Issue 8 WSDA News August 2017

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The voice of the Washington State Dental Association

news

DR. NHI PHAM

2017 CITIZEN OF THE YEAR Also in this issue: SPECIAL DELTA MEETING INFORMATION

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HOUSE OF DELEGATES CANDIDATES

P R E M I E R B U I L D E R S D E N TA L FAC I L I T I E S

Throughout the construction, they were very organized and well-coordinated with vendors and designers.

The project was completed with high quality, in a timely manner, and right on budget. I really appreciate the level of professionalism, knowledge and honesty. The quality of completed work is outstanding. ~Ramtin Amini DMD, DDS, MD & Patrick Wang DMD, DDS, MD

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C O N S TA N T I N E B U I L D E R S . C O M

a day in the life Special Thanks

The Task Force on Recognition would like to thank every-

one who took the time to nominate loved ones, colleagues, and good friends for the 2017 Citizen of the Year. We had a wealth of fantastic nominees to choose from.

“We’re excited about this year’s winner,” said Dr. Chris Delecki, task force chair. “Dr. Pham’s unselfish volunteerism both locally and abroad makes her an outstanding selection as WDSA’s 2017 ‘Citizen of the Year’! Clearly Dr. Pham practices dentistry from her heart.”

2017 Task Force on Recognition: Dr. Chris Delecki, Chair Dr. Theodore M. Baer Ms. Jennifer Freimund Dr. Michael Karr Dr. Ralph G. Petersen

Dr. Nhi Pham, 2017 Citizen of the Year

WSDA news Cover story by Rob Bahnsen Cover story images by Craig Mitchelldyer

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editorial

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guest editorial

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delta meeting information

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issue 8 · august 2017 endorsed company news classifieds

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cover story: citizen of the year

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clinical corner

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strategic plan overview

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first person: dr. john evans

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member news

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letter to the editor

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hod news

Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/WashingtonStateDentalAssociation WSDA News Editor Dr. Mar y Jennings

Dr. Ashley L. Ulmer Dr. Amy M. Winston

Continuing Education and Events Coordinator Sarah Quigley

Editorial Advisor y Board Dr. Brittany Dean Dr. John Evans Dr. Julie Kellogg Dr. Stephen Lee Dr. Joseph Vaughn

WSDA Staff:

Membership Ser vices Coordinator Rachel Gunderson

Washington State Dental Association Dr. Bernard J. Larson, President Dr. Cynthia R. Pauley, President-elect Dr. Nathan G. Russell, Secretary-Treasurer Dr. Bryan C. Edgar, Immediate Past President Board of Directors Dr. Theodore M. Baer Dr. Marissa N. Bender Dr. Dennis L. Bradshaw Dr. Christopher Delecki Dr. Linda J. Edgar Dr. Todd R. Irwin Dr. Christine L. Kirchner Dr. Eric J. Kvinsland Dr. Randall H. Ogata Dr. James W. Reid

Executive Director Bracken Killpack Assistant Executive Director Kainoa Trot ter Controller Peter Aaron Director of Government Affairs Mellani McAleenan Director of Operations Brenda Berlin

Membership and Communications Coordinator Emma Brown Bookkeeper Joline Hartman Administration and Financial Coordinator Tom Harshbarger Association Of fice: (206) 448 -1914 Fax: (206) 443 -9266 Toll Free Number: (800) 448 - 3368 E- mail/web: info@ wsda.org/wsda.org

Ar t Director/Managing Editor Robert Bahnsen Director of Continuing Education and Events Emily Rademacher, CMP Government Affairs Associate Emily Lovell

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In the event of a natural disaster that takes down the WSDA web site and email accounts, the WSDA has established a separate email address. Should an emergency occur, members can contact washstatedental@gmail.com.

The WSDA N ews is pub lishe d 8 time s ye arl y by t he Washington State Dental Association. Copyright © 2017 by the Washington State Dental Association, all rights reser ved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without permission of the editor. Statements of fact or opinion are the responsibility of the authors alone and do not express the opinions of the WSDA, unless the Association has adopted such statements or opinions.

Subscription price is $65 plus sales tax per year for 8 issues of the News. Foreign rate is $97.92 per year. Advertising is published as a service to readers; the editor reserves the right to accept, reject, discontinue or edit any advertising offered for publication. Publication of advertising materials is not an endorsement, qualification, approval or guarantee of either the advertiser or product. Communications intended for publication, business matters and advertising should be sent to the WSDA Office, 126 NW Canal Street, Seattle, Wash.

