March 2011 TDA TODAY

MARCH JUNE, 20082011

VOLUME9, 12, ISSUE VOLUME ISSUE 63

AVAILABLE ONLINE ATAT TDA.ORG AVAILABLE ONLINE TDA.ORG

Texas Member MedicaidMatters Providers Can Now Enroll for Health Inside Every Inside IT Incentive Payments

Rise’ Lyman, DDS, TDA Future Focus Committee

Texas Legislature

Medicaid in My Office?

This is the fourth in a series of articles to keep you informed of the Federal Registration Membership growth(EHR) is vitalIncentive to any thriving The Texas Association (TDA) stronglyProvider Yes, I TDA Testifies Texas Medicaid Electronic Health Record Programorganization.

To register withDental the CMS, all providers mustBoard have aisNational Think So! to the Membership goal within the “TDA 2009” plan, which addresses continued growth.

TDA Presents Award and continuing effortscommitted to implement health information exchange Identifier.

Tostrategic begin your registration, go to: https://ehrincentives.cms.gov/hitech/.

Richard M. Smith, DDS I am proud to report that, as evidence of that commitment and for the second year in a row, the TDA received initiatives across Texas. The incentive program provides incentive payments

CMS has published a Registration User Guide for Medicaid Eligible Smiles Foundation the following ADA awards to Medicaid providers for the adoption and meaningful usein of 2008: certified EHR Professionals that has step-by-step instructions for registering. An information TDA TDA Smiles Foundation • Greatest Percentage Membership Net Gain: Texas had a net gain of 198 members in the year 2007.

TMOM gains ardent advocate technology. Future articles will focus on helpful reference web sites, health center also is available 7:30 AM – 6:30 PM CST Monday through Friday at • Top Constituent Dental Society with Greatest Percentage of Non-Members to Membership: Smiles on Wheels, McCamey information exchange, meaningful use for dentists, certified EHR technology (888) 734-6433 or (888) 734-6563 (TTY number). Providers also may submit Represents a conversion of 4.7 percent of non-members into membership at end of year 2007. the President A&M Leads Bragging Rights for dental practices, and other relevant topics of interest to dentists and health an inquiry to the EHR Information Center online.

Ask Incoming President’s information technology (IT). • Top Constituent Dental Society to Improve Retention Rate Percentage in 2007: Represents a 97 Campaign message percent Association retention rate,iswhich is anState increase 7 percent from the previous year.

LevelofRegistration Israelson, DDS

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) • Greatest Percentage New Members: a gain of 111 new dentist Represents Dentists who register with CMS willmembers receive an(those e-mail inviting them to Hilton helping dentists and other health care providers sign upoffor newDentist incentive dentists who are 1-9 years out of school). initiate participation in the Texas program.

Perks Partner News payments for using electronic health records.

Talk Providers must be enrolled in Texas Medicaid before participating in the

Let’s Another of theelectronic commitment to the growth of our is the TDA Externship Program, which builds student awareness

Dentists example who establish health record systems thatAssociation meet Outgoing President’s message program.toEnrolled providers use the login information provided of organized dentistry.

Thisup innovative program, createdincentive in 2007,payments offers studentsincentive the opportunity gain insight into will the different components federal standards can earn to $63,750 in Medicaid MK’s Board Notes by TMHP to access the incentive program portal.

The portal can be found of organized and regulatory affairs, membership, governance, continuing education, and charitable dentistry and over 6 years. dentistry Providersincluding can beginlegislative participating in the program now, and A. David May, Jr., DDS the provider’s account tmhp.com byeach following to better understanding as future leaders of the dental team. through The program is open to dentalinstudents from of thethese threesteps: thegain firstapayments are expectedofintheir Mayrole 2011.

TEXAS 2008-2009 TDAMeeting Board of Preview Directors dental schools in Texas.

This year externship will takeorplace June 201. – June in Austin at the TDA central office.

“The incentive payments arethe a good way forprogram small practices doctors Go 27 to “My Account”.

As an ongoing effort to enhance the value andtheir benefits of the Association, Council Membership developed a survey that was sent in rural areas to make changes that will benefit patients and the state,”the TDA 2. Scroll to on “Manage Provider Accounts”. to all members 2006. The results clearlysays. showed that members a high satisfaction rating as the TEXAS Meeting, TDAEHR IncentiveMeet Texas MedicaidinDirector Billy Millwee “Having electronichave records Your TDA Staff 3. The lastwith itembenefits on thesuch list should be “Texas Medicaid

Ron’s Ruminations publications, andeasier the ability to participate philanthropically in the TDA they Smiles Foundation.

A great number of the discounted offered to to access the makes it much to ensure that doctors have all the information

Program”. If the link is not available,programs the person trying new Finance Director TDA’s members through the TDA Program also received a high satisfaction rating. In accordance with the strategic the Council on Membership, need about a patient whenPerks making treatment decisions.” site is not designated as aplan, provider administrator in the TMHP portal Dee Delagarza Dee Evidence-based Practice will survey members again in 2009.

system.

