a patient at least once within the last year. Once a dentist-patient relationship is created, Georgia law prohibits improper termination of the dentist-patient relationship. Termination means that the dentist is unavailable to provide treatment to the patient when: (1) the dentist is permanently closed for a
period in excess of 30 days, or (2) the dentist discontinues treatment of a particular patient for any reason although the dentist continues to provide treatment to other patients at the office location. Certain requirements must be met before a dentist may end treatment. The dentist who is the custodian of the patient’s dental records must mail notice of the termination of the dentist’s relationship to the patient. The notice must contain the effective date of termination, the date the dentist-patient relationship may resume (if applicable), the location the patient can receive emergency dental care for at least 30 days following the date of termination, a statement of what additional dental treatment is required, and a means for the patient to obtain a copy of their dental records. Termination of a dental services provider agreement does not relieve a dentist from the doctor-patient relationship or the prohibition against abandonment. See Board Rule 150-8-.01(q). Patient Information and Privacy: HIPAA, or The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, requires that “covered entities” comply with certain patient privacy and patient information security measures. With regard to dentists, covered entities are defined as those entities that electronically file insurance claims for dental services. Once a dental practice files one claim electronically, the entire dental practice must be compliant with HIPAA privacy and security requirements.
The requirements that dental offices must satisfy under HIPAA are numerous. The GDA has several articles on HIPAA at www.gadental.org > For Members > Regulatory Issues. Dentist may purchase a comprehensive manual covering HIPAA and OSHA regulations from the ADA Catalog (Code K017) at www.adacatalog.com.
Personnel Issues
Dental Hygiene Supervision: To ensure patient safety Georgia law requires that dental hygienists obtain a license prior to and only practice under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist, with limited exceptions. Direct supervision means that a licensed dentist is in the dental office or treatment facility, personally diagnoses the condition to be treated, personally authorizes the procedures, and remains in the dental office or treatment facility while the dental hygienist performs the procedures. The dentist must examine the patient prior to dismissal. Dentists employing or utilizing a licensed dental hygienist must verify that the dental hygienist’s license is current. Licensure verification for dental hygienists can be obtained from the Georgia Board of Dentistry web site http://gbd.georgia.gov.
Guide to Member Services Continued on page 25
September 2014 • 23
4/7!
2 d e e n u o y fo in IS D G d Find GDA, GMOM, an
Stay in touch with your GDA online! THE GDA WEB SITE: www.gadental.org _____ PLUS! _____ GMOM 2015 www.GeorgiaMissionofMercy.org GDA ANNUAL MEETING www.MeetGDA.com GADPAC AND ADVOCACY www.TheToothParty.com GDA ALLIANCE SPOUSES www.GDAalliance.com GEORGIA DENTAL INSURANCE SERVICES www.MyGDIS.com FACEBOOK.COM Search for Georgia Dental Association TWITTER.COM Follow @YourGDA and @MeetGDA
24 • September 2014
Guide to Member Services Continued from page 23
Dental Assistant Supervision: Dental assistants are permitted by Georgia law to perform certain acts in assisting licensed dentists. Board Rule 150-9-.01 outlines the duties that a dental assistant may provide. Under no circumstances may a dental assistant perform any procedure delineated as a dental hygiene treatment by law or rule. Expanded Duties of Dental Assistants: State law and Board Rule permit dental assistants who have received additional training to perform additional duties. Expanded duties assistants have their scope of practice limited to those acts which are set forth in a certificate obtained from a Board-approved educational program. Board Rule 150-9-.02 lists the duties that an expanded duties dental assistant may perform. The GDA offers expanded duties training courses. For more information on the courses, visit the GDA web site at www.gadental.org or call (404) 636-7553 or (800) 432-4357. Personnel and Laser Use: Neither dental hygienists nor dental assistants are permitted to utilize laser equipment, laser technology intraorally, micro etching, or air polishing equipment or technologies within Georgia dental practices. See Board Rule 150-9-.03. Employee Handbook: Georgia law permits at-will employment relationships, meaning that either party may terminate the relationship without cause at any time. An effective method of defining the employment relationship would be through an employee handbook. Employee handbooks can also outline office policies and procedures, including working hours, safety procedures, performance reviews, and harassment and discrimination policies. The American Dental Association sells handbook kits (Code J670) for $134.95 at www.adacatalog.com. Criminal Background Checks: These checks are an effective way to learn about the criminal history of prospective employees and possibly prevent future claims of negligent hiring. Such background checks can reveal information including convictions involving controlled substances or theft from a previous employer. Prior to obtaining a criminal background check, employers must obtain a signed release from the prospective employ-
ee. Georgia businesses that wish to conduct background checks must use the Georgia Applicant Processing Service, or GAPS (www. ga.cogentid.com) and obtain a GAPS account number. Select the How to Get an ORI or OAC Number when you visit the site. OSHA: The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has adopted rules and regulations that are applicable to dental practices and require taking steps to protect and communicate concerns to employees regarding exposure to certain chemical, biological, physical, and other workplace hazards. The OSHA rules and regulations requirements include employee training, container labeling, posting of data sheets and certain other warnings, providing first aid training, and creation of plans to minimize employee exposures. Specific rules for dental practices can be found at www.osha.gov. The ADA also has a manual for dental practice compliance with OSHA rules. A copy of a manual covering key HIPAA and OSHA regulations can be purchased from the ADA Catalog (Code K017) at www.adacatalog.com. Americans with Disabilities Act (AwDA): The AwDA prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in employment, transportation, public accommodation, communications, and certain governmental activities. Dental practices are most often confronted with the AwDA in employment practices, providing adequate access to dental care facilities, and appropriate accommodations for employees and patients with certain disabilities. Dental practices should contact a private attorney to ensure that their dental offices comply with the requirements of the AwDA. The U.S. Department of Labor provides additional information at www.dol.gov. Workplace Posters: The U.S. government requires employers to post the following notices. Obtain them for free from the U.S. Department of Labor web site www.dol.gov. 1) Employee Polygraph Protection 2) Equal Employment Opportunity 3) Fair Labor Standards Act 4) Job Safety and Health Protection 5) Rights Under the Family and Medical Leave Act (employers of 50+ individuals) 6) Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act. Meanwhile, the state of Georgia requires dentists to place these workplace posters:
Every GDA member receives a plaque to display in their practice that conveys pride in their membership and tells patients that GDA dentists are committed to ethics and professionalism.
1) DOL-154 (Employer Vacation) 2) DOL-4107 (Equal Pay for Equal Work) 3) DOL-810 (Unemployment Insurance). Obtain these posters at no charge from the state Department of Labor web site www. dol.state.ga.us. The state also requires you to post two Workers’ Comp notice posters: 1) WC-P1 Panel of Physicians with a list of six physicians (one must be an orthopedic surgeon and one a minority, if feasible) and 2) WCBOR Bill of Rights for the Injured Worker. Print posters from http://sbwc.georgia.gov. Homeland Security/Immigration: The U.S. Department of Homeland Security requires that every employer verify the identity and employment eligibility of every new employee at the time that employment begins. This includes all individuals employed by a dental office, but does not include independent con-
Guide to Member Services Continued on page 26
September 2014 • 25
Guide to Member Services Continued from page 25
tractors. Form I-9 was developed to verify that persons are eligible to work in the U.S. Each employee you hire must complete Form I-9 at the time he or she begins employment. Along with a completed Form I-9, each employee must also provide original documents that establish their identity and employment eligibility (acceptable documents include a U.S. passport, state driver’s license or ID card, U.S. Social Security card, and certified birth certificate. The employee may need to provide multiple documents). The employer must retain the completed form and copies of all eligibility documentation for three years from the date of hire and / or one year after the date employment ends, whichever is longer. Visit www.uscis.gov for details. The Georgia E-Verify law requires private companies in Georgia with more than 10 employees to use the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s E-Verify system. Local governments will typically not grant or renew a business license or other government certificate or permit for a private business, like a dental office, until it submits an affidavit certifying its enrollment in the E-Verify program or claims an exemption because it employs fewer than 10 employees.
Third Party Issues
Contract Analysis: The GDA contract analysis service assists member dentists in understanding dental provider agreements that dentists may be considering as part of their dental practices and can be useful when deciding whether such agreements are good business decisions. Such contract services are provided for informational purposes only and are not intended as legal advice. To have a contract analyzed, contact Melana Kopman McClatchey, Director of Contract Analysis, at mcclatchey@gadental.org, (404) 636-7553, or (800) 432-4357. Medicaid: Medicaid and PeachCare for Kids programs provide comprehensive dental care for low income children and emergency extractions for adults over the age of 21. The GDA keeps member dentists informed on important updates and staff is available to help if you or your staff have any questions or experience any problems with the program. The GDA also actively advocates for patients and providers before the state legislature. 26 • September 2014
Prior to participating in Medicaid, dentists must first enroll as a Medicaid provider. For information on enrolling as a provider, visit http://dch.georgia.gov/providers. Once a Medicaid provider number is obtained, dentists must then obtain a dental provider agreement to participate in the care management organizations (CMOs) which administer Medicaid and PeachCare. Dentists may contact the GDA office for contract review information on CMO dental provider agreements before signing any contracts. CDT 2015: The ADA released CDT 2015 in September. Buy your copy now to allow time for staff training before the codes go into effect on January 1, 2015. This publication is the only HIPAA-recognized code set for dentistry. Code changes include 15 new procedure codes, 52 revised procedure codes, and 5 deleted procedure codes. The CDT 2015 Companion: Help Guide and Training Manual educates staff on how to code dental office claims and submit them for reimbursement. The CDT Code Check app, which will be available October 1, will contain a searchable database of both the 2015 and 2014 CDT Codes; a list of new, revised, and deleted codes with tracked changes; and a favorites section for storing your most frequently used codes. To buy your CDT coding products, visit adacatalog.org or call the ADA Member Service Center at (800) 947-4746. Competition and Antitrust: Federal and state antitrust regulations apply to all health care providers, including dentists. The goal of antitrust legislation is to increase competition, reduce consumer pricing, and provide for greater availability of services and products. Therefore, dentists should avoid discussing or publicly announcing fees. The U.S. Federal Trade Commission has resources for health care providers that discuss antitrust
Considering signing a third party contract? Know what you are signing before you sign with the GDA contract analysis service. Contact Melana Kopman McClatchey, Director of Contract Analysis, at mcclatchey@ gadental.org, (404) 636-7553, or (800) 432-4357.
issues and health care services. This information can be found at www.ftc.gov. Medicare Enrollment: Dentists must choose to opt in or out of Medicare enrollment by June 1, 2015. The ADA has put together a guide to help dentists decide what is best for their practices. Find “Opting Out of the Medicare Program” and “Medicare Enrollment FAQ” at www.ada.org > Member Benefits > Legal Resources > Publications & Articles > Reimbursement. The GDA published an article in the August 2014 GDA Action that incorrectly characterized how a dentist would be affected if they opted out of Medicare and wanted to write a prescription for a Medicare patient. Please note this clarification from ADA.org: In order for Medicare to pay for prescriptions under Medicare Part D, a dentist must do one of the following: 1) Enroll as a Medicare provider; 2) Opt-out of the Medicare program; or 3) Enroll as an ordering / referring provider. As confusing as this may be, once a dentist is in the Medicare system EITHER by enrolling in OR opting out, their patients are still eligible to receive their Part D prescription drug coverage. However, if a dentist chooses to do nothing and neither opts in nor opts out, any Medicare eligible patients will have their prescription drug coverage denied for the prescriptions a dentist writes.