98107. ISSN 1064-0835

Member Publication American Association of Dental Editors.

Winner: 2016: Platinum Pencil Award, 2015: Platinum Pencil Award Honorable Mention, 2014: ADA Golden Apple Award for Outstanding Achievement in the Promotion of Diversit y and Inclusion, 2013: Journalism Award, Platinum Pencil, 2012: Journalism Award, Best Newsletter, Division 1, 2012: Platinum Pencil Award Honorable Mention (2), 2008: Best Newsletter, Division 1, 2007 Platinum Pen Award, 2006 Honorable Mention, 2005 Platinum Pencil Award, 2005 Publication Award; International College of Dentists

table of contents issue 8, august 2017

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editorial dr. mar y jennings

Biting into Teeth

Dr. Mary Jennings Editor, WSDA News

“Many of Otto’s observations are troubling.

She writes about the ‘historic rebuff’ that caused ‘dentistry’s evolution in isolation from the rest of the nation’s health care system.’ This isolation was rooted dentistry’s exclusion from the medical umbrella in the early 1800s, which Otto claims snowballed and created a multitude of problems including a lack of access to care for the poor.”

Dr. Mary Jennings, WSDA News editor, welcomes comments and letters from readers. Contact her at her email address: mjenningsdds@gmail.com.

I just finished reading Mary Otto’s book titled Teeth: The Story of Beauty, Inequality, and the Struggle for Oral Health in America.

Otto is a former Washington Post journalist whose impressive credentials include being a recipient of the ADEA Gies Foundation’s William J. Gies Award for Vision, Innovation and Achievement in 2010 and the topic leader on oral health for the Association of Health Care Journalists. She started her book research during her fellowship from the Knight Science Journalism Program at MIT. As you can imagine, Otto is a damned good writer.

Her detail and research run deep and rich. It took her four years to write her book.

Otto tells the heartbreaking story of 12-year-old Deamonte Driver, who died from an untreated tooth infection in 2007 in Baltimore, and its impact on his family, members of the local dental community, National Dental Society, the ADA, and the rest of our community. She describes Miss USA’s foray into cosmetic dentistry (she received cosmetic dentistry as part of her state title package and realized that she had to be perfect in order to take the crown), and the tale of a South Carolina hygienist who mortgaged her house so that she could help change laws allowing hygienists to care for children in schools. She brings famous names in dentistry to life. She provides data and footnotes enough to fuel my editorials for the foreseeable future. But most of all, she writes about equity and the need for everyone to have good oral health, and I respect her for that.

However, I think many of Otto’s observations are troubling. She writes about the “historic rebuff” that caused “dentistry’s evolution in isolation from the rest of the nation’s health care system.” This isolation was rooted in dentistry’s exclusion from the medical community in the early 1800s, which Otto claims snowballed and created a multitude of problems, including a lack of access to care for the poor.

Otto suggests that, absent medical oversight, dentistry became more technique-based rather than health-based, that we separated the mouth from the body. Evidently getting caught up in techniques prevented us from providing the comprehensive/preventative care that physicians use to actually heal people. Imagine my surprise.

Otto maintains, in brief, that if we had reconciled with the medical model, we would have worked through the issues like midlevel providers, and would accept Medicaid patients just like the MDs have. There would be more emphasis on health, and less emphasis on selling cosmetic dentistry.

While this is a beautifully drawn conclusion, this is not what I see in the real world of dentistry in 2017. In short, I think we have long healed from the rebuff. I do not hear a clarion call for our return. Nor is there concern from the medical community regarding our education or the quality of our care. Optometrists, podiatrists, and osteopathic physicians are not taught with MDs under the same medical roof. Where do they fit into the rebuff theory? Why are they not a concern?

The mouth was firmly attached to the body when I went to dental school in 1986. I was taught that a monkey with a stick could drill a hole and fill it, but a doctor treats the whole human, mind, and body. I honor that statement every day I practice.

Otto maintains that for some reason, we lost our collective focus on health in the 1980s with the birth of veneers and cosmetic dentistry. She fails to mention that plastic surgery has a parallel history, and yet the medical community is not accused of losing its focus.

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons reports that Americans spent a record $16 billion on cosmetic surgeries and procedures in 2016.

I remember the excitement over cosmetic dentistry from both patients and dentists, but I never thought it redefined us. We are so much more than that. I practice community health dentistry; Dr. Tim Hess has added Botox to his list of comprehensive services; and Dr. Barbara Sheller helps close cleft palates on 2-day-old infants. Do not be deceived.