How to Participate: Participation from all members and a collaborative effort between the ADA, TDA, and local component societies are the keys to Tip of the Month Congratulations to TDA

Providers must firstrecruitment register with Centers for I go for help? it is by attending local meetings, successful membership andtheretention.

WeMedicare encourage&every memberWhere to get can involved whether Medicaid at the federal level to start their registration CMS has detailed information the Medicaid program at www. Component Societies taking partServices in Give(CMS) Kids a Smile!

Day activities, volunteering at a Texas Mission of Mercy, or participating in TDA for Legislative Day activities TSBDE Rule Update process.

Once registered at the federal level, the provider will receive an cms.gov/EHRIncentivePrograms.

For help in the Texas enrollment process, in Austin. Each member matters and is essential to the continued growth of our Association and of organized dentistry. e-mail to begin participation at the state level. e-mail HealthIT@tmhp.com or call (800) 925-9126.

Streamline Your Insurance Claims This is the seventh and final in a series of articles focused on the TDA’s accomplishments guided by the strategic plan. To view the entire plan, log in at www.tda.org and click on “TDA 2009” under “Current Issues” on the member homepage. For more information, please contact Lyda Creus Inup theconfirmation News Speeding of benefits Molanphy, staff liaison to the Future Focus Committee, at the TDA central office, (512) 443-3675.

(L-R) Pictured at the 2011 TDA and eligibility

TDA Legislative Day 2011

Legislative Day at the Texas Capitol are Dr. Gary E. Finch of Richmond, TSBDE Rule Update Dr. James D. Condrey of Missouri City, Texas Rep. John Zerwas Requirements for dental office (R-Richmond), Dr. S. Jerry Long of radiograph machines Houston, and Dr. Trever E. Keele of Houston.

Membership Can I Use Chlorhexidine

Dentists from around the state many of Mand ission : their To spouses be The Voice of DenTisTry in Texas took part in a very successful TDA Legislative Day in Austin on February 23, 2011. Prior to visiting legislators at the State Capitol, approximately 250 attendees met at the Stephen F. Public Organizational Development Manpower Austin Intercontinental Hotel Advocacy for a short program.

In the News Image Excellence

At the hotel, TDA president Dr. Ronald Rhea welcomed as the in Only Irrigating TDA members the news participants to the event. The TDA was honored to have Texas Membership Solution in my Endodontic Comptroller Susanvalue Combs and Lieutenant Governor David Dentists will membership and participation in the TDA. Treatments?

Dewhurst address the assembly on issues related to the current Objectives legislative session. perceived Comptroller Combs expert into in TDA. 1. Improve value and gave benefits of insight membership Tooth Whitening: A Clinical Review Fritz Heitmann: Hunter, state revenue, the rainy day fund, and the biennial budget. a. Increase members’ knowledge about the impact and benefits of TDA membership.

(Left) Texas Comptroller of Public Lieutenant addressed thataspect face of the membership process.

Dentist, Hardware Baron, b. Governor Ensure Dewhurst that components arechallenges an integral Accounts Susan Combs offers insight TDA Historical Perspectives lawmakers funding, of thethe proposed shift to c. including Create Medicaid greater awareness availability of the Peer Review, Ethics & Judicial, and Risk Management benefits. into state revenue, the rainy day Houston Leader Dentists, dental hygienists, and the dental managed care, and the future of Texas’tooral Both fund, and the biennial budget at d. Actively promote adherence thehealth.

Code of Ethics. speakers e. took Enhance questions communication from the audience. the 2011 TDA Legislative Daydental in team with members and non-members.

Austin.

Following the guest speakers, Dr. Richard Black, chair of f. Build student awareness of and interest in organized dentistry and membership in TDA. TDA’s Council on Legislative Regulatory Affairs, and TDA The 2007 C.T. Rowland Award g. Ensure ongoingand contact with students throughout dental school.

(Right) Texas Lieutenant Governor staff reviewed the Association’s legislative agenda and answered Orthodontic case report h. Work closely with dental school faculty.

David Dewhurst addresses attendees questionsi.regarding specific legislative issues. Dr. David Sibley, Evaluate number of nonmember dentists who attend and participate in TDA activities (TEXAS Meeting, TDA Smiles at the 2011 TDA Legislative Day in April 1 & 2 TDA lead legislative consultant, followed Austin. He discussed the challenges Foundation programs, etc.).with advice on efforts The El Paso TDADental Board Conference Meeting to maximize facing lawmakers during this session, Metrics the effectiveness of legislative visits. including Medicaid funding and the Austin 1.At the Texaspercent Capitol, visited within TX will be members of TDA by 2009 (baseline of 68.5% in January 2007); Seventy ofparticipants active licensed dentists increase proposed shift to dental managed care. legislators and staff regarding the TDA legislative agenda. membership retention rate to 97 percent by April 2007 (baseline 96% in 2006).