X-ray and General Regulatory Issues
X-ray Regulations: X-ray equipment located in dental offices is required to be registered with the state Department of Community Health prior to initial operation. An approved registration requires submission of a registration application, an approved shielding design, and an initial inspection. Dentists who relocate their offices and x-ray equipment must re-register that x-ray equipment—relocations require a new application, shielding design, and initial inspection. Due to a backlog of inspections, the Xray Unit is approximately six weeks behind in completing initial inspections. If you wish to operate the X-ray equipment sooner, you may opt to have a qualified individual perform the initial inspection at your own expense. Visit http://dch.georgia.gov (search the site for “x-ray” to find the links) for information on registering your equipment. Dental staff must have a certificate on
file stating that they have taken the appropriate course that allows them to take and develop x-rays. An inspector may ask to see your previous inspection certificates and documents related to any work that was performed on your equipment. If you purchase new equipment, you must have your x-ray equipment inspected by the state prior to using the equipment. Infection Control Guidelines: A dentist’s license can be sanctioned for failing to comply with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s recommendations for preventing the transmission of certain diseases. Visit www.cdc.gov to obtain a copy of the CDC Guidelines for Infection Control in Dental Health Care Settings, 2003. (These are the latest ones.) Search on the CDC web site for the title of the publication to find the page. Prescription Drug Monitoring: Dentists may register for the Georgia Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) to track how patients use their prescriptions and discover, among other things, if patients are drug shopping or if prescriptions for controlled substances are being issued inappropriately. Accessing this system can provide peace of mind for dentists as well as pharmacists. For step by step instructions on how to register, visit www.gadental.org > For Members > Regulatory Issues. Pharmacy Security Paper: As of July 1, 2013, dentists are no longer required to write prescriptions on security prescription paper or pads affixed with the seal of the state Board of Pharmacy. Thanks to the GDA-supported House Bill 209, prescribing dentists may now use EITHER the Pharmacy Board approved paper / pads OR prescription paper / pads that meet Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services standards. The CMS-standards paper is easier, and less expensive, to obtain. The Board of Dentistry maintains a list of prescription paper vendors on the web site http://gbd.georgia.gov. GDA members with questions about this change may contact Melana McClatchey at the GDA office at (404) 636-7553 or (800) 432-4357, or email mcclatchey@gadental.org.
Technology and Data Privacy Tips Now is a great time to review your technology to budget and plan for improvements. Here’s a checklist for often overlooked network vulnerabilities: • Are your systems up to date? Make sure all computers are running a supported operating system. Support ended for Microsoft XP in April 2014 and Windows Server 2003 support ends in July 2015. You should be running Windows 7 or higher on workstations and plan to sunset Windows Server 2003 by July 2015. • Install software and security updates when prompted. You should also have a firewall and up-to-date anti-virus programs. A firewall helps to prevent your system from being attacked, while anti-virus or anti-malware software inspects the files and programs on your system to ensure they are not infected. • Is all of your data backed up offsite? In the event of a disaster it is critical to be able to restore your data. Many practices are now using a managed online backup solution and that is a safe option. If you manage your own offsite backup, make sure all of the data is encrypted. Encryption helps protect the security and privacy of files as they are transmitted or while on your computer. Install encryption onto all laptops, mobile devices, flash drives, and back-up tapes, and encrypt emails that contain sensitive information. • Has your wireless been confirmed as PCI and HIPAA compliant? Advanced Automation has remediated a surprising number of dental offices where the practice network could be easily accessed from the patient’s wireless. • Create strong passwords by avoiding patterns such as replacing letters with numbers, capitalizing the first letter of a word, or adding a number to the end of a word. A long, complex password is a better password. Your password should include letters and numbers, use upper and lower cases, and incorporate characters such as exclamation points and dollar signs. You may want to consider using a different password for each site, especially email accounts. Hackers with access to your email can use it to initiate a “forgot my password” recovery process for other sites. You might consider using a password manager. These services generate random, long, and complex passwords for your sites and use a completely different password for each account. • Regularly review data practices. Distribute and explain data protection practices to employees. Review and revise these practices on a regular basis—at least annually. Make sure to retrain staff as changes to your data practices are made. • If your network security functions are outsourced to a third party, obtain documentation to understand how your company’s data is protected, and, when appropriate, perform on-site due diligence. It’s also important to have contract language that specifies privacy and data security expectations and grants you the right to audit the third party. To learn more, visit GDA endorsed The Hartford at www.hartforddatabreach. com, or contact GMOM technology sponsor Jon Ouzts at Advanced Automation: (770) 448-5400 x109 or www.aautomate.com.
September 2014 • 27
GDA / SOURCEBOOK 2014-15 STATE OFFICERS
Dr. Doug Torbush PRESIDENT 1000 Iris Dr SW Conyers, GA 30094 Phone: (770) 922-1666 Fax: (770) 922-6131 torbush@gmail.com
Dr. Thomas Broderick PRESIDENT ELECT 500 Eisenhower Dr Savannah GA 31406 Phone (912) 355-7022 Fax (912) 355-1415 thomas.broderick@ comcast.net
Dr. Ben Jernigan Jr. VICE PRESIDENT 315 W Ponce De Leon Ave Ste 340 Decatur GA 30030 Phone (404) 378-1466 Fax (404) 378-4925 bjerni4080@aol.com
Dr. Jay Phillips Jr. SECRETARY/TREASURER 209 24th St East Tifton GA 31794 Phone (229) 382-8711 Fax (229) 382-8714 j.phillips@tiftregional dentalgroup.com
Dr. David Bradberry EDITOR
1070 Woodlawn Dr NE Ste 250 Marietta GA 30068 Phone: (770) 977-8644 Fax: (770) 971-7953 drbradberry@ bellsouth.net
BOARD OF TRUSTEES Immediate Past President Dr. Marshall Mann Phone: (706) 235-1186 Fax: (706) 234-9007 marshallmhm@aol.com Speaker of the House Dr. Jay Harrington Phone: (478) 453-8666 Fax: (478) 452-0223 jfhdds@windstream.net Central Trustee Dr. Mike Loden Phone: (478) 923-0253 Fax: (478) 923-6906 smldmd@bellsouth.net Eastern Trustee Dr. Erik Wells Phone: (706) 548-7373 Fax: (706) 548-8088 docwells7@yahoo.com Northern Trustee Dr. Chris Adkins Phone: (770) 506-2443 Fax: (770) 506-2497 chrisadkinsdds@bellsouth.net
28 • September 2014
Northwestern Trustee Dr. Robin Reich Phone: (770) 435-5450 Fax: (770) 436-7477 robin.reich@reichdental center.com Southeastern Trustee Dr. Byron Colley Phone: (912) 355-5901 Fax: (912) 355-0735 hacolley@gmail.com Southwestern Trustee Dr. Steve Sample Phone: (229) 439-8896 Fax: (229) 435-4773 steven.sample.dds@gmail.com
Eastern District Dr. Jason Sayer Phone: (912) 638-9946 Fax: (912) 638-4407 drsayer@sayerendo.com
Southeastern District Dr. Matt Rosenthal Phone (912) 352-7808 Fax (912) 352-7807 mrosenthal9@gmail.com
Western Trustee Dr. James Lopez Phone: (706) 324-1834 Fax: (706) 324-5101 lope3017@bellsouth.net
Northern District Dr. Evis Babo Phone (404) 605-0359 Fax (404) 605-0678 evisbabodmd@gmail.com
Southwestern District Dr. Bonita Richter Phone (229) 294-3229 Fax (229) 294-3231 bonitatoothgirl@aol.com
PRESIDENTS ELECT Central District Dr. Cameron Garvin Phone (478) 745-2002 camerongarvin@gmail.com
Northwestern District Dr. David Bradberry Phone (770) 977-8644 Fax (770) 971-7953 drbradberry@bellsouth.net
Western District Dr. Jeff King Phone (706) 322-6551 Fax (706) 576-5154 jeffking@knology.net