Dentistry is all-encompassing, and always moving forward. Prevention and bread-andbutter dentistry never left the building. Dentistry just quietly got better.

But let’s talk about the poor. Otto is quite right that we are in a hell of a fix. President Trump’s failed budget proposal cut deeply into all types of poverty programs. So far, I continued on page 52

The views expressed in all WSDA publications are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily reflect the official positions or policies of the WSDA.

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A lot has changed in our Association over the last couple of years. Notably, a shift in thinking has occurred on the WSDA Board. The Board has been concerned that many of its discussions have focused on reacting to issues and concerns presented to it, instead of anticipating opportunities to proactively affect change for our membership. While WSDA has a long history of thinking strategically, I believe it has operated without a true Strategic Plan for several years. Although the “Strategies, Goals, and Objectives” document was reviewed by the Board every other year, there was little action or meaning derived from it. We heard thoughts and concerns from WSDA members. We felt challenged to look for a way to draw on the unique interests and experiences of each Board and WSDA member to think strategically, brainstorm what is possible for our organization, and forecast our priorities for the future.

For the past year and a half, the WSDA Board of Directors and staff have been working on a Strategic Plan for 2017-2020. An overview of the new plan can be found on pages 18 to 21 of this issue of WSDA News. The complete plan can be found online at www. wsdasource.org.

One of the first steps in the development of our Strategic Plan was to rewrite the Association’s mission and vision statements. Recognizing the mission statement describes what the Association does today, we wrote: WSDA empowers its members to advocate for and provide optimal oral health care. WSDA knows that we cannot exist without our members; our mission is now clearly driven by helping you be a successful dentist. Our vision describes WSDA’s future impact, and, the effect of executing our mission, which states: All Washington dentists are fully supported to provide optimal oral health care.

Our revised mission and vision statements are designed to be guideposts for ongoing Strategic Planning cycles.

During our planning process, the Board and staff identified four “Strategic Priorities” for the 2017-2020 Strategic Plan. Strategic Priorities are areas of focus derived from our mission statement. The four Strategic Priorities are as follows: Advocacy & External Communication – Advance solutions that promote the health and safety of all people in Washington, and showcase the good works of dentists and organized dentistry in Washington.

Leadership & Governance – Expand leadership opportunities for members and increase the approachability of our governance activities, volunteer leaders, and staff. Relationships – Build trusting and collaborative relationships internally with our members, component societies, peer state dental Associations, and the American Dental Association, and externally with nonmembers and other key stakeholders. Education & Financial Stability – Continually improve the quality of patient care through education, and ensure adequate funding for all Association activities and services through sustainable investments and nondues revenue.

There is a common business adage that states that “you can only manage what you can measure.” We have taken this mantra to heart by creating several “Strategic Goals” for each of our Strategic Priorities. Each strategic goal is comprised of specific, measurable actions that WSDA will take through 2020. Some goals use the “SMART” framework (specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, time-bound), while others use a continuous improvement methodology (plan, do, check, act, repeat). Regardless of the framework, the 19 Strategic Goals that we have created will drive much of the work of the Board and the Association’s other committees and task forces for several years. A complete list of the Strategic Priorities can be found on pages 20 and 21.

After completing all of this planning, the Board is committed to making this Strategic Plan a catalyst for action, and not a stack of paper that collects dust on a shelf. The Board has completely reorganized its regular business meetings to work on our Strategic Plan every meeting. To achieve this, each director expressed interest in one of four areas and was assigned to one of the four board committees. Each committee is assigned to oversee the work of one of our Strategic Priorities. These work groups engage in robust discussions with the staff about all varied Strategic Goals to which we are assigned. We

Dr. Ashley Ulmer WSDA Board of Directors

“We felt challenged to look for a way to draw on the unique interests and experiences of each Board and WSDA member to think strategically, brainstorm what is possible for our organization, and forecast our priorities for the future.”

continued on page 52

The views expressed in all WSDA publications are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily reflect the official positions or policies of the WSDA.

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guest editorial dr. ashley ulmer

Putting Patients and Dentists First in the New WSDA Strategic Plan

SPECIAL MEETINGS

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DON’T BE MYTH-INFORMED

BY DELTA DENTAL Dear WDS Member Dentists: By now, you should have received notice of two special meetings of WDS/Delta member dentists to consider a series of bylaw amendments that have been proposed by your fellow members. Those meetings will be held at the Lynnwood Convention Center on Wednesday, September 6th, beginning at 2:00 pm.