Materiala-d. discussed included opposition to insurance Pictured Increase the number of dentists serving on component peer review and ethics and judicial affairs committees to attain a at the 2011 TDA April 15 & 16 companies capping fees for non-covered services, Legislative Day at the Texas Capitol AugustTexas 14: Mission of Mercy participation rate of 2-5 percent relative to the total number of component society members by August 2009. are (L-R back) Dr. Larry D. Herwig strengthening against individuals practicing 2. Ninetyenforcement percent of TX dental school graduates actively licensed in TX will be members of TDA five years after graduation (89% TDA Board Meeting of Dallas, Dr. Arlet R. Dunsworth Dallas dentistrydental without a license, opposition thegraduating proposed class of 2005 in Texas). student conversion fromtothe of Dallas, Dr. Lee P. Oneacre ofAustin, Texas shift3.to dental managed care, of opposition to hygienists Increase the number member dentists actively participating in TDA by 1 percent a year (as measured by a variety of means Carollton, Dr. Hilton Israelson administering local anesthetic, and funding for the Texas FSI programs, DENPAC participations, TDA legislative day) with annual of Richardson, (L-R front) Ms. – participation at TX Meeting, TMOM, TXDDS, October 15-19: Oral Health Program.

Kathryn Stuart, Texas Rep. Cindy report to TDA Board by the Council on Membership.

Burkett (R-Mesquite), Dr. Michael 4.A special word of thanks goes to members of the Alliance ADA Annual Session Establish baseline of nonmember participation at TDA activities (CAS, TDA Smiles Foundation, Membership) L. Stuart of Sunnyvale, and Dr. of the TDA for their hard work on assembling and distributing San Antonio, Texas 5. Established baseline of members’ understanding of and satisfaction with the benefits of their TDA membership through Member Wayne Woods of Dallas. the goodie bags that to legislators and staff. Nov 2006), re-evaluate % increase at that time for 2009.

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Sixty-five percent of all full-time faculty will be TDA members by 2009 (2006 baseline = 63%).

TDA Extension Building Opens

The TDA will update it’s strategic plan open with statewide retreat in August of

The renovated TDA Extension Building is officially andanother in use. The building sits adjacent to the TDA headquarters in Austin, and a ribbon cutting on February 23, 2011, inaugurated its opening.

More than 100 TDA members, dental students, and component society staff attended the open house which was held the same day as TDA Legislative Day at the Texas Capitol. This allowed out-of-town members to tour the new facility which houses a state-of-the-art, multi-functional conference center serving the TDA Board, council and committees and for hosting special TDA events. The building will be available for rental by other associations and organizations.

The 2010 House of Delegates approved the renovation of the building was purchased by the Association in December In 2003, which Texas Dental Association members from across the state2007. develop TDA’s first strategic plan, TDA 2009.

Clickwww.groups.to/texasdental & Connect

Pictured at last month’s TDA Extension Ribbon Cutting Ceremony 2008.are (L-R back) contractor Mr. UpdateFollow Profile us on Twitter Richard Galbraith, architect Ms. twitter.com/theTDA tda.org – Membership Info Wendy Rosamond, TDA Building Committee members Drs. Glenda F. Smith, Jeran J. Hooten and J.Ask a Colleague Get LinkedIN Kavin Kelp, all of Austin, (L-R tda.org – Features linkedin.com, search “Texas front) TDA director of member services Ms. Lee Ann Johnson, TDA Dental Association” TEXAS Meeting Photos executive director Ms. Mary Kay Linn, TDA Building Committee texasmeeting.com/estore chair Dr. Paul E. Stubbs of March TDJ Georgetown, TDA president Dr. Volunteer for ‘08 ADA Ronald L. Rhea of Houston, and tda.org/tdapublications TDA president-elect Dr. J. Preston tda.org/volunteerada08 Coleman of San Antonio.

TDA Testifies Before the State Senate Subcommittee on Medicaid On February 22, 2011, Dr. Richard Black, chair of the TDA’s Council on Legislative & Regulatory Affairs, testified before the State Senate Subcommittee on Medicaid regarding potential reductions in funding for the Medicaid dental program as part of the Health and Human Services Commission’s cost containment proposals.

Dr. Black advised the committee about the negative consequences from reducing Medicaid dental provider rates and changing the Medicaid dental delivery model to an HMO-style managed care model. He focused upon possible decreases in accessing dental care and the diminished ability of individual, non-corporate, dental providers to continue delivering dental care to Medicaid children.

To view the hearing, please go to http://www.senate.state.tx.us/avarchive/ and scroll down to “February 22nd Senate Subcommittee on Medicaid: Part 1” and click on “February 22nd.” Dr. Black’s testimony starts at approximately 1.28.26.

TDA Testifies Before the State House Public Health Committee On February 23, 2011, TDA past president Dr. Matthew B. Roberts testified before the State House Committee on Public Health regarding access to dental care in Texas, possible reductions to Medicaid dental provider rates, changing the Medicaid dental delivery model to an HMO-style managed care model, reducing CHIP dental funding, eliminating funding for the Children’s Medicaid Loan Repayment Program, and eliminating funding for the Texas Department of State Health Services Oral Health Program.