GDA / SOURCEBOOK 2014-15 HOUSE OF DELEGATES Central Delegates Dr. Paul Fraysure Dr. Lindsay Holliday Dr. Mike Loden Dr. Nancy O’Brien Dr. Deena Smith Central Alternates Dr. Pinkney Gilchrist Dr. Amber Lawson Dr. Amy Loden Dr. Don Spillers Dr. Michael Wright Eastern Delegates Dr. David Brown Dr. Greg Clepper Dr. Celia Dunn Dr. Brad Hall Dr. Carole Hanes Dr. David Perry Dr. Jason Sayer Dr. Rhoda Sword Eastern Alternates Dr. Andy Allgood Dr. Lee Andrews Dr. John Crumpton Dr. Grant Loo Dr. Bill Newell Dr. Lewis Petree Dr. Paul Trotter Dr. Erik Wells Northern Delegates Dr. Chris Adkins Dr. Daren Becker Dr. Donald Brown Dr. Brook Corbett Dr. Jonathan Dubin Dr. Max Ferguson Dr. Hank Goble Dr. James Granade III Dr. James Granade Jr. Dr. Bradley Greenway Dr. Kathy Huber Dr. Tom Jagor Dr. Ben Jernigan Jr. Dr. Jeff Kendrick Dr. Paul Kudyba Dr. Matt Mazzawi Dr. Roy McDonald Dr. Bob O’Donnell
Dr. David Pumphrey Dr. David Remaley Dr. Richard A. Smith Dr. Sidney Tourial Dr. Richard Weinman Dr. Marvin Winter Dr. Carol Wolff Northern Alternates Dr. Evis Babo Dr. Sarabess Baumrind Dr. Henry Benson Dr. Neil Browning Dr. Ron Cavola Dr. David Carithers Dr. Kristina Dawson Dr. Ben Hawkins Dr. Vivian Hudson Dr. Ken Hutchinson Dr. Janet Kearns Dr. Linda King Dr. Amy Kuhmichel Dr. Joyce Lee Dr. Lynn Livingston Dr. Joseph Looper Dr. David Marion Dr. Greg Marks Dr. Heather McGee Dr. Troy Schulman Dr. Marie Schweinebraten Dr. Richard Sugarman Dr. Victor van Greuningen Dr. Ryan Vaughn Dr. Rebecca Weinman Northwestern Delegates Dr. Hank Bradford Dr. Bruce Camp Dr. Celeste Coggin Dr. David Drew Dr. Stan Halpern Dr. Casey Hart Dr. Howard Jones Dr. Ben Knaak Dr. Elizabeth Lewis Dr. Wendy Mitchell Dr. Jason Oyler Dr. Peter Shatz Dr. Jason Young Northwestern Alternates Dr. David Bradberry Dr. Brenda Fritz
GDA OFFICE STAFF Dr. Stuart Loos Dr. Dave Mason Dr. Rob McGhee Dr. Todd Mullikin Dr. Freddy Padilla Dr. Kumar Patel Dr. Joe Peluso Dr. Chris Rautenstrauch Dr. P.J. Schaner Dr. Larry Tilley Southeastern Delegates Dr. Cara DeLeon Dr. Mark Dusek Dr. Ryan Fulchi Dr. Matt Rosenthal Dr. Donihue Waters Southeastern Alternates Dr. Matt Barefoot Dr. Will Faulk Dr. Todd Fruit Dr. Stephanie Skinner Dr. Ron Smiley Southwestern Delegates Dr. Bo Broadfoot Dr. Jeff Cox Dr. Greg Morris Dr. Bonita Richter Dr. Steve Sample Southwestern Alternates Dr. Larry Black Dr. Keith Crummey Dr. Chris Hasty Western Delegates Dr. James Lopez Dr. Edward Smith Dr. Mark Zwickey Western Alternates Dr. Mark Lawrence Dr. Jeff King Dr. Rene Roberts ASDA Delegate Jordan Blankenship
GDA Executive Office 7000 Peachtree Dunwoody Road NE Suite 200 Building 17 Atlanta, GA 30328-1655 Call (800) 432-4357 Call (404) 636-7553 Fax (404) 633-3943 WWW.GADENTAL.ORG Frank J. Capaldo Executive Director capaldo@gadental.org Delaine Hall GDA: Action, Directory, Social Media hall@gadental.org Skip Jones GDIS: All Accounts, Marketing jones@gadental.org Courtney Layfield GDA: GMOM, Third Party, Medicaid layfield@gadental.org Victoria LeMaire GDIS: Medical Accounts lemaire@gadental.org Melana Kopman McClatchey GDA: General Counsel mcclatchey@gadental.org Margo Null GDIS: Property / Casualty Accounts null@gadental.org Patrice Williams GDA: Meetings, District Liaison williams@gadental.org Phyllis Willich GDA: Expanded Duties, Admin willich@gadental.org Pamela Yungk GDA: Membership, Finance yungk@gadental.org
ASDA Alternate Alena Reich September 2014 • 29
GDA / SOURCEBOOK 2014-15 GDA / SOURCEBOOK 2014-15 CENTRAL
EASTERN
NORTHERN
NORTHWESTERN
Trustee: Dr. Mike Loden
Trustee: Dr. Erik Wells
Trustee: Dr. Chris Adkins
Trustee: Dr. Robin Reich
Dr. Vin Bhasin President Phone: (478) 923-0232 bhasindmd@yahoo.com
Dr. Greg Clepper President Phone (706) 738-8070 gclepper@gmail.com
Dr. Donald Brown President Phone (404) 816-7075 toothluvr@bellsouth.net
Dr. Elizabeth Lewis President Phone (678) 493-2204 gatoothdoc@hotmail.com
Dr. Cameron Garvin President Elect Phone: (478) 745-2002 camerongarvin@gmail.com
Dr. Jason Sayer President Elect Phone: (912) 638-9946 drsayer@sayerendo.com
Dr. Evis Babo President Elect Phone (404) 605-0359 evisbabodmd@gmail.com
Dr. David Bradberry President Elect Phone (770) 977-8644 drbradberry@bellsouth.net
Dr. Jamie Mitchell Vice President Phone (706) 468-6394 jamitchelldmd@bellsouth.net
Dr. Lewis Petree Vice President Phone (770) 867-2277 lpetree@spfamilydentistry.com
Dr. Ryan Vaughn Vice President Phone (678) 450-7011 ryvaughn@att.net
Dr. David Drew Vice President Phone (770) 832-2353 rdaviddrew@bellsouth.net
Dr. Don Benton Secretary / Treasurer Phone: (478) 475-1980 t.doc@cox.net
Dr. Carole Hanes Secretary / Treasurer Phone (706) 721-2813 chanes@gru.edu
Dr. Victor van Greuningen Secretary / Treasurer Phone (770) 271-0070 drvictorvg@yahoo.com
Dr. Kumar Patel Secretary Phone (770) 429-1545 drkay71@yahoo.com
Dr. Amy Lee Editor Phone: (478) 757-5826 dramylee@bellsouth.net ______________________
Dr. Rhoda Sword Editor Phone (706) 721-2881 rsword@gru.edu ______________________
Dr. Rebecca Weinman Editor Phone (404) 266-1300 rcw128@aol.com
Dr. Brenda Fritz Treasurer Phone (404) 237-0497 bfritz184@gmail.com
Visit from GDA Officers: Sept. 18, 2014 The Brickyard @ Riverside Golf Club in Macon
Visit from GDA Officers: Oct. 7, 2014 The Jockey Club in Washington
Dr. Mayur Nayee Editor Phone (770) 452-7358 mayur_nayee@yahoo.com ______________________
Legislative Reception: Dec. 4, 2014, The Brickyard @ Riverside Golf Club
Legislative Receptions: Oct. 28, 2014 (Augusta) Nov. 18, 2014 (Athens)
Executive Director Hank Holderfield 3461 Lawrenceville Suwanee Rd Suite F, Suwanee, GA 30024 Phone (770) 271-8743 www.ndds.org ______________________
LAW Day: Mar. 25, 2015
LAW Day: Mar. 11, 2015
Visit from GDA Officers: Oct. 27, 2014, 103 West Legislative Reception: Dec. 10 , 2014, 103 West Dec. 9, 2014 (Hall Co Branch) LAW Days: Feb. 18, 2015 Feb. 25, 2015 Mar. 18, 2015
30 • September 2014
Visit from GDA Officers: Nov. 5, 2014 Cartersville Country Club Legislative Reception: Dec. 3, 2014 Clarence Brown Center LAW Day: Mar. 4, 2015
GDA / SOURCEBOOK 2014-15 SOUTHEASTERN SOUTHWESTERN WESTERN
ALLIANCE
Trustee: Dr. Byron Colley
Trustee: Dr. Steve Sample
Trustee: Dr. Jim Lopez
Dr. Donihue Waters President Phone (912) 354-3474 donihuewaters@hotmail.com
Dr. Bo Broadfoot President Phone (229) 244-3700 jcbdmd@acfd.com
Dr. Mark Zwickey President Phone (706) 596-1757 mzwickey@aol.com
Mrs. Cindy Jernigan (Dr. Ben Jernigan) President Phone (404) 702-5543 cindyjernigan@gmail.com
Dr. Matt Rosenthal President Elect Phone (912) 352-7808 mrosenthal9@gmail.com
Dr. Bonita Richter President Elect Phone (229) 294-3229 bonitatoothgirl@aol.com
Dr. Jeff King President Elect Phone (706) 322-6551 jeffking@knology.net
Dr. Steven Berwitz Vice President Phone (912) 355-5004 sberwitz@stevenberwitzdmd.com
Dr. Jeff Cox 1st Vice President Phone (229) 686-5525 drjcox1@windstream.net
Dr. Rene Roberts Vice President Phone (706) 494-2697 rwroberts@bellsouth.net
Dr. Rebecca Martin Secretary Phone (912) 355-7790 beckylmartin@gmail.com
Dr. Heather Colson Hardy 2nd Vice President Phone (229) 242-2449 drcolson@bellsouth.net
Dr. Scott McLaurin Secretary / Treasurer Phone (706) 596-1895 mclaurin1@gmail.com
Dr. Bracey Holland Treasurer Phone (912) 352-4386 braceyhollanddmd@gmail.com
Dr. David Howington Editor Phone (229) 985-8504 dental31768@yahoo.com ______________________
Dr. Brett Helton Editor Phone (706) 563-3225 brettheltondmd@bellsouth.net ______________________
Visit from GDA Officers: Jan. 16, 2015 UGA Tifton Conference Center
Visit from GDA Officers: Oct. 21, 2014 Green Island Country Club
Legislative Receptions: Nov. 6, 2014 (Albany) Nov. 13, 2014 (Valdosta)
Legislative Reception: Nov. 11, 2014 Green Island Country Club
LAW Day: Feb. 11, 2015
LAW Day: Mar. 18, 2015
Dr. Beth Sheridan Co-Editor Phone (912) 354-5559 bethsheridan@bellsouth.net Dr. Felix Maher Co-Editor Phone (912) 352-0546 maherdmd@aol.com ______________________ Visit from GDA Officers: Jan. 23, 2015 Armstrong Center, Savannah
Mrs. Julie Vaughn (Dr. Ryan Vaughn) President Elect Phone (706) 836-5671 ja.vaughn@hotmail.com Mrs. Julia Davis (Dr. Clayton Davis) Vice President Phone (404) 641-7976 juliadavis@bellsouth.net Erin Park (Dr. Julius Park) Secretary Phone (917) 657-3461 eringpark@yahoo.com Fran Brown (Dr. Donnie Brown) Treasurer Phone (770) 364-6162 franrbrown@gmail.com Janet Bradberry (Dr. David Bradberry) Editor Phone (770) 815-2291 jbradberry@bellsouth.net ______________________ LAW Day: Feb. 11 2015
Legislative Reception: Dec. 18, 2014 Savannah Golf Club LAW Day: Feb. 26, 2015
September 2014 • 31
GDA / SOURCEBOOK 2014-15 GDA / SOURCEBOOK 2014-15 COMMITTEES GDA DELEGATION TO ADA HOUSE OF DELEGATES Dr. Carol Wolff (N), Chair Phone (404) 237-0497 drcwolff@bellsouth.net DELEGATES (10) Dr. Robert Carpenter (W) Dr. Chris Hasty (SW) Dr. Ed Green (SW) At Large Dr. Kara Moore (C) Dr. Donna Thomas Moses (NW) Dr. Annette Rainge (E) Dr. Julie Ann Routhier (SE) Dr. Doug Torbush (N) Dr. Richard Weinman (N) Dr. Carol Wolff (N) ALTERNATES: (10) Dr. Evis Babo (N) Dr. Tom Broderick (SE) Dr. Celia Dunn (E) Dr. Jack Bickford (NW) At Large Dr. Jonathan Dubin (N) Dr. Jay Harrington (C) At Large Dr. Ben Jernigan (N) Dr. Marshall Mann (NW) At Large Dr. Robin Reich (NW)