2. We are supportive of Delta’s Arcora Foundation in promoting oral health. Delta had a robust foundation back in 2011 when it claimed that 94% of premiums went to patient care. What, exactly, has changed? Today, Delta has a $230 million investment portfolio. Why isn’t Delta giving even more to its Foundation?

These meetings are critical to the future of your patients and your practice, and we urge you to make every effort to attend. If you cannot attend, it is vital that you assign your proxy vote to another member dentist attending the event. Mailing your proxy vote into Delta Dental gives your voting rights to the Delta Board of Directors. Go to www.wsda.org/delta for more information.

The proposed amendments are a series of common-sense improvements developed to enhance the doctor-patient relationship by shifting Delta’s focus back to patients and the providers who care for them. They also will give Delta member dentists more visibility into the company’s operations.

3. The amendments we are proposing are about protecting the doctor-patient relationship, returning Delta to a more patient-focused operation, and bringing more transparency to its members. The fact that Delta is using an antitrust smoke screen simply illustrates why these changes are so vital to the future of dental care in our state.

You can learn all the details about the proposed amendments by visiting www.wsda.org/delta.

We thought it was important to clear up some misinformation that is being spread about the proposed changes.

It is important that you are not “myth-informed” by Delta Dental.

1. In 2011, Delta’s Board of Directors wrote in a letter to all Delta members that “about 94 cents of every premium dollar received by WDS is paid directly to dental offices.”

Today, Delta claims the 94% loss ratio proposed in the bylaw amendments would lead to ruin. What, exactly, has changed? Since 2010, the average premium paid per patient has risen and virtually all of that increase has become profit for Delta – helping it increase its Cash and Investments by 67% over the last seven years.

4. Delta opposes independent review and oversight. Why is that? Delta does not want to discuss how many claims are delayed or denied even after a preauthorization has been given, how many claims are adjusted to cover only a lower-cost procedure than what was actually performed, or how many claims decisions are made by someone without a clinical background or by a computer algorithm. Delta’s continuing lack of transparency is why data like this needs to be made visible to its member dentists.

Over the years, many of us have shared our concerns with Delta regarding their loss of focus on patients. These concerns have been largely ignored. So, we are taking this step, one that is provided for in the Delta bylaws, to drive change in the organization. This is our chance to make a real difference and create a better future for our patients and our practices. But we need your help. We hope we can count on you.

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WDS/Delta Special Meetings Date: Wednesday, September 6 Location: Lynnwood Convention Center, 3711 196th St. SW, Lynnwood, WA 98036 First Meeting Time: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Second Meeting Time: 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

WSDA Pre-Special Meetings Gathering Date: Wednesday, September 6 Time: 11:30 a.m.

Location: Lynnwood Convention Center, 3711 196th St. SW, Lynnwood, WA 98036 Room: 1DEF Complimentary Lunch Provided

Questions? Get the latest information at wsda.org/delta

WDS/DELTA SPECIAL MEETINGS:

Close your practice on

SEPTEMBER 6, 2017

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member news delta meeting information

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Q: How should I vote?

A: Nearly 650 WDS/Delta Member Dentists signed the special meeting petitions in support of the proposed WDS Bylaws amendments. The proposed amendments are seeking to improve patient care and increase transparency at WDS/Delta.

The WDS/Delta Member Dentists on the WSDA Board recommend that you SUPPORT the proposed Bylaws amendments.

Q: How do I fill out the WDS/Delta proxy form?

A: A sample completed WDS/Delta proxy form to SUPPORT the proposed Bylaws amendments can be viewed here www.wsda.org/delta.

Q: Does my designated proxy need my original proxy form, or may I fax or scan and email it?

A: The Bylaws do not state whether or not a faxed or scanned copy

of a proxy form will be counted for purposes of the Special Meetings. Out of an abundance of caution we recommend that you give or mail your proxy form to the person you have designated as your proxy on the WDS/Delta proxy form.

Q: Where do I mail the WDS/Delta proxy form once completed?

A: We recommend that you give or mail your proxy form to the

person you have designated as your proxy on the WDS/Delta proxy form. The Member Dentists who have volunteered to serve as proxy holders will take your proxy form to the Special Meetings on September 6th and delivery them to the election inspector. If you need someone to designate as your proxy, please email info@wsda.org.