He also highlighted the TDA’s successful Head Start Dental Home Initiative and the significant amount of charitable dental care delivered by Texas dentists.

To view the hearing, please go to http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/ and click on “Legislature Activity Video Broadcasts House.” From that webpage click on “82 Session” under archived broadcasts. Then click on “Public Health February 23rd 12:00 PM to 4:44PM.” Dr. Robert’s testimony starts at approximately 3.35.50.

Additionally, Health and Human Services Executive Commissioner Mr. Tom Suehs testified regarding the Frew v Suehs (formerly Frew v Hawkins) Hawkins) settlement agreement and its impact on improving access to dental services. Com. Suehs told the committee that the Frew rate increases to certain dental codes caused a “major increase” in access to dental services.

To view Com. Suehs testimony, please go to http://ww www ww ww. w.capitol.state.tx.us/ and click on “L “ eg egi gis isla l tu t re r Acti t vity ti t Vi ty V de d o Bro r adc ro dca dc cas asts t Ho H use.”

From that webpage click on “82 Session” under archived broadcasts. Then click on “P “Pu Publi l c He li Hea ealt lth th Fe F bruary r 23 ry 2 rd r 8:00 AM A to t 9:59 5 AM 59 A .”

C m. Su Co S eh e s’ te tes esti tim imony n sta ny t rts ta t at ap ts app ppro rox oxim i ate t ly te l 1:5 :55 :5 55: 5:2 :23 23.

Perks Adds Three New Programs The TDA Financial Services Board of Directors approved two new TDA Perks programs at its March 4 meeting in Austin, as well as expanded its endorsement of an existing program. Look for information regarding The Glove Group and Sedation Resource, Inc., as well as Managed Backup Solutions and Data Security’s (MBS) IT services, in the coming weeks at perks.com and in TDA’s print publications; or call (512) 443-3675 and speak with a Perks staff member.

TDA Perks Program Sponsors the 2011 TEXAS Party If you’re going to TEXAS Meeting in May, stop by the Perks-sponsored TEXAS Party for some good fun, great food, dancing; and live music from Dr. Bud Luecke and his band, “Morning.” Don’t forget to pick up your free guitar pick; and stick around to see if you’re the lucky winner of a special door prize from Perks: a new Dell Inspiron laptop!

MBS to Sponsor TDA Perks Laptop Giveaway at TEXAS Meeting

TDA Presents Award to Texas Senator Carlos Uresti

At the conclusion of each legislative session, the TDA Board of Directors approves “Excellence in Patient Advocacy Awards” A to be given to select lawmakers who were instrumental in assisting the TDA with its legislative agenda.

On February 22, 2011, members of the TDA’s Council on Legislative and Regulatory Affairs (CLRA) presented Texas Sen. Carlos Uresti (D-San Antonio) with the award for his dedication to improving the oral health of children in Texas in 81st Texas Legislature (2009).

After accepting the award, Sen. Uresti spoke with CLRA about the numerous issues facing the Texas Legislature. Sen. Uresti also expressed appreciation for the TDA’s continued support of his legislation to require dental support for a child subject to a child support order – SB 120.

Perks Partner News

TDA president Dr. Ronald L. Rhea presents the TDA’s Excellence in Patient Advocacy Award to Texas Senator Carlos Uresti (D-San Antonio) last month for his dedication to improving the oral health of the state’s children.

Managed Backup Solutions and Data Security (MBS), a TDA Perks Program partner, is generously sponsoring three Dell laptops for Perks’ annual promotional giveaway at TEXAS Meeting. MBS provides secure, automated, reliable and costeffective electronic data backup and file recovery, as well as IT services. Look for more information regarding MBS, the Perks giveaway, and other Perks events at TEXAS Meeting at perks.com and in the April issues of TDA’s print publications.

Questions? Call TDA Perks Program at: (512) 443-3675.

Happy, Healthy Smiles … That’s Our Mission!

Smiles on Wheels, McCamey February was an amazing month for the TDA Smiles Foundation (TDASF). On February 12, TDASF held a Smiles on Wheels in McCamey. Not only was this the 15th Smiles on Wheels, the event broke the TDASF record of most patients seen at a Smiles on Wheels event in 1 day! TDASF volunteers worked tirelessly from 5:00 AM to 5:00 PM pulling, cleaning, and restoring teeth. At the end of the day, 192 people received $92,424 worth of much-needed dental care. Plus, 11 new volunteer dentists came out to treat these citizens.

New volunteer dentists are what keep these events going! If you have not come to an event, please consider coming to one this year! We bring the equipment, the town provides the patients. All we need is you and your amazing skills.

Here is a list of upcoming events; please consider coming to one or all of them: Texas Mission of Mercy (TMOM), Dallas April 15-16, 2011

TDA member Dr. James C. Lemon of Slaton and nonmember Dr. David DeWitt of Midland volunteer at Smiles on Wheels in McCamey last month.

Dr. James B. Lovering of Lubbock (right) is pictured with an allied team member at the Smiles on Wheels in McCamey in February.