Dr. Bob O’Donnell (N) EX OFFICIO Dr. Jay Phillips (C) Dr. David Bradberry (NW) ___________________________ AWARDS Nominates candidates for GDA awards such as Honorable Fellow. Dr. Marvin Winter (N), Chair Phone (404) 373-2667 drwinter@mindspring.com Dr. Deena Holliman Smith (C) Dr. David Brown (E) Dr. Tom Jagor (N) Dr. Todd Mullikin (NW) Dr. Russ Clemmons (SE) TBD (SW) Dr. Robert Stone (W) ___________________________ CONSTITUTION AND BYLAWS Recommends proposed amendments to the Constitution, Bylaws, and Policy Manual. Dr. Robert O’Donnell (N), Chair Phone (770) 664-6245 rjodon@bellsouth.net
JULY 23-26, 2015 ANNUAL MEETING THE OMNI AMELIA ISLAND PLANTATION, FLORIDA Dr. Max Ferguson, General Chair Phone (404) 816-8725 drlmaxwell@yahoo.com www.MeetGDA.com Dr. Donna Thomas Moses (NW) Awards & Installation Breakfast Dr. Bob O’Donnell (N) Children’s Program Dr. Celia Dunn (E) Door Prizes Dr. Annette Rainge (E) Door Prizes Dr. Jeff Kendrick (N) Exhibit Hall Dr. Evis Babo (N) Children’s Event (Exhibit Hall) Dr. Ryan Vaughn (N) Friday Family Event Dr. Donnie Brown (N) Fishing Dr. Sarabess Baumrind (N) Fun Run Dr. Sidney Tourial (N) Golf Tournament Dr. Marvin Winter (N) Hospitality Dr. Ed Green (SW) Kickoff Breakfast Dr. Jim Hall (C) Memories Video Dr. Matt Mazzawi (N) Saturday Night Event Dr. Roy McDonald (N) Clinical Program Dr. Robin Reich (NW) Registration Dr. Joe Looper (N) Tennis Dr. Richard Sugarman (N) Tickets Dr. Jonathan Dubin (N) T-Shirts Dr. Henry Benson (N) Tours Dr. Ben Jernigan (N) Volunteers Party
32 • September 2014
Dr. John Kuo (C) Dr. Bill Newell (E) Dr. Richard Sugarman (N) Dr. Phil Parham (NW) Dr. Mark Dusek (SE) Dr. Dan Carlon (SW) Dr. Janice Joyce (W) __________________________ COUNCIL ON DENTAL HEALTH Endeavors to improve the oral health of all Georgians by addressing matters and programs concerning dental health services. Dr. Byron Colley (SE), Chair Phone (912) 355-5901 hacolley@gmail.com Dr. Amy Loden (C) Dr. Andy Chandler (E) Dr. Ryan Vaughn (N) Dr. Aaron Schwartz (NW) Dr. Stephanie Skinner (SE) TBD (SW) Dr. Alex Cranford (W) Liaisons: Dental Health Month: Dr. Ryan Vaughn (N), Fluoridation: Dr. Joe Alderman (N), Medicaid: Dr. Jim Hall (C) __________________________ FINANCE Consults with GDA leaders to prepare budgets, steer investments, and recommend endorsements involving royalty income. Dr. Ed Green (SW), Chair Phone (229) 883-3071 dr.green@mchsi.com Dr. Kendrick Mathews (C) Dr. Erik Wells (E) Dr. Victor van Greuningen (N) Dr. Peter Shatz (NW) Dr. Bracey Holland (SE) Dr. Ed Green (SW) Dr. Jeff King (W) __________________________ FORENSIC DENTISTRY Responds to situations that require application of dental knowledge to the purposes of the law, including situations where forensic identification may be necessary.
Dr. Tom David (NW), Chair Phone (770) 977-0364 tjd214@comcast.net Dr. Jason Mann (C) Dr. Brad Hall (E) Dr. Tom Jagor (N) Dr. Jim Hutson (NW) Dr. Angela Canfield (SE) Dr. Kent Simmons (SW) Dr. Jim Lopez (W) _________________________ GOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRS Monitors legislation affecting dentistry and takes action as needed. Oversees Contact Dentist Program, LAW Day, GADPAC, and DC Leadership Conference. Dr. Bruce Camp (NW), Chair Phone (770) 459-1663 voncamps@comcast.net Dr. Amber Lawson (C) Dr. Brian Olson (E) Dr. Troy Schulman (N) Dr. Jack Bickford (NW) Dr. Ben Knaak (NW) Dr. Byron Colley (SE) Dr. Robert Moss (SW) Dr. Edward Paris (W) At-Large, Dr. Tom Broderick (SE) At-Large, Dr. Ty Ivey (C) At-Large, Dr. Ben Jernigan (N) At-Large, Dr. Ed Green (SW) Officer, Dr. Doug Torbush (N) Liaisons: Grassroots: Dr. Mike Loden (C); Contact Dentist: Dr. Troy Schulman (N); Board of Dentistry: Dr. Donnie Brown (N) __________________________ GADPAC BOARD Dr. Richard Weinman (N), Chair Phone (404) 266-1300 weinmandmd@aol.com Dr. Michael Wright (C) Dr. David Perry (E) Dr. Henry Benson (N) Dr. Jack Bickford (NW) Dr. Ben Knaak (NW) Dr. Byron Colley (SE) Dr. Robert Moss (SW) Dr. Matt Adams (W) Dr. Janine Bethea (Alliance)
GDA / SOURCEBOOK 2014-15 MEMBERSHIP SERVICES Coordinates and reviews services provided to GDA members. Dr. Becky Weinman (N), Chair Phone (404) 266-1300 rcw128@aol.com Dr. Jamie Mitchell (C) Dr. Greg Griffin (E) Dr. Sarabess Baumrind (N) Dr. Erin Pickwick (N) Dr. Jason Oyler (NW) Dr. Kim Turner (SE) Dr. Jeff Cox (SW) Dr. David Fagundes (W) Liaisons: Dental Recovery Network: Dr. Gary Bartholomew (N); Expanded Duties: Dr. Joe Hair (NW); Wastewater and BMPs: Dr. Tom Jagor (N) __________________________ ORAL HEALTH IN INSTITUTIONAL SETTINGS Endeavors to improve the oral health of Georgians residing in institutional settings. Dr. Jonathan Dubin (N), Chair Phone (404) 636-2763 jsdubin@aol.com TBD (C) Dr. Celia Dunn (E) Dr. Deidra Rondeno (N) Dr. David Kurtzman (NW) Dr. Richard Thomas (SE) Dr. Bo Broadfoot (SW) Dr. Nancy Gallagher (W) __________________________ PEER REVIEW & ETHICS Investigates and mediates complaints concerning quality of care and appropriateness of treatment, and implements and enforces a code of professional standards. Dr. Roy McDonald (N), Chair Phone (770) 667-6453 info@drroymcdonald.com Dr. Greg Burns (C) Dr. Tom McDonald (E) Dr. Randy Phillips (N) Dr. John Sieweke (N) Dr. Marvin Winter (N) Dr. Dave Mason (NW) Dr. Tom Graham (SE)
Dr. Barclay Woodward (SW) Dr. Bruce Boretsky (W) Ethics Liaison: Dr. Joe Dufresne (NW) __________________________ PUBLIC RELATIONS Promotes a proper image of dentistry to the public and assures good communication between the GDA and other organizations. Dr. Robin Reich (NW), Chair Phone (770) 435-5450 robin.reich@reichdental center.com Dr. Lindsay Holliday (C) Dr. Meigan Johnson Miller (C) Dr. Andy Allgood (E) Dr. David Pumphrey (N) Dr. Richard A. Smith (N) Dr. Wade Diab (NW) Dr. Cara DeLeon (SE) Dr. David Howington (SW) Dr. John Scuba (W) Liaisons: Allied Personnel & Specialty: Dr. Keith Crummey (SW); Fisher Dental Education Foundation: Dr. William Bennett (NW); Information Technology: Dr. Erik Wells (E); GRU CODM Faculty: Dr. Celia Dunn (E) _________________________ RECRUITMENT & RETENTION Monitors the needs of the GDA membership and New Dentist, Student Relations, Mentor, and Relief / Necrology programs. Dr. Kara Moore (C), Chair Phone (478) 986-6821 drkaramoore@yahoo.com Dr. Katie Garvin (C) Dr. Greg Clepper (E) Dr. Erin Pickwick (N) Dr. Sarabess Baumrind (N) Dr. Alex Patrick (NW) Dr. Walker Pendarvis (SE) Dr. Heather Colson Hardy (SW) Dr. Lance Collier (W) Dr. Jay Harris (W)
__________________________ WORKFORCE Monitors and reviews issues related to the entire dental workforce. Dr. Matt Adams (W), Chair Phone (706) 323-8811 mt.adams2000@gmail.com Dr. Pinkney Gilchrist (C) Dr. Erik Wells (E) TBD (N) Dr. David Drew (NW) Dr. Eric Gladden (SE) TBD (SW) ________________________
TASK FORCES
Created by the GDA President to accomplish specific aims; dismissed upon task completion. GEORGIA MISSION OF MERCY Dr. Karyn Stockwell (NW) State GMOM Co-Chair Phone (770) 424-9292 kstoc@aol.com
Dr. Jimmy Cassidy (C), Local 2015 GMOM Chair Phone (478) 745-0227 drjamescassidy@me.com ________________________ LEADERSHIP GDA Dr. Jim Hutson (NW), Chair Phone (770) 424-7525 jhutsondds@mindspring.com _________________________ TELEDENTISTRY Dr. Robert Moss (SW), Chair Phone (229) 432-2103 wireyguy@bellsouth.net _______________________ DENTAL LABORATORY LEGISLATION Dr. Jimmy Cassidy (C), Chair Phone (478) 745-0227 drjamescassidy@me.com
Committee Organizational Chart House of Delegates Board of Trustees GDA President Executive Director Executive Office Staff
President Elect
Areas of Responsibility
Annual Meeting Chairs Constitution & Bylaws Nominating Committee Workforce Committee All GDA Task Forces
Vice President
Areas of Responsibility
Council on Dental Health • Fluoridation Liaison • Children’s Dental Health Month Liaison • Medicaid Liason
ADA Delegation
Membership Services Committee • Dental Recovery Network Liaison • Expanded Duties Liaison • Wastewater / BMP Liaison
Governmental Affairs Committee • Board of Dentistry Liaison • Contact Dentist Liaison • Grassroots Liaison
Awards Committee Forensic Dentistry Committee
Oral Health In Institutional Settings Committee Peer Review and Ethics Committee • Ethics Liaison
Secretary/Treasurer Areas of Responsibility
Finance Committee
Liaisons: GRU CODM Students: Dr. Carole Hanes (E); Necrology: Dr. Henry Benson (N); New Dentist: Dr. Katie Garvin (C)
Dr. Jonathan Dubin (N) State GMOM Co-Chair Phone (404) 636-2763 jsdubin@aol.com
Recruitment & Retention Committee • GRU Student Relations Liaison • New Dentist Liaison
Editor
Areas of Responsibility Public Relations Committee • Allied Personnel & Specialty Liaison • Emile T. Fisher Foundation Liaison • GRU Faculty Liaison • Information Technology Liaison
September 2014 • 33
GDA / SOURCEBOOK 2014-15 GDA / SOURCEBOOK 2014-15 PRODUCT AND SERVICE BENEFITS ADA MERCEDES-BENZ 866-628-7232 (Mention ADA) www.gadental.org Reward yourself with a MercedesBenz and save $1,000 to $4,000.