We recommend that you DO NOT mail the proxy form back to WDS/Delta. Simply signing and returning your form to WDS/ Delta gives WDS Board members your voting rights.

Q: I didn’t get a proxy form, or I threw my proxy form away, how do I obtain one?

A: If you are a WDS/Delta Member Dentist and don’t have a proxy form, you can find a blank proxy form and instructions on how to complete it at www.wsda.org/delta.

Q: Can I list a backup proxy?

A: Yes. You may designate a WDS/Delta Member Dentist as your proxy holder AND designate an alternate WDS/Delta Member Dentist as a backup proxy holder on the WDS/Delta proxy form.

Please see a sample of how to complete the WDS/Delta proxy form in SUPPORT of the proposed Bylaws amendments here www.wsd.org/delta.

Q: I have already submitted the WDS/Delta proxy form to WDS/Delta. Can I revoke that proxy and/or change my vote?

A: Yes. A WDS/Delta Member Dentist can cancel a proxy by at-

tending the Special Meetings on September 6th and casting his or her vote in person.

If you decide to you need to revoke a previously submitted proxy form to WDS/Delta, you should complete a blank proxy form and be sure to SIGN and DATE the new proxy form so it is clear that the new proxy is meant to replace the proxy that you have previously submitted. Only the most recent, verifiable proxy form is likely to be counted for purposes of the Special Meeting.

You can find a blank proxy and instructions on how to complete it at www.wsda.org/delta.

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member news delta meeting information

Proxy FAQs

cover stor y 2017 citizen of the year: dr. nhi pham

Even if her volunteer service weren’t extraordinary, Dr. Nhi Pham, WSDA’s 2017 Citizen of the Year, has lived a remarkable life by any measure. Born in Vietnam, her family fled with 2-year old Nhi along with her aunts, uncles, cousins, and grandparents when Saigon fell in 1975. The route was treacherous, the family was separated and finally reunited in Guam, but not before her father thought he’d lost his wife, daughter, and relatives to the sea. The U.S. military brought countless families like hers to the country: first to refugee camps, and later to local municipalities through sponsorships spearheaded by churches and civic organizations.

Although she spoke barely any English when she started kindergarten, Pham went on to become salutatorian of her high school graduating class, receive a full academic scholarship to Seattle University, and attend the University of Washington School of Dentistry. Pham lives an auspicious life that belies her humble beginnings. By any account she’s far more than just a dentist and scholar. Pham has dedicated her life to the service of others, and through her good works has become something of a legend in Snohomish County.

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2017 CITIZEN OF THE YEAR

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cover stor y 2017 citizen of the year: dr. nhi pham

DR. NHI PHAM

cover stor y 2017 citizen of the year: dr. nhi pham

Photos: clockwise from top left: Pham often volunteers for the Medical Teams International dental van, Pham’s many mission trips have taken her around the world, the local paper heralds the family’s arrival, more work on the dental van.

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Giving back

Because of the welcome and help she and her family received when they arrived in the States, Pham has made giving back to the community part of her core identity. Pham was chosen as this year’s Citizen of the Year because of the depth of her commitment.

She currently volunteers with more than 10 organizations, including the Medical Teams International Dental Van, the UW Urgent Care Dental Clinic, Project Homeless Connect, Seattle Stand Down for Veterans Dental Clinic, Northwest Immigrants Rights Project, and Seattle-King County Dental Clinic. Additionally, she serves on the Medical Relief International (MRI) board, an organization that provides dental, medical, and humanitarian aid to people in need around the world. (If the good work of MRI sounds familiar, it’s because two former Citizens of the Year, Dr. Mike Karr and Dr. Loree Bolin, both have been involved with MRI.) This year, Pham will be the lead dentist on MRI’s first trip to Greece to help Syrian and Afghani refugees on the Island of Lesbos. Dr. Jeff Parrish, former WSDA president and Citizen of the Year, worked with Pham through MRI in Haiti and at a homeless outreach event in Everett. He says, “Nhi is a wife and mother first, a dentist second, and a humanitarian third. Yet she has a ton of room in her heart to be that humanitarian, and makes room in her life to do that.”

But running a successful practice at Mukilteo Dental Center, and performing scads of volunteer service isn’t all Pham does, Parrish notes. In addition, she’s raising three young daughters Kayla (14), Heaven (11), and Kovi (7) with her husband, Christian, teaches at the UW, Lake Washington Institute of Technology and Shoreline Community College, is a regular on the ski slopes and golf greens with her family, and performs in a hula group, Hokulani’s Hula, in her spare time. She explains with a smile, “I thrive when I’m busy.