Dr. Terry L. Schul of Crane (second from left) is pictured with pre-dental students at last month’s Smiles on Wheels in McCamey.

Dr. Larry W. Spradley of Keller provides charitable care at the Smiles on Wheels in McCamey in February.

Smiles on Wheels, Mineral Wells June 11, 2011 ½ TMOM, Texarkana August 5-6, 2011 Smiles on Wheels, Bridge City September 24, 2011 TMOM, Amarillo October 28-29, 2011 To register to volunteer, go to tdasf.org.

Register Now for the Healthy Smiles Golf Tournament Register to play at next month’s Healthy Smiles Golf Tournament.

This is an amazing tournament held at the beautiful Pecan Valley Golf Course in San Antonio during the TEXAS Meeting in San Antonio.

The event starts at 7:30 AM and includes breakfast and lunch, and prizes. To register to play, or to learn about sponsorship opportunities, visit tdasf.org and click on the Healthy Smiles Golf Tournament logo.

Drs. Hedley Rakusin of Dallas, William H. Gerlach of Plano, Larry D. Herwig of Dallas, and Michael L. Stuart of Sunnyvale participate in the TDASF Healthy Smiles Golf Classic during the 2010 TEXAS Meeting in San Antonio.

March 2011 / TDA Today / 2

Friday, May 6, 2011 Pecan Valley Golf Club 4700 Pecan Valley Drive San Antonio, TX 78223 6:30 AM: Registration and access to driving range and putting green 7:30 AM: Shotgun start Around 12:00 PM: Awards luncheon

A&M Leads TDASF Bragging Rights Campaign This is it! It is the last month you can donate to the TDASF Bragging Rights Campaign. With the Healthy Smiles Golf Tournament right around the corner, we need to know what color the golf shirts will be! So far it looks like the TDASF booth at the annual session and the Healthy Smiles Golf Tournament will be covered in maroon. It seems that A&M University has some of the strongest supporters in our dental community! If you want to prove otherwise, donate today!

One hundred percent of your donation goes directly to TDASF’s operating budget, which allows TDASF to continue to provide four amazing programs that help both the dental community and ensure Texas citizens have access to oral health education and services — Texas Mission of Mercy, Smiles on Wheels, Donated Dental Services, and educational opportunities for the dental community like the Beverly Bane Lectureship.

Don’t forget to show your school spirit and donate to this worthy cause today at tdasf.org or e-mail TDASF missions manager Melinda Biggs at melinda@tda.org.

MK’s Board Notes Mary Kay Linn, TDA Executive Director Below is a summary of the actions of the TDA Board of Directors during an Executive Committee meeting on September 24, 2010, a regular Board meeting November 12-13, 2010, and a conference call on December 28, 2010. TDA president Dr. Ronald L. Rhea presided.

Non-Policy and Board Policy Resolutions (17) APPOINTMENTS (1) 82-2011-B (NP): Created a task force to explore training of TDA officers and volunteers.

BUDGET (5) 93-2011-B: Approved additional costs related to the purchase of furniture for the TDA Extension building.

68-2011-B (NP): Approved funding to purchase furniture, upgrade existing phones and data cabling as well as media equipment for the TDA extension.

69-2011-B (NP): Approved items over budget, totaling $241,701.

85-2011-B: Approved for the year 2011 the Texas Dental Association will cover the premium costs of the individual policies recommended by the Frost Insurance group provided the component societies elect to have Directors and Officers insurance.

91-2011-B (__): Approved the purchase of a laptop MAC computer for the Texas Dental Association to be used by the editor.

CORRESPONDENCE (3) 60-2011-EC-B (NP): Approved TDA president Dr. Ronald L. Rhea and TDA legal counsel Mr. William H. Bingham prepare a letter to the members of the Capital Area Dental Society in response to their letter dated August 18, 2010, requesting additional information of the settlement of the National Labor Relations Board case.

64-2011-B (NP): Approved the TDA write a letter supporting Dr. Jacqueline M. Plemons for appointment by Governor Rick Perry to the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners.

92-2011-B (__): Approved the TDA president send a letter to each component society president and president-elect in response to past transmitted letters concerning the TDA and the National Labor Relations Board matter involving former TDA employees.

MISCELLANEOUS (7) 59-2011-EC-B (NP): Approved the TDA to enter a contract with Dr. David Sibley to provide lobby services as the lead lobbyist for the Association beginning September 24, 2010 and ending December 31, 2011.

80-2011-B (NP): Amended the annual strategic planning process of the Association and rescinded Resolution 74-2006-H. 81-2011-B (NP): Retained the services of the public relations firm, Hahn, Texas, for a day-long message development workshop to identify target audiences and messages for social media campaigns.

The firm presented a report on the workshop at the February 2011 Board meeting.

83-2011-B (NP): With approval of TDA legal counsel and outside accounting, all accounts in the Operations Divisions of the TDA be consolidated into the least number of accounts possible, maintaining separate restricted accounts for the employee’s dental prepayment account, dues prepayment account, legislative account, and the building account such that all accounts including future accounts (i. e. IRS, ERISA or other accounts that are regulated by governmental requirement) will be maintained by the Treasurer T to maximize returns with the least amount of risks.