BANK OF AMERICA PRACTICE SOLUTIONS (800) 497-6076 www.bankofamerica.com/ practicesolutions Custom financial products and services for the dental community.
BANKAMERICARD CASH REWARDS(TM) (800) 432-4357 (GDA Office) www.gadental.org The BankAmericard Cash RewardsTM Visa Signature® credit card rewards customers with up to 3% cash back on certain purchases while supporting GDA initiatives.
CARECREDIT (800) 300-3046 x-4519 www.carecredit.com/dental Make it easier for patients to get the care they want, when they want it by adding CareCredit, a healthcare credit card, as an additional payment option.
CLAIMX (866) 886-5113 www.gadental.org This insurance management system interfaces with your Practice Management System to help with claim processing, claim status, eligibility checks, and reporting.
34 • September 2014
THE DENTAL RECORD (800) 243-4675 www.dentalrecord.com Kit includes online forms patients can download and complete prior to their first visit. Create the ideal practice record system..
HP BUSINESS (800) 888-4164 www.gadental.org Save up to 30% on notebooks, desktops, printers, scanners, and servers. Free shipping. Check out HP’s trade-in program!
LANDS END OUTFITTERS (800) 990-5407 www.gadental.org Give your staff a unified image with specially priced Lands’ End apparel personalized with your practice’s logo.
LEGALSHIELD (904) 573-2232/(407) 529-8030 www.legalshield.com Obtain personal and business legal advice, legal document review, and identity theft restoration, plus complimentary team training.
OFFICITE (877) 484-7187 www.officite.com Practice websites, local search marketing, mobile websites, reputation management, social media, and online patient education.
TRANSFIRST (800) 538-1601 www.transfirst.com Enable your practice to accept credit cards and checks, better assist your patients with options, and impact your bottom line.
TRANSWORLD SYSTEMS (404) 538-6099 www.transworldsystems. com/gda.html Transworld provides better tools for accounts receivable, debt recovery, and past due accounts.
UBS FINANCIAL SERVICES Wile Consulting Group (404) 760-3000 http://financialservicesinc.ubs. com/team/wile UBS provides you with the financial guidance and resources you’ll need to secure your future.
GEORGIA DENTAL INSURANCE SERVICES (GDIS) Phone: (800) 432-4357 Phone: (404) 636-7553 Fax: (404) 634-6099 www.MyGDIS.com Data Breach: Get covered in case of a breach of patient information. GDIS can help you determine if such coverage is your best option. Medical: Pick from affordable plans underwritten by Blue Cross Blue Shield that give you only the coverage you want and need. Your GDIS offers you individual health insurance plans that fit your life style and pocketbook. Presented in partnership with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Georgia, these plans let you choose the benefits you want at prices that don’t break the bank. Call GDIS for an instant quote!
Disability: You are your most valuable dental practice asset. If your income stops because of a disability, what will replace your income? Get a policy today. Life: GDIS offers term life available in an increasing term policy or a level term policy.
UPS 1-800-MEMBERS savewithups.com/ada ADA members can save up to 36% on shipping services, including up to 24% on UPS Ground shipments. Switch your account or sign up for a new one and save.
WHIRLPOOL (866) 808-9274 www.whirlpoolinsidepass.com VIPLINK is now INSIDE PASS. You’ll still get the same great savings you always have, but now you will have an enhanced experience with our upgraded web site.
Long Term Care: GDIS and John Hancock offer LTC insurance with an array of valuable benefits. Professional Liability: GDIS and Medical Protective work with you to obtain this incredibly valuable, well-priced coverage. Property / Casualty: Protect your practice in case of damage or disaster at reasonable rates. Workers’ Comp: Dentists are responsible for carrying a Workers’ Compensation policy for their staff members. GDIS can help you find the coverage you need.
GDA / SOURCEBOOK 2014-15 DENTAL CONTACTS AMERICAN DENTAL ASSOCIATION Chicago HQ: (800) 621-8099 Dentists: www.ada.org Patients: www.mouthhealthy.org Shoppers: www.adacatalog.com
American Academy of Oral & Maxillofacial Pathology (888) 552-2667 • www.aaomp.org
DENTAL EDUCATION
American Academy of Oral & Maxillofacial Radiology www.aaomr.org
Fisher Dental Education Foundation www.fisherdentaleducation.org
American Association of Orthodontists (314) 993-1700 • www.aaoinfo.org Georgia Association of Orthodontists www.gaortho.org
Georgia Regents University CODM (706) 721-2371 • www.gru.edu
DENTAL LICENSURE
Georgia Board of Dentistry (404) 651-8000 • http://gbd.georgia.gov
DENTAL PUBLIC HEALTH
Association of State & Territorial Dental Directors (775) 626-5008 • www.astdd.org Georgia Division of Oral Health (404) 657-6639 http://dph.georgia.gov/oral-health
HONOR SOCIETIES
American College of Dentists (301) 977-3223 • www.acd.org Hinman Dental Society, Mar 26-28, 2015 (404) 231-1663 • www.hinman.org International College of Dentists (810) 820-3087 • www.icd.org Pierre Fauchard Academy (435) 213-9089 • www.fauchard.org
PRACTICE ORGANIZATIONS Academy of General Dentistry (888) 243-3368 • www.agd.org Georgia AGD Chapter (404) 299-7987 • www.gagd.org
American Association of Endodontists (800) 872-3636 • www.aae.org American Association of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons (800) 822-6637 • www.aaoms.org Georgia Society of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons (770) 271-0453 • www.ga-oms.org
American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (312) 337-2169 • www.aapd.org Georgia Academy of Pediatric Dentistry www.gaapd.org American Academy of Periodontology (312) 787-5518 • www.perio.org American College of Prosthodontists (312) 573-1260 • www.prosthodontics.org
REGULATORY AGENCIES
Americans with Disabilities Act (800) 514-0301 • www.ada.gov Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (800) 232-4636 • www.cdc.gov U.S. Department of Labor (866) 487-2365 • www.dol.gov Georgia Department of Labor (404) 232-7300 • www.dol.state.ga.us Occupational Safety & Health Administration (678) 237-0400 • www.osha.gov Georgia Department of Revenue (877) 423-6711 • www.etax.dor.ga.gov U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (800) 882-9539 www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov GA Board of Pharmacy (478) 207-2440 • https://gbp.georgia.gov GA Drugs & Narcotics Agency (800) 656-6568 • http://gdna.georgia.gov GA Environmental Protection Division (888) 373-5947 • www.gaepd.org
U.S. Federal Trade Commission (877) 382-4357 • www.ftc.gov U.S. Food & Drug Administration (888) 463-6332 • www.fda.gov U.S. Health Insurance Portability & Accountability Act www.hhs.gov/ocr/privacy Georgia Insurance Commissioner (404) 656-2070 • www.inscomm.state.ga.us U.S. National Provider Identifier (800) 465-3203 • https://nppes.cms.hhs.gov/ NPPES/Welcome.do Georgia X-ray Registration http://dch.georgia.gov (Search for x-ray; click instructions for x-ray registration _________________________________
GDIS and GDA BOARDS
The GDA owns GDHC. GDHC is the shareholder for GDA subsidiary GDIS. The Foundation supports outreach activities including GMOM. Georgia Dental Holding Company Dr. Jim Hall, Chair (C) 8/17 Dr. Brian Hall (E) 8/15 Dr. Suhayl Rafeedie (N) 8/17 Dr. Howard Jones (NW) 8/15 Dr. Jay McCaslin VI (SE) 8/16 Dr. Hank Cook (SW) 8/16 Dr. Brett Helton (W) 8/17 Georgia Dental Insurance Services Dr. John Ferguson, Chair (C) 8/17 Dr. David Brown (E), 8/16 Dr. Jim Granade Jr. (N), 8/17 Dr. Celeste Coggin (NW), 8/16 Dr. Bob Vaught (SE), 8/16 Dr. Jay Cranford (SW), 8/16 Dr. William DeNamur (W), 8/17 GDA Foundation for Oral Health Dr. Mike Vernon, Chair (E), 6/15 Dr. Jim Hall (C), 6/16 Dr. Doug Torbush (N), 6/15 Dr. John Dooley (NW), 6/16 Dr. Byron Colley (SE), 6/16 Dr. Jay Phillips (SW), 6/14 Dr. Nancy Gallagher (W), 6/14 September 2014 • 35
GDAMILESTONES Challenges and Strengths: District Presidents Speak Our new district presidents are hard-working volunteers who care about their patients, profession, community, and association. Here, they talk about their districts’ biggest challenges, but also the strengths they can call on to meet those challenges.
Central District Dr. Vin Bhasin
“Our biggest challenge is attracting new dentists to join committees and get more involved in organized dentistry. The strongest asset is our membership and the executive committee, which is super at helping anyone. Central has always been a district that is very involved in organized dentistry. You can see this in our representation at the LAW Day, where we have won several district attendance challenges.”
Eastern District Dr. Greg Clepper
“The biggest challenge facing the Eastern District is communicating the importance of taking an active interest in organized dentistry and recruiting members into leadership roles. That being said, we have had some outstanding new leaders emerge over the past few years that will continue to help our district grow and prosper. Our biggest asset is without question our members and leaders. We also are privileged to have Georgia Regents University in our district, which affords us the luxury of getting to interact with the students and residents, as well as having some faculty members and educators directly involved with the district.” 36 • September 2014
Northern District Dr. Donnie Brown
“In Northern, we need to increase our membership and get our members, especially young dentists, more engaged with what organized dentistry can do for our practices and our patients. But our district has tremendous potential. We have a large base of bright and diverse dentists. We have a very competent part-time executive director and staff. In addition, the resources of the GDA sit in the middle of our district.”
Northwestern District Dr. Elizabeth Lewis
“Our biggest challenge as I see it is communication. One of my top priorities is to develop some type of consistent communication tool that our district can use to keep all of our members informed. Our best feature bar none is our members. The Northwestern District has an amazing group of outstanding leaders as well as young new talent that I would like to see step up to volunteer. I look forward to the camaraderie that our district has at local events, and I hope to make these events bigger and better as our district grows.”
Southeastern District Dr. Donihue Waters
“Our challenge is to keep up membership in organized dentistry, continue to find ways to re-energize current members, and encourage non-members to get involved. We have a strong core of involved and dedicated dentists who can help me get out and try to get non-members to take advantage of organized dentistry. I want to make sure that all of our district dentists are well-informed of the issues that impact our profession.”