I grew up with six younger siblings that I helped care for, so my life seems easy now in comparison. I’ve changed so many diapers in my lifetime and prepared years of lunches for my mom and all of the younger siblings. Once my youngest daughter was out of diapers, I was like, ‘What am I going to do with all this free time?’”

Getting to America

Her family’s perilous journey to the United States had to happen.

Pham’s father and grandfather had been allied with the American military, and their only choice was to flee or face persecution. Her uncle had been in a prison camp for more than 10 years, and those working under her grandfather were forced into labor camps, so they knew the realities first-hand. Her family planned their escape route traveling from their home in Ba Me Thuot to Nha Trang (where her grandfather, Huu Dac Bui, was Chief of Police) to Saigon. They joined the mass exodus of people on the South China Sea desperate to be pulled aboard one of the American military ships. Initially, they were all in one fishing boat, but the sea was littered with thousands of abandoned vessels, making passage impossible. With no anchors and little fuel, people tied boats together and jumped from one to the next, trying to find an American

ship that would allow them to board. Pham’s family was large, and in the confusion, became separated. “My mother saw many people fall into the sea while trying to make it onto the American ships,” Pham recalls. “Finally, a net was thrown down to my father, and he was strong enough to hold my sister and get pulled up. He told my mom to do the same, but she knew she wasn’t strong enough to hold onto the net while carrying me, and she felt it was too dangerous. Had she gone with my dad, she would have had to have left my grandmother behind with six other children under the age of 9.” For a week, the nine floated in the sea, unsure if they’d ever get rescued, running low on food and water, until Pham’s grandmother, Xanh Thi Nguyen, risked her life to jump onto an adjoining boat in search of anything to feed the hungry children.

Fortunately, they were rescued soon after by an American Navy ship and taken to Guam, where the entire family was miraculously reunited.

From there, the family was taken to Fort Chaffee, Ark., where they lived in a refugee camp. Pham says, “I remember being in Arkansas, and thinking that it was awesome being with all of my aunts and uncles. It felt more like a summer camp.” At that time, however, states became overburdened with the responsibility of caring for refugees and finding them homes. Washington’s thenGov. Dan Evans felt a need to help, and encouraged local churches across the state to sponsor refugees. Father Michael O’Brien from St. Michael Catholic Church in Snohomish took the Phams in, and overnight they had a home, a place of worship, and strangers willing to help them.

Growing up

The family’s arrival in Snohomish was heralded in the local paper, and although they spoke no English, church members and townspeople rallied to ease their transition to American life. “My father had a lot of opportunities to work in Seattle and other places, but he chose to stay and raise us in Snohomish,” says Pham.

“It’s a community that has continued to keep its small-town appeal. I faced challenges, of course, but I have always been more appreciative and thankful than bitter. People from the community came to help my mom learn how to cook American food, parishioners gave us clothes to wear, and even donated a Christmas tree to us.” St. Michael became important to the family, and Pham recalls that much of their life centered around the church.

Life in Vietnam, especially at the end, had been so chaotic that her parents sought to control whatever they could. That meant an emphasis on hard work, education, and faith. Money was especially tight for the Phams. She explains, “My parents taught us to be thankful for everything that we had, and in the early ’80s, the economy was awful. Everyone felt the pinch. From gas rationing to high unemployment and high interest rates, the nation as a whole struggled. It was really hard for my family. My dad went to Everett Community College and got a degree in electronics, but he really struggled to find work due to the economy and the language barrier. My parents raised us to be thankful, though. They taught us to save and to send money to help family back in Vietnam, even though it was tough for our family of ten to survive in the U.S.” Still, assimilation was not without its challenges, especially as Pham grew older. Snohomish was a small community with very little diversity thirty years ago when Pham attended high school.

“I struggled with my identity and my role within the community for a while,” she says. Pham’s core and extended family instilled the traditions and values of the Vietnamese culture in the children. “I searched to understand how to marry the two cultures, American and Vietnamese, in my life” recalls Pham. It wasn’t until she attended Seattle University and experienced the big city and

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cover stor y 2017 citizen of the year: dr. nhi pham

Jessica Dietsch works with Hope Creek Charitable Foundation, an organization that runs a dental van where Pham has been a regular for the past four years serving the homeless and underserved population in downtown Everett. She explains Pham’s appeal, “What I love about her is that she really cares about the patients. It’s scary enough to get on a random van in a parking lot when you’re in pain. She’s friendly and warm, and instead of getting right to work, she takes the time to talk with (patients) first and find out their stories. It’s amazing how many real connections she makes. Everybody loves her. She’s genuine and kind.”

cover stor y 2017 citizen of the year: dr. nhi pham All in the Pham-ily, clockwise from top: Kayla, Christian, Kovi, Dr. Pham, and Heaven.