OUT-OF-STATE TRAVEL (1) 70-2011-B (NP): Approved out-of-state travel for members and staff to attend the 25th Annual American Dental Association Lobbyist Conference on December 2-4, 2010 in Tucson, T Arizona.

Board Policy Resolutions (11) MISCELLANEOUS (11) 58-2011-EC-B (P): Waived quarter year dues from $113.75 to $0 for former and non-members who join from October 1-December 31, 2010.

65-2011-B (P): Approved TDA to be a sponsoring organization of the Texas T Public Health Coalition.

71-2011-B (P): Approved the TDA to compensate a component society when a TDA annual meeting is held in its area.

72-2011-B (P): Authorized the Council on Annual Session to establish fees, with approval of the Board of Directors, for all TEXAS Meeting sessions including those to support accurate assignment of meeting rooms/classroom space and the quality of the program. Rescinded Resolutions 942010-BS-H and 48-2002-H. 75-2011-B (P): Approved annual presentation of a service recognition award at the TDA annual session to the president of the Alliance of the Texas T Dental Association.

77-2011-B (P): Approved the TDA support the continuation of the American Dental Association Direct R Reimbursement publicity campaign. Rescinded Resolution 191-1999-H. 78-2011-BS (P): Rescinded Resolutions 11-1994-H, 812001-H, 83-2000-H, 86-1999-H, and 124-1991-H. 79-2011-B (P) (2/3 Vote Required): Amended the TDA Peer Review Manual, Section III B. Matters that are Outside of the Scope of Peer Review by adding a new subsection 1 and renumbering existing subsections.

R Rescinded Resolution 125-2010-H. 86-2011-BS1 (P) (2/3 Vote Required): Amended CHAPTER XVI. AMENDMENTS of the Bylaws and designated the amended paragraph as a new SECTION 10. AMENDMENT and deleted the EXPLANATORY NOTE. 86-2011-BS2 (P) (2/3 Vote Required): Defeated the addition of a new SECTION 20. AMENDMENT AFFECTING A DUES CHANGE OF ACTIVE MEMBERS. to be added to CHAPTER XVI. 90-2011-B (P): Approved that all TDA Councils and Committees submit a yearly written report to the TDA Board and House of Delegates, and if a council or committee has not met or conducted business, the annual report should so state.

Proposed Changes to Texas Medicaid Dental Program Since the February update, the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) released the formal Request for Proposals (RFP) on February 22, 2011, to obtain services of at least two dental managed health organizations (DMHO) to administer the State’s newly proposed Medicaid capitated dental managed care program in March 2012.

The TDA met privately with HHSC officials on February 25, 2011, to discuss the RFP and address items of continued concern for the Association. Additionally, the TDA submitted a follow-up memo to HHSC by the March 11th deadline detailing those concerns that must be addressed if the State intends to change the delivery model for dental services.

As part of the RFP process, HHSC hosted a vendor conference on March 1, 2011. The conference included a review of the RFP and an explanation of HHSC’s procurement process. Amerigroup, Delta Dental, DentaQuest, Liberty Dental, MCNA, Metlife, and United Concordia were among the participants attending the conference.

On the legislative front, Dr. Richard Black, chair of the TDA’s TDA Council on Legislative & Regulatory Affairs, and Dr. Matthew B. R Roberts, TDA past president, testified before the legislature regarding Senate Bill 1 and House Bill 1 (General Appropriations Act), Article II agencies (Health and Human Services), and the proposed dental managed care delivery model.

Look for your next update in the April 2011 TDA Today.

For questions or comments, contact TDA’s TDA policy manager Ms. Diane Rhodes at (512) 443-3675 or diane@tda.org.

141st Annual Session of the Texas Dental Association May 5 – 8, 2011 • San Antonio, Texas

Ron’s Ruminations Ronald L. Rhea, DDS, TDA President 2010-11 On November 18, 1995, at the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts in New York, violinist Itzhak Perlman, stricken with polio as a child, slowly and painfully walked with his two crutches across the stage until he reached his chair. After undoing the clasps on his leg braces, he grasped his violin, tucked it comfortably under his chin, nodded to the conductor, and began to play. The audience settled back to enjoy Perlman’s remarkable genius—until they heard one of his strings snap abruptly.

Everyone expected the virtuoso to replace the broken string on his famous Stradivarius or, perhaps, continue with an entirely different instrument. But instead, Perlman waited a minute, closed his eyes, and then signaled the conductor to start again. When the orchestra began, Perlman joined them, simultaneously recomposing the music in his mind to adjust for the missing string. That night, Itzhak Perlman accomplished an impossible feat: he played a symphonic work with just three strings on his violin.

When it was over, the astonished audience jumped to its feet and cheered wildly. Perlman smiled and raised his bow to quiet the crowd.

“You know,” he said thoughtfully, “sometimes it is the artist’s task to find out how much music you can still make with what you have left.”