Southwestern District Dr. Bo Broadfoot
“I see our big challenge as engaging new dentists and re-igniting veteran dentists’ interest in taking a leadership role. We have always had great participation in leadership, CE, and outreach by our member dentists and I look forward to doing my part to promote the benefits of organized dentistry.”
Western District Dr. Jeff King
“Our biggest challenge will be to continue to foster and grow participation within district and statewide events. If we have an active membership at the district level, this enhances everyone's knowledge and awareness of not only issues at the district level
but also issues with dentistry at the state level. Nothing creates awareness more than people getting in a room together and discussing things. If we can increase local attendance we will make our members more aware and willing to help with more statewide issues. “I am a relatively new practitioner and relatively new to the GDA, but I believe our district has a good sense of community. There is not a negative or competitive atmosphere, but one of willingness to help our community, patients, and other practitioners. As I think we all try to do, I am looking forward to continuing to increase our meeting participation and bring some CE topics to our meetings that will benefit our profession.”
Challenges: Get new dentists involved. Increase overall membership. Communicate value. Convince established dentists to take leadership roles. The main strength: An outstanding, committed group of current members. Zwickey
Clepper
Brown
Bh
Broad
King
preciate the opportunity for her to be recognized publicly for her efforts.” Dr. Stockwell is a Past President of the Northwestern District Dental Society and a former Northwestern District Dentist of the Year. She has chaired numerous GDA and district committees, is a GDA Honorable Fellow, and is a past recipient of a GDA presidential commendation. She will become the first female president of the Pierre Fauchard Academy in the fall of 2014.
Dr. Rebecca Weinman
Dr. Rebecca Weinman was honored as a Community Service award recipient by 2014-15 GDA President Dr. Marshall Mann during the 2014 GDA Annual Meeting.
Association Honors Dentists for Outstanding Community Service The Georgia Dental Association Community Service Award recognizes dentists who distinguish themselves by extraordinary service to the quality of life and health of persons in the local, state, national, or international community via dentistry. The award honors members whose volunteer spirit reflects well on the Association and raises the profile of all dentists. Kudos to 2014 honorees Dr. Karyn Stockwell and Dr. Rebecca Weinman.
Dr. Karyn Stockwell
If the GDA conducts a charitable event and calls for volunteers, chances are that Dr. Karyn Stockwell of Marietta will answer the call. This Medical College of Georgia graduate has taken part in numerous GDA, Northwestern District, community, and Pierre Fauchard Academy charitable activities, and provides charitable care within her practice. But Georgia patients in need have benefitted from Dr. Stockwell’s work in other ways. In January 2010, Dr. Stockwell encouraged hasin the GDA House of Delegates to bring a Mission of Mercy clinic to Georgia. The House approved. The GDA has now hosted two GMOM clinics in Atlanta where volunteers have provided care to more than 3,800 low- and no-income Georgians. GMOM has dfoot garnered widespread media coverage and been honored with a 2012 Atlanta Business Chronicle “Health Care Heroes” Community Outreach Award. Dr. Stockwell and her State GMOM co-chair Dr. Jonathan Dubin, with the assistance of Local GMOM Chair Dr. Jimmy Cassidy, are moving the program Lewis to central Georgia for a third clinic in 2015. “Dr. Stockwell has given countless hours to the Atlanta community in order that many of its citizens might enjoy better oral health,” said Northwestern District Past President Dr. Stan Halpern. “We ap-
Dr. Karyn Stockwell was honored with a GDA Community Service award for a variety of volunteer accomplishments, including helping to establish GMOM. ________________________
Previous Honorees Dr. Richard Bennett Dr. Edwin Burnette Dr. Bruce Carter Dr. Jonathan Dubin Dr. Isaac Holton Jr. Dr. Lawrence McCurdy Dr. Emmanuel Ngoh Dr. John Peacock Dr. Stanley Satterfield
The GDA and Atlanta community have greatly benefitted from the volunteer efforts of Dr. Rebecca Weinman. She is a dedicated supporter of GDA and Northern District charitable dental activities. In addition, she has restored the oral health of dozens of victims of domestic violence. “Domestic violence and sex trafficking are forms of slavery that leave the victim not only with a broken soul but frequently broken teeth due to physical abuse or neglect,” said Dr. Weinman. “As I began to work with women helped by the Partnership Against Domestic Violence organization, I reached out to Jeff Paulen, owner of New Image Laboratory. He agreed that if I did the dentistry, he would donate laboratory materials and services. I share this award with him because together we have been able to assist many more individuals.” “I have seen Becky work with victims over many months to re-establish their oral health and smiles,” said Dr. Mollie Winston, one of the specialists, including Dr. Laura Braswell, Dr. Richard Sugarman, and Dr. Mark Brunner Dr. Weinman has recruited to help victims as well. “She does this tirelessly and quietly with great devotion and respect for individual needs.” Dr. Weinman practices general dentistry with her spouse, GDA Past President and GADPAC Chairman Dr. Richard Weinman, Dr. Jason Myerson, and Dr. Shannon Thorsteinson. She is the current Chair of the GDA Membership Services Committee and an instructor with the GDA Expanded Duties program. She was elected as a GDA Honorable Fellow in 2010.
September 2014 • 37
Celebrating ADA Life Members: 35 Years of Membership in 2014 CENTRAL DISTRICT Dr. Robert Betzel Dr. Lee Godfrey Dr. Steve McLain Dr. Thomas Washington III EASTERN DISTRICT Dr. Philip Hanes Dr. Van Haywood Dr. John Jopling Jr. Dr. William Jopling Dr. Matthew McRae Jr. Dr. Dale Twilley NORTHERN DISTRICT Dr. Thomas Brem Dr. James Collins Dr. Robert Fryer Dr. Thomas Kauffman Dr. Ralph Lehr II Dr. Donald McGhee Dr. Kenneth McMillan Dr. Frederick Meadows Dr. Timothy O’Shea
Dr. Samuel Razook Dr. Mary Thompson NORTHWESTERN DISTRICT Dr. Phillip Bracken Dr. Kenneth Brown Dr. Michael Shenk Dr. James Sylvan Dr. Jonathan Waldron Dr. David Zelby SOUTHEASTERN DISTRICT Dr. Stephen Acuff Dr. Robert Holovack Dr. Morgan Murray Dr. John Wolfe Jr. SOUTHWESTERN DISTRICT Dr. David Beauchamp Jr. Dr. Stephen Moore Dr. Stephen Shiver WESTERN DISTRICT Dr. Gerald Adams Dr. Isaac Hadley
Drs. Kathy Huber, Vasco Lowery, and Robert Carpenter were among those honored in July for maintaining 25 years of GDA membership.
Celebrating 25-Year Members: Continuous GDA Support CENTRAL DISTRICT Dr. Donald Benton Jr. Dr. Sharon Jordan Dr. Richard Liipfert Dr. Nancy O’Brien Dr. Gary Pool Dr. Clinton Watson EASTERN DISTRICT Dr. Edwin Campbell Dr. Frank Caughman Dr. Phillip Durden Dr. Isaac Holton Jr. Dr. Vasco Lowery III Dr. Cary Miller Dr. Ted Oellerich Dr. Lewis Petree Dr. David Roberson Dr. Frederick Thielke
Drs. Philip Hanes and Thomas Kauffman were among those honored at the GDA meeting in July as ADA Life Members.
These and hundreds of other images from the 2014 Annual Meeting are available on www.MeetGDA.com. If you need a particular image from the meeting, email hall@gadental.org. 38 • September 2014
NORTHERN DISTRICT Dr. Juan Arrue Dr. Yvonne Beckford Dr. Robert Brooks Dr. Mark Cohen Dr. Jennifer Diversi Dr. Terry Elrod Dr. David Frankel Dr. Marilyn Gaylor Dr. Kathy Huber Dr. Jeffrey Jordan Dr. Jeffrey Larner Dr. Randall Phillips Dr. Craig Ricks Dr. Robert Rousseau Dr. Lawrence Saltzman Dr. Craig Smith Dr. Jeffery Turner Dr. Joseph Washington Dr. Craig Ricks
Dr. Robert Rousseau Dr. Lawrence Saltzman Dr. Craig Smith Dr. Jeffery Turner Dr. Joseph Washington NORTHWESTERN DISTRICT Dr. Cliff Acuff Dr. Susan Alexander Dr. Gordon Austin Dr. Christopher Bakke Dr. Dana Brockington Dr. Laurie Cavallaro Dr. David Croxton Dr. Manuel Davila Dr. Todd Edwards Dr. James Hudson Jr. Dr. James Patterson Dr. Jeffrey Prinsell Dr. Kevin Ragsdale SOUTHEASTERN DISTRICT Dr. Terry Lyle Dr. Matthew Sands Dr. Mark Sardo SOUTHWESTERN DISTRICT Dr. David Morton Dr. Duane Robert WESTERN DISTRICT Dr. Robert Carpenter Jr.
Kudos to GDA 50-Year Members One half-century ago, as these doctors joined the GDA, humans were making strides toward space travel beyond Earth’s orbit. The Beatles took America by storm. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 was signed into law. Boxer Cassius Clay became Muhammad Ali and the heavyweight champion of the world. Meanwhile, Hasbro launched the first “action figures,” a line of four World War II-themed G.I. Joe dolls. CENTRAL DISTRICT Dr. Thomas Davidson Jr. Dr. William Shipp EASTERN DISTRICT Dr. Thomas Henson II Dr. Bartow Parkerson Jr. Dr. David Pashley NORTHERN DISTRICT Dr. Joseph Alderman Jr. Dr. William Brinkman Dr. Phillip Bush Dr. Charles Christian Jr. Dr. Morton Dimenstein Dr. Thomas Harvey Dr. John Horvath Dr. Henry Leibowitz Dr. Suhayl Rafeedie Dr. William Reagin Dr. Zale Smilack Dr. Edward Sugarman Dr. Nick Tissura NORTHWESTERN DISTRICT Dr. John Barlow Dr. Jerry Capps Dr. Ken Farrar Jr. Dr. Robert Lazerson Dr. Ben Pridemore Jr. Dr. Edgar Rambo Dr. James Tate SOUTHEASTERN DISTRICT Dr. Lloyd Darby III Dr. William Gustin Dr. Jules Paderewski
In Memoriam: Dentists Who Have Passed Away The GDA extends sympathy to the family and colleagues of these doctors. Jack P. Buchanan, DMD, of Western District who died July 21, 2014, at the age of 66. He was a 1975 Medical College of Georgia School of Dentistry graduate and a general dentist in Columbus. C. Samuel Graham Jr., DDS, of Northern District who died August 12, 2014, at the age of 69. He was a 1975 Emory University School of Dentistry graduate and a general dentist in Lawrenceville. He was an American Dental Association Life Member. John Nolan McGarity, DDS, of Central District who died August 7, 2014, at the age of 92. He was a 1951 Emory University School of Dentistry graduate. Dr. Nolan was a veteran of World War II, serving in the Army Aircorp, 8th Airforce. He practiced dentistry for three years at the Central State Hospital in Milledgeville before establishing a general practice in Fort Valley where he
Frank D. Sanders Jr., DDS, of Northern District who died August 11, 2014, at the age of 90. He was a 1951 Loyola University School of Dentistry graduate who practiced privately for 15 years before earning a Masters of Public Health from the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. The WWII veteran then joined the State of Georgia Department of Public Health working in various capacities in the Dental Health Office until his retirement in 1996. Dr. Sanders was instrumental in the fluoridation of water supplies across Georgia.