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Becoming a dentist

Pham went into dentistry and her sister became a physician against their parents’ wishes. Her parents hoped both would become engineers like their aunts and uncles, and at one point, Pham imagined she would, as well. “I thought for sure I would become a engineer and own a Toyota just like all of my other relatives.”

While in high school, Pham ended up working for a physician, Dr. Leeon Aller, and an orthodontist, Dr. Daniel Taylor. Pham was responsible for typing up the dictated tapes of Dr. Aller’s medical mission work in Guatemala. It was her first introduction to mission work, and she was fascinated by it. She assisted Taylor at the front desk and chairside, and says it was when she first considered dentistry as a profession. “But when I went to my parents and told them I wanted to go into dentistry, they said, ‘No!’”, she recalls. “They didn’t understand it because no one in my family had gone into dentistry or healthcare. Even my older sister got an associate degree in engineering before she went on to medicine. We were raised to obey our parents’ wishes, and so it was out of character for me to tell them that I wanted to pursue dentistry. Finally they relented, but told me if I failed, I could always become an engineer.”

Pham excelled academically and received numerous scholarships, including Seattle U’s Sullivan Leadership Award, a full scholarship.

Father Jerry Cobb, Pham’s advisor, recalls, “When Nhi won it was only open to Washington state, but now it is open to the entire country. Students came to campus to write an essay, and some were invited back to interview. Of that, five students were chosen to receive the award, which provided tuition, room and board to Seattle U.” Pham also received the Washington Scholar’s award from her legislative branch that allowed her to attend any college in Washington State tuition free. She chose Seattle U not only because of the scholarship, but also because the school closely aligns with her faith. She explains, “I wanted to understand my faith better, and I wanted to learn the Jesuit values of St. Ignatius. My faith and the Jesuit teaching have a lot to do with where I come from and how I practice dentistry, and how I live my life.”

Practice life

“I thought about joining the Navy because I wanted to give back to the service that had done so much for my family, and there was a lot of recruiting for Navy dentists at the time.” There was just one problem – Pham couldn’t swim, so a Navy career seemed like a poor choice. Just before graduating from dental school, she met Dr. Joe Wellbaum, then-head of Community Health Center of Snohomish County. The two hit it off, and Pham expressed her interest in working at a CHC. Facing the choice between offers in the private sector or community health, Pham chose with her heart and decided on community health. “I knew that I could always go into private practice later in life, but I felt that this was my calling.” She joined the National Service Corp to care for underserved populations. Her contract was for two years but she loved it so much she ended up staying for almost four years. She had one day off a week and didn’t know what to do with the time, so she began

to teach hygiene and assisting at Lake Washington and Shoreline.

Pham explains, “My husband was finishing law school, and a day off is just an opportunity for me to cause trouble. We didn’t have kids yet, so I just took more on.”

Pham has been practicing for 18 years and has owned a successful Mukilteo practice for close to 15 years. In addition, she devotes an extraordinary amount of time to groups dear to her heart: veterans, international mission work, Vietnamese Youth Empowerment groups, the homeless, and students. “My brain is always going. With everything I do, I’m thinking about who I can reach out to, and how I can do more,” she says. “It’s exciting, and it’s the way I live my life. I love dentistry and my patients. Their support allows me to do the volunteer work. I am forever grateful for my Dental ‘Phamily’ at Mukilteo Dental Center. I am blessed to work with an amazing team of people who support and share the passions of my heart for community outreach.”

Volunteering

As we’ve said, Pham’s commitment to others is the stuff of legend, dating back to high school, a time when most students are more consumed with socializing, teen angst, and debates over flame broiling versus frying. While at Seattle U, Pham was a regular volunteer through Campus Ministry and the St. James’ Soup Kitchen and tutored inner city children in the Kids Literacy Project. It’s tough to comprehend how anyone could juggle a practice, family, and the level of community volunteerism that she does.