This story is often told as an inspiration to those of us who are less than perfect and live in this less than perfect world. Some have discounted the tale as a mere urban legend. Nevertheless, Perlman displays the attitude we all should have when faced with less than ideal circumstances.

As dentists working today in less than perfect economic conditions, we should all remember what a wonderful profession we have. Regardless of the economy people always need the care we have to offer. While they may not accept the huge restorative treatment plan we know would be ideal for them, they will forever appreciate us if we can care for their immediate needs until times improve.

As the TDA works to bring to you improved informed consent forms, I was reminded by TDA president-elect Dr. J. Preston Coleman of a lesson learned years ago at the L.D. Pankey Institute in Miami, Florida.

“Never treat a stranger.” With more open time on Texas dentists’ appointment books, it is a wonderful time to enjoy getting to know your patients better. It is also a wonderful time to advance your skills with continuing education.

Those spare moments, spent in positive pursuits, instead of bemoaning your down time, will pay off many times over in increased case acceptance and productivity in the coming upturn. It is also a great time to become involved more in organized dentistry and in the political process of Texas state government. These are the things that have made Texas truly the best place in our nation in which to practice dentistry. Let us build upon our strengths in our offices and in our state.

Evidence-Based Practice Tip of the Month Stephen R. Matteson, DDS, TDA Editor Help for Smokers Here is a Cochrane Review: “Can smokers be helped to reduce harm by smoking fewer cigarettes or using different tobacco products.” Nicotine replacement roughly doubled the odds of reducing the number of cigarettes per day by 50 percent or more, but levels of CO2 and cotinine did not reduce by the same proportion. Check out the details. Google: CD005231.

May is Almost Here … Make Plans Now for the 2011 TEXAS Meeting The TDA Council on Annual Session encourages TDA members to make arrangements now to attend the 2011 TEXAS Meeting, the 141st Annual Session of the Texas Dental Association, scheduled May 5-8, 2011, at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio.

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REGISTER TODAY. Avoid additional onsite fees and receive your materials in advance by registering before April 5, 2011. Register online at texasmeeting.com.

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HOTEL RESERVATIONS. Don’t delay booking your hotel room, the April 5, 2011, deadline is quickly approaching. Take advantage of these special hotel rates. Make hotel reservations online at texasmeeting.com.

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CE VERIFICATION. The TEXAS Meeting will meet all of your continuing education needs. Attendees can earn up to 18 hours of continuing education within 3 days. Verification certificates are available onsite or electronically following the meeting.

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ONE-STOP SHOPPING. The 2011 exhibit hall promises to be the biggest and best ever. Take advantage of special pricing on the latest supplies and services to enhance your practice.

We look forward to seeing you in San Antonio! For additional information, please visit texasmeeting.com or call the TDA Annual Session staff at (512) 443-3675.

March 2011 / TDA Today / 3

TSBDE Rule Update

This recurring section is designed to help TDA members keep up with important Texas State Board of Dental Examiners (TSBDE) rules, other regulations, and state law affecting their practices.

Question: Can a dentist dismiss a patient from his/her dental practice without abandoning the patient?

Answer: Yes. A dentist may dismiss a patient (e.g. terminate the dentist-patient relationship) for a reasonable cause if the requirements of Texas State Board of Dental Examiners (TSBDE) Rule 108.5 regarding “Patient Abandonment” are followed. The dentist must take steps to protect the dental health of the patient by completing any dental procedures that may be in progress prior to terminating the dentist-patient relationship. The dentist must also remain available for emergency services for at least thirty (30) days after notice of termination is served upon the patient. Please review the TSBDE rule thoroughly prior to attempting to dismiss a patient.

For your convenience, the text of Rule 108.5 is provided below.

TSBDE Rule 108.5 Patient Abandonment (a) A dentist, without reasonable cause, shall not abandon a dental patient. Once a dentist has undertaken a course of treatment, the dentist, absent reasonable cause, shall not discontinue that treatment without giving the patient adequate notice and the opportunity to obtain the services of another dentist. A dentist shall exercise the level of care necessary to prevent jeopardizing the patient’s oral health during this process. (b) Under this section, a dentist shall give a minimum of 30 days written notice of his/her intent to discontinue undertaken treatment. Notice shall be either hand-delivered to the patient or sent via certified mail, return receipt requested to the patient’s last known address, with the dentist retaining a copy of the notice letter in the patient’s file along with proof of service. Adequate notice shall include the following: (1) a short description of the patient’s current status, including the patient’s current diagnosis and a summary of the patient’s current treatment plan; (2) a short description of the patient’s present and future needs; (3) an explanation regarding the consequences of non-treatment; (4) a recommendation that the patient continue care with another dentist; and (5) a clear statement emphasizing that the dentist is available to provide any emergency treatment necessary to prevent patient harm during the 30-day period. (c) A dentist shall remain reasonably available to render any emergency treatment necessary under (b)(5) of this section for up to 30 days from the date of such notice.

Source Note: The provisions of this §108.5 adopted to be effective February 20, 2001, 26 TexReg 1494; amended to be effective April 14, 2002, 27 TexReg 2826.