Do your patients suffer from any of these symptoms? Head Pain
Forehead • Temples Migraine-type Sinus-type
Ear Ear pain • Ringing in ears Dizziness • Vertigo
Eyes
Jaw
Pain behind eye Blood-shot eyes Sensitive to light
Clicking, popping jaw joints Pain in cheek • Limited opening
Teeth
Neck
Clenching/grinding at night Looseness and soreness of back teeth
Lack of mobility/stiffness Neck pain • Tired/sore muscles Arm/finger numbness
Visit us online at w w w.tmdatlanta.com to download a referral form and learn more about our services! Manoj Maggan
SOUTHWESTERN DISTRICT Dr. Mitchell Flynn Dr. Gary Nichols WESTERN DISTRICT Dr. Blake Lane Jr.
practiced for more than 30 years. He was an American Dental Association Life Member. Donations may be made to the Fort Valley United Methodist Church, Carlyle Place in Macon, or a charity of choice.
DDS, DABDSM, DABCP, DAAPM, FICCMO, FAACP
3590 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, GA 30005
Center for TMJ Therapy
770.521.1978 phone • 770.521.9936 fax www.tmdatlanta.com • office@tmdatlanta.com
If your patients have any of these symptoms and are not responding to treatments, they may be suffering from a TMJ disorder. Problems within the jaw can produce a myriad of symptoms that, at first glance, might appear to be totally unrelated to the temporomandibular complex. Our dedicated team of professionals have years of training and are happy to assist you in the diagnosis and treatment of possible craniomandibular/ temporomandibular disorders. September 2014 • 39
GDACALENDAR GDA OFFICER VISITS TO DISTRICTS Oct 7: Eastern District, Washington, GA. Oct 21: Western District, Columbus. Oct 27: Northern District, 103 West, Atlanta. Jan 16: Southwestern District, Tifton. Jan 23: Southeastern District, Savannah. LEGISLATIVE RECEPTIONS Oct 28: Eastern District (Augusta). Nov 6: Southwestern District (Albany). Nov 11: Western District. Nov 13: Southwestern District (Valdosta). Nov 18: Eastern District (Athens). Dec 3: Northwestern District. Dec 4: Central District. Dec 9: Hall County Branch (Northern). Dec 10: Northern District. Dec 18: Southeastern District.
Oct 18: GDA Board of Trustees Meeting, Augusta. The Board members look forward to visiting the CODM and seeing faculty and staff at the meeting.
CONTINUING EDUCATION EVENTS Oct 9-12: 155th ADA Annual Session. Oct 15: Northern District, Dr. Wayne Kerr. GDA & OTHER DENTAL MEETINGS Oct 18: GDA Board of Trustees, Augusta. Nov 3: Northern District Executive Council. Nov 9: Fisher Dental Education Foundation. Jan 5: Northern District Executive Council. Jan 10: GDA Board of Trustees Meeting. Jan 11: GDA House of Delegates. Mar 2: Northern District Executive Council.
Multiple Dates in 2015: GDA LAW Days at the Capitol. Invest the time to make a difference for your patients and profession under the Gold Dome.
GDA OFFICE CLOSURES Nov 27-28: Thanksgiving Holiday. Dec 24-26: Christmas Holiday. Jan 1-2: New Year Holiday. SPECIAL DENTAL EVENTS Nov 14: GDA Spokespersons Training. Jan 12: Opening Day of State Legislature. Jan 28: LAW Day—GRU students, Gold Dome. Feb 4: LAW Day—Gold Dome, Atlanta. Feb 6: Give Kids a Smile Day, Statewide. Feb 11: LAW Day—Gold Dome, Atlanta. Feb 18: LAW Day—Gold Dome, Atlanta. Feb 25: LAW Day—Gold Dome, Atlanta. Feb 26: LAW Day—Gold Dome, Atlanta. Mar 4: LAW Day—Gold Dome, Atlanta. Mar 11: LAW Day—Gold Dome, Atlanta. Mar 18: LAW Day—Gold Dome, Atlanta. Mar 25: LAW Day—Gold Dome, Atlanta. 40 • September 2014
Jan 12: Opening Day of the State Legislature / Dental Health Day. GDA and Alliance volunteers will distribute dental care kits to legislators and staff, then meet for a photo on the Capitol steps. The opening day of the session is typically the day that the Governor declares as Dental Health Day in the state. Come help the GDA celebrate!
GDAPROMOTIONS Plan now for that spooky time in October when sticky sweets haunt kids’ mouths! Get your Operation Sweet Tooth Kit at www.gadental.org with handouts, games, and social media tips and tricks! Has your office ever participated in a Halloween Candy BuyBack Event with Operation Gratitude? Participating offices “buy back” candy from children in the community and send the candy to members of the armed services. The GDA web site shares details on how dentists can sign up as a BuyBack office and tips on making your BuyBack Event go as smoothly as melted chocolate. Other offices may not participate in Operation Gratitude, but decide instead to swap candy collected from children in the community for toothbrushes or gift cards to local businesses. Visit the GDA web site for a flyer you can customize and share with local businesses to get a candy swap program running. Visit the GDA site for Halloween-themed oral health education templates, trivia, and recipes you can share on your Twitter, Facebook, and other social media platforms to promote your practice and good oral health during this tooth-tacklingly sweet time of the year. Have you considered opening your office as a trick-or-treating stop? If not on the night itself, you might want to advertise that your practice will distribute healthy treats or small toys for little ones who come in costume in the week before Halloween. (You can give parents toothbrushes or oral health information.) Perhaps you can ask neighboring businesses to take part as well. Does your office staff dress up on Halloween day? Do you decorate the office leading up to Halloween or get into the
Start planning today: 1) Visit www.gadental.org. 2) Click GDA Services. 3) Click Practice Promotions in the drop down menu. 4) Log in as a GDA member. 4) Start downloading stuff. 5) Email admin@gadental. org or call (800) 432-4357 for assistance. spooky spirit in another way, such as having a pumpkin carving contest for staff or patients? Have your staff dress up ahead of time and use that photo in your marketing materials! Visit the GDA site for tips on getting information about practice events to local media. The GDA web site contains links to oral health information suitable for young patients and parents. Visit the new
promotional page this September to prepare for a frightfully fun and productive October! The GDA would love to see photos from your BuyBack or other Halloweenthemed events! Upload them to the GDA Facebook.com page or email them to admin@gadental.org. We will post the best images on the GDA web site and in GDA Action. September 2014 • 41
GDAINFOGRAPHIC The Georgia Dental Association presents your Infographic for September, one that offers you a glimpse of some demographic information about members. There are more general dentists than specialists as current members, just as there are in nationwide practice, but specialists are well-represented. The Northern District is the largest district overall. If you added the members from the other districts together, their membership would equal 2,016 versus the 1,404 held by the Northern District. If the GDA Alliance dental spouses organization were a district, they would be the third largest. Graduates from the Medical College of Georgia / Georgia Health Sciences University / Georgia Regents University College of Dental Medicine rule the roost as GDA members, with some 1,230 members educated at that Augusta program. In second place in numbers are GDA members who graduated from the Emory University School of Dentistry, although they have had more dental alums serve as GDA presidents in the last 20 years. Third place in membership is held by graduates from the University of Tennessee, followed by graduates from the University of Alabama. Looks like Rocky Top is holding sway over Roll Tide in this competition, although the schools are tied in the number of GDA presidents they have produced in the last 20 years (Dr. Howard Jones hails from Alabama and Dr. Bill Broadfoot is a Tennessee graduate.)
42 • September 2014
MYGDA
“It is critical to get involved and stay involved in organized dentistry early in your careers.” “From one new dentist to another, let me say: it is critical to get involved and stay involved in organized dentistry early in your careers. We have such a wonderful GDA staff that really does work their tails off to keep our profession protected and make it the best it can be. I encourage each of you to go to your district meetings, attend a LAW Day, and come to the GDA Annual Meeting. These are great ways to earn CE credits too. Consider becoming involved in leadership positions within your district. And be on the lookout for GDA New Dentist events around the state! We are the future of our profession. Let’s do all we can to make sure it stays strong!”
Membership is a bright idea at any stage of practice! Share your MyGDA story! Email Delaine Hall at hall@gadental.org or call the GDA at (800) 432-4357.
Joining the ADA, GDA, and your district society makes a difference for your patients and profession. This issue highlights some of the valuable products and services you can access as a member. See more on the value of joining and share your My GDA story at www.gadental.org.
Dr. Katie Garvin GDA New Dentist Liaison (with Dr. Cameron Garvin, GDA Central District President Elect) September 2014 • 43
PLACING A CLASSIFIED AD 1.) AD FORM: Submit ads on a GDA Classified Advertisement Form. To obtain a form, call Skip Jones at (800) 432-4357 or (404) 636-7553, or email jones@gadental.org. 2.) DUE DATE: ALL ads and prepayments are due by the first of the month before the publication month (i.e., Dec. 1 for January). 3.) DENTIST RATES: ADA member dentists pay $75.00 per 60-word ad per month. There is a 50 cents perword charge for each word over 60. Non-ADA member dentists may not advertise in GDA Action. 4.) CORPORATE RATES: Non-dentistowned companies (real estate firms, banks, etc.) pay $195 per 60-word ad per month. There is a 50 cents perword charge for each word over 60. 5.) FORMS OF PAYMENT: Ads are payable by check (made payable to GDA), money order, Visa, or MasterCard. Per the GDA Finance Committee, a surcharge of $5 will be applied to any credit card transaction. 6.) PRINT ADS ON WEB SITE: Prepaid ads for the print GDA Action will appear on the GDA Web site www. gadental.org for the month the advertisement appears in print. There is no additional charge for the Web ad. 7.) BANNER ADS ON WEB SITE: Advertisers who purchase a classifed or display advertisement may purchase an add-on banner advertisement on the GDA web site www.gadental. org. See the advertising guide on the GDA web site for pricing and details.
GDACLASSIFIEDS DENTAL SERVICES GEORGIA X-RAY SAFETY CERTIFICATION FOR DENTAL ASSISTANTS: They take it ONLINE in the convenience of their home and off the clock, saving you money. Make sure your assistants are working legal and safe, for both them and your patients. The training is required by law. Order your course now at www.gaxray.com or email drh20s@uga.edu for more information.