Please contact TDA policy manager Ms. Diane Rhodes for more information, (512) 443-3675, diane@tda.org.

EDITORIAL STAFF Dr. Stephen R. Matteson, D.D.S., Editor Nicole Scott, Managing Editor Barbara S. Donovan, Art Director Paul H. Schlesinger, Consultant BOARD OF DIRECTORS Ronald L. Rhea, D.D.S., President J. Preston Coleman, D.D.S., President-elect Matthew B. Roberts, Immediate Past President Vice Presidents R. Lee Clitheroe, D.D.S., Southeast John W. Baucum III, D.D.S., Southwest Kathleen M. Nichols, D.D.S., Northwest Donna G. Miller, D.D.S., Northeast Senior Directors Karen E. Frazer, D.D.S., Southeast Lisa B. Masters, D.D.S., Southwest Robert E. Wiggins, Jr., D.D.S., Northwest Larry D. Herwig, D.D.S., Northeast Directors Rita M. Cammarata, D.D.S., Southeast T. Beth Vance, D.D.S., Southwest Michael J. Goulding, D.D.S., Northwest Arthur C. Morchat, D.D.S., Northeast Ron Collins, D.D.S., Secretary-Treasurer Glen D. Hall, D.D.S., Speaker of the House Michael L. Stuart, D.D.S., Parliamentarian Stephen R. Matteson, D.D.S., Editor Mary Kay Linn, Executive Director William H. Bingham, Legal Counsel

In the News Higginbottom named BCD Distinguished Alumnus

Dr. Frank L. Higginbottom of Dallas was bestowed Baylor College of Dentistry’s (BCD) Distinguished Alumnus Award on January 14, 2011 during the BCD Alumni Association’s homecoming reception in Dallas.

A 1971 BCD graduate, Higginbottom maintains a private practice in esthetic, restorative, and implant dentistry in Dallas. At BCD, he is an associate clinical professor in restorative sciences, graduate prosthodontics and oral and maxillofacial surgery. He also is a clinical associate professor of periodontics at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio Dental School.

Higginbottom lectures nationally and internationally on the subjects of dental implants, restorative dentistry, provisional restorations, and treatment planning. He also has authored numerous articles and contributed to textbooks on these subjects and is active in basic research in the field of dental implant systems.

A member of numerous professional dental organizations, Higginbottom is a past director and vice president of the TDA and a fellow of the Academy of Osseointegration, the American College of Dentists, and the International College of Dentists.

He has been awarded honorary membership in the American College of Prosthodontics.

TDA Today (USPS 022-007) is published monthly except for December by the Texas Dental Association, 1946 S. IH-35, Ste 400, Austin, Texas 78704-3698, (512) 443-3675. Periodicals Postage Paid at Austin, Texas and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to TDA TODAY, 1946 S. IH-35, Ste 400, Austin, TX 78704-3698.

Annual subscriptions: Texas Dental Association (TDA) members, $5. In-state American Dental Association (ADA) affiliated, $15 + tax. Out-of-state ADA affiliated, $15. In-state non-ADA affiliated, $30 + tax. Out-of-state non-ADA affiliated, $30.

Single issue price: TDA members $1. In-state ADA affiliated, $3 + tax. Out-of-state ADA affiliated, $3. In-state non-ADA affiliated, $6 + tax. Out-of-state non-ADA affiliated, $6.

Contributions: Manuscripts and news items of interest to the membership of the Association are solicited. Manuscripts should be typewritten, double spaced, and the original copy should be submitted. Please refer to Instructions for Contributors in the annual September Directory of the Texas Dental Journal for more information. The Information for Contributors is available at tda.org. All statements of opinion and of supposed facts are published on authority of the writer under whose name they appear and are not to be regarded as the views of the Texas Dental Association, unless such statements have been adopted by the Association. Articles are accepted with the understanding that they have not been published previously. Authors must disclose any financial or other interests they may have in products Member Publication or services described in their articles.

Advertisements: Publication of advertisements in this publication does not constitute a guarantee or endorsement by the Association of the quality of value of such product or of the claims made of it by its manufacturer.

Limited-Time Offer MARCH 2011

VOLUME 12, ISSUE 3 AVAILABLE ONLINE AT TDA.ORG

on 28-Gallon Medical Waste Recovery System Take advantage of a great deal while you can! Through May 7th, Sharps Compliance is offering its 28-Gallon TakeAway™ Recovery System to TDA members for $175 (including shipping and handling)! It’s the perfect solution for the management of sharps and other used healthcare materials.

Eliminate costly pick-up services without changing your sharps-container style. To order, call the number below. Mention the “TDA Today” ad.

(800) 772-5657 x 162

Visit SHARPS in the Perks Aisle at TEXAS Meeting! Booth 540 This Perks program is environmentally responsible. Find out how at: tdaperks.com

$175.00 $195.09

Learn about other great Perks programs at: tdaperks.com.

Or call the Perks staff at: (512) 443-3675.