DENTISTS AVAILABLE Dentist (Temp Fill In). DEA# and insured; GA, FL, AL licensed. Private practice (solo & group), military experience. E-mail: drglassdmd@yahoo.com or call cell (770) 656-5269 or (770) 380-7487. Dentist will fill in for illness, vacation, or continuing education. Licensed, insured, DEA #. Call (404) 786-0229 or email breighard@gmail.com. DENTIST: Need Part Time Fill In? Vacation, Illness, Maternity? GENERAL DENTIST SOLD LONG ESTABLISHED PRACTICE. GA & DEA LICENSED. (Available Expanded Atlanta Area.) Cell: (404) 219-4097. Home: (404) 842-1196. Jesse Hader, DDS. Dentist available during emergencies, vacation, CDE courses. I have a current license, DEA certificate, and insurance. Contact me at (706) 291-2254 or cell (706) 802-7760. I hope I can be of service to you. Patrick A. Parrino, DDS, MAGD.
POSITIONS AVAILABLE Busy Warner Robins practice has an immediate opening for a full time Associate. Established practice with large active patient base. Extremely high earning potential. Walk into a full schedule with no patient development necessary. Stable experienced staff. Koch & Crossley, LLC. Phone: (478) 923-6449. Fax (478) 923-2520 careers@drlaurakoch.com. J. Lee Amason, DMD seeks associate to join his thriving practice in Kennesaw, GA. Part-time position with possible advancement to full-time. Dr. Amason is
44 • September 2014
affiliated with the Pankey Institute and is highly focused on patient care! Fax resume to: (770) 429-1610 or contact Mrs. Brooks (770) 361-8084 or email: info@amasonfamilydentistry.com. Alpharetta, GA: Responsible for the review and final adjudication of claims and pretreatment estimates. Pre-determinations and re-evaluation requests for orthodontic treatment that require professional review. Provides assistance to managing Dental Consultant and Dental Director. A DDS or DMD degree from a accredited dental school. A minimum of 5 years of private practice dentistry. Holds active and unencumbered license. Email inquires to k.crsimore@deltadentalpa.org. Pediatric or General Dentist needed. Greensboro, GA — a golf and lake resort community (Lake Oconee), convenient to Atlanta and Augusta, GA, just off I-20. The Greensboro office is a National Health Service Corp Site for a Scholar or Loan Repayment candidate, HPSA Score 19. Full-time or part-time employment, medical benefits, and paid vacation offered in addition to salary. Email resumes to: lakeoconeesmile@bellsouth.net. For additional information please contact Reshaunda Hull at (706) 454-2222. Orthodontist and Oral Surgeon: Talented Orthodontist and Oral Surgeon are needed part time or full time to join a growing high end group dental practice with locations throughout North Atlanta. Schedule can be flexible or set days. Strong patient base, modern facilities. Please email resume to: frontdesk6615@gmail.com. Great Expressions Dental Centers has openings for full-time General Dentists in our Atlanta, GA offices. Our dentists have clinical freedom and autonomy without the financial or administrative burdens associated with practice management. Dentists can expect unlimited production based earnings, benefits, time off, malpractice coverage, stable patient base, and long-term practice career growth with possible investment opportunity. Sign-on bonus possible as well! Please reach out to Ross Shoemaker @ (678) 836-2226 or ross.shoemaker@greatexpressions to apply!
Part-Time Associate Dentist Needed: We have an outstanding Part Time opportunity for a general dentist in our successful, well respected, quality oriented private dental practice in the Alpharetta / Canton area. We are seeking a special, motivated, enthusiastic, personable general dentist to join our practice. This opportunity can transition into a full time position with potential partnership opportunities for the right candidate. We offer excellent compensation and benefits. For additional information, please send CV to resumesdental@yahoo.com. Full time associate dentist wanted for a multi-dentist, fee for service, high tech cosmetic restorative general practice located in Midtown Atlanta. We are a dental team dedicated to helping patients get healthy aesthetic dentitions through the use of the latest dental technology and quality dental labs. Our office is a Preferred Provider of Invisalign. CEREC and all ceramic restorations are the dominant restoration produced in our practice. We are completely digital and approaching paperless. All doctor operatories are equipped with the latest ADEC equipment, W&H electric handpieces, digital x-rays, LED lights. Computers with CAESY patient education systems in 10 operatories. We use Cone Beam technology to help diagnose and treatment plan implant surgeries. Most all implant surgeries are completed in our office by a qualified implantologist and are subsequently restored by the associate doctors. We have an abundance of new patients. We are expanding and need another associate dentist to work Tues-Sat. Interested parties please submit your CV via email to officemgr@drbenk.com. Bryant Family Dental is interested in an associate. GPR experience. To turn into a 50% owner in next 18 months with full transition in 5 years. Interested in like-minded, patient-oriented individual with aspirations of ownership. Base + bonus structure with transition planning beginning immediately. ADEC equipment, Digital Panorex, Softdent Operating System. Building 12 years old. Over $1.2M collections with fantastic overhead. Call (803) 279-1880 or visit www. bryantfamilydental.com for details. No Brokers. Expanding Dental Group Seeking Dentists for our Atlanta-Based Practices! We want you to join our growing team and enjoy a large, built-in patient referral base, clinical autonomy, advanced technology, a profes-
sional support team, paid time–off, competitive compensation and signing bonuses! We provide specialty & general dentistry to patients of all ages and offer pediatric conscious IV sedation and adult sedation dentistry. Immediate openings available for recent grads, general dentists, and / or pediatric dentists in our expanding Lilburn, Dacula, and Gainesville pedo practices. Potential for more hours if willing to travel. FT / PT positions available now. Immediate opening for an experienced general dentist in our adult and teen zone Lilburn and Gainesville locations. PT position available now but potential for FT. Immediate openings for an experienced general dentist & endo / perio specialists in our Lilburn & Gainesville locations. PT available now. Please email cover letters and CVs to hr@tebodental.com. For more information, please visit us at www. tebodental.com. ASSOCIATESHIPS: Atlanta, Decatur, Johns Creek. Richane Swedenburg, New South Dental Transitions: (770) 630-0436. Check new listings, www.newsouthdental.com. Email info@newsouthdental.com. Full-time associate needed for busy General Dentist office in Warner Robins, Georgia (1.7m). Opportunity for a motivated Dentist to join our team with option to buy. Email resume to ceadds1@gmail.com. Smile Programs is looking for Georgia dentists who love working with children and enjoy daily travel. The program runs Monday-Friday. No evenings or weekends. Holidays and summers off. We offer an excellent compensation structure and have both full and part-time opportunities. Help us make a difference in the lives of children! For more information and to apply, visit www.smileprograms.com. Outstanding associate opportunity for a General Dentist to join our highly successful practice in Woodstock, GA. This is a non-chain dental practice with an emphasis on serving children & adults. Our success comes from doing what is best for our patient, and an extreme focus on a positive company culture and employee support. Great practice environment & culture; Continually trained & dedicated staff to support you; No day-to-day headaches of practice management; Full Digital; Well-established 30(+) year patient base & growing; Strong internal systems for increased efficiency bringing you, the doctor, the opportunity to
see patients in a productive, yet quality driven manner. 100% doctor support when and where you need it. Please submit resumes to reggieworkws@yahoo.com. ATLANTA — ASSOCIATE DENTIST, ENDODONTIST, and PERIODONTIST NEEDED. We currently have three positions available in our quality-oriented, well-established group practice with multiple locations. This is a very lucrative opportunity for an experienced candidate with good interpersonal skills. Large patient base / referral base with abundant new patients each month. Well appointed, beautiful office including CAD / CAM and the latest technology for general dentistry, state of the art surgical suites for periodontics, and new microscope for endodontics. We have successful systems in place, including an exceptional team of assistants and support staff. Come be a part of our team and join us in creating an atmosphere of excellence, fun, and productivity. Email resumes to 1careerinfo@gmail.com. GEORGIA — ATLANTA. Multiple pediatric dental offices in Metro Atlanta are seeking pediatric dentists and general dentists to work in an extremely successful, expanding business. We offer a team motivated working environment and a competitive salary. We believe in a high level of patient and parent education and making sure that children have an excellent dental experience at each visit. Our practice provides all levels of care, including oral sedation, IV sedation, and general anesthesia at local hospitals. Candidate must have excellent communication skills, be enthusiastic and motivated. For more information please call (678) 923-4466 or email brian.friedman@dentistry4children. com. Visit our web site at www.dentistry4children.com.
SPACE AVAILABLE
Gwinnett Pediatric Dental office for sale or transition, established 1989. In 2013 did $633K in 2-3 day work week with no Peachcare patients. Six chairs, @3500 square feet, digital x-rays and Pan, fully computerized in 11 year old modern building owned
GDA Classifieds
Continued on page 46 September 2014 • 45
GDA Classifieds
Continued from page 45 by seller, with adjacent ortho office in building. Stable, well trained staff. Please reply with your background and goals to pingricken@aol.com. Space for possible future lease adjacent to Gwinnett Pediatric Dental practice. Space is @2500 square feet that has been an ongoing Orthodontic practice for almost 10 years. Space may become available in February 2015. Great spot to move existing office or open a satellite practice. Would also be good location for a General Dentist or other specialist perhaps. Newly renovated. Please reply with your background and goals to pingricken@aol.com. Dental Space for Specialist in Greater Atlanta! Stockbridge, Fayetteville, Duluth, Dunwoody, Woodstock, Stone Mountain, and Riverdale locations. Ideal for Pediatric Dentist, Periodontist, Endodontist, or Oral Surgeon looking to add satellite location or new startup. Already plumbed & fully equipped with 5 operatories and room for 2-3 more. Save time & build-out costs! Contact us at: dentalspecialist2@gmail.com. Dental Space Available! Duluth, GA — Already built-out and plumbed with dental equipment! Convenient location located off Sugarloaf Parkway near I-85. Built in 2007. Up to 6 operatories if needed, sterilization, consultation room, kitchen, front office, and private doctor office. Split design dental space perfect for new dentist or specialist satellite office. Upscale building in a high growth area with excellent demographics. Move in ready! Contact: Dr. Aubrey Scher at (404) 384-8800. AVAILABLE: ALPHARETTA: Beautiful 6 operatory office grossing $600K. ROSWELL: Great starter practice grossing $297K, retiring doctor, free-standing building. CONYERS: $700K, 20 hours / week. NORCROSS: Partnership in $1.3 million, 6 operatories, GP focusing on implants. GORDON COUNTY: Grossing $430K; freestanding building. Contact Richane Swedenburg, New South Dental Transitions: (770) 630-0436 or info@newsouthdental.com. Check new listings at www.newsouthdental.com.
46 • September 2014
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September 2014 • 47
Journal of the Georgia Dental Association 7000 Peachtree Dunwoody Road NE Suite 200, Building 17, Atlanta, GA 30328 INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Your Member Resource Guide 2014-15 GDA Sourcebook October Practice Promotions