And while Pham says that some of her volunteer work happens virtually now, it’s still a huge commitment of time, expertise, and energy. From dental vans and Vietnamese cultural projects empowering young people, to mission trips in far-flung regions of the world and local neighborhoods, too, Pham gives back at least 10 hours a week to people in need. This year, in addition to her Greece mission, she’ll work on community dental vans with Medical Teams International, with veteran groups and several different veteran events, volunteer at homeless events in Everett, Seattle, and Tacoma, and more.

Bill Mays, Executive Director of MRI, says, “She’s obviously a great dentist, but she’s an amazing relational person. Most of the people who volunteer with us do their work and then return to their practice. When Dr. Pham is working in the clinic or out in the field, she has tremendous empathy for those she meets. She spends a lot of time developing relationships and befriending the local people. It’s not something that she does because it’s part of a personal agenda, it’s part of her DNA, it’s who she is. It’s her heart for providing help and care to people who have no way of returning anything for the care.”

All this volunteer work revitalizes Pham. “I go and perform dentistry in remote areas with no electricity or running water.

When I return to my practice, I’m more thankful and appreciative.

There were times when I was consumed with mommy guilt while abroad. However, my children became more independent while I was away. My family understands my passion to serve, and that I return happier and more fulfilled. They have volunteered with me locally, they can’t wait to serve overseas with me in the future.

On my recent mission trip to Ecuador, Pham was able to deliver clothing, shoes, and toys her daughters had donated to children in need. Her 11-year old daughter is learning how to sew so she can make baby blankets and baby hats for the new maternity clinic in Tanzania.

Part of Pham’s volunteer work is inspiring others to be involved, too. She explains, “Every day I come to work so thankful that I get to do what I do. I tell people that I love dentistry so much I would do

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cover stor y 2017 citizen of the year: dr. nhi pham

the wealth of diversity that she finally found peace within herself.

“Initially, I had wondered what my true identity was? What my role in the world was? Was I Vietnamese or American? I thought I’d have to sacrifice one for the other, and I learned that this wasn’t so, that I could embrace both. We all worry about being judged by others. I find that people appreciate and enjoy hearing about other people’s culture. I’m raising my children the same way. They’re learning about their Vietnamese culture and their Korean culture.”

(Pham’s husband is Korean.)

cover stor y 2017 citizen of the year: dr. nhi pham

Her Grandmother’s influence

About this photo:

“My grandmother had 11 children. My grandfather was placed in prison camp by the communists for expressing his faith several times, leaving her to raise and fend for the kids. She had only a fourth-grade education because women weren’t allowed the benefit of an education in third world countries.

She came to America in her 50s, learned how to drive, and became an American citizen. I remember quizzing her for her citizenship test. She learned about the revolution, the Constitution, all of it. I always admired her strength and she was a huge inspiration to me.

She was my first patient out of dental school. She had a broken tooth that needed attention, and she only trusted me. I had to borrow a friend’s office to do her crown. After that, she would always pray the rosary whenever I worked on her, and she’d usually gift me with a 50-pound bag of rice. It was awesome.

When we were kids, she would take care of us during the summer. There were about 40 grandkids, but she would teach us Vietnamese – grammar, reading and writing – even with just a fourth-grade education. She wanted to do whatever she could to keep our Vietnamese heritage and our faith intact.”

“Grandma loved red. It was her signature color. On the day of Pentecost, the clergy wear red vestments to signify the work of the Spirit. It is also customary for the people in the congregation to wear red to remind us of the fire of the Spirit. Grandma always wore red so proudly and boldly. I was always so timid to wear red most of my life.

As I began to understand how amazing my grandmother was, red became less ostentatious and more of a colorful reminder of the spirit that burns within us and watches over us. This is inspiration for the ao dai (traditional Vietnamese dress) that I’m wearing in the photograph.

I wore this ao dai as a tribute to my grandparents when I was emcee for the Vietnamese Youth Convention where several thousand young people from around the country converged to bridge the cultural divide and become empowered in their faith and their daily life.

Grandma was one of the biggest gifts God has bestowed upon me. Although we lost her on December 28, 2016, her spirit will live on for generations to come.”

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it for free. My role in volunteer outreach has evolved and changed.

There is only so much dentistry I can accomplish. I go on mission trips, and there are lines and lines of people in need. I came to the realization that I can have a greater impact by networking and recruiting volunteers.” She encourages her staff, patients, community, family, and friends to do their part, too. “There are so many amazing things happening in the community, it’s really awesome. I know that my interests might not be the same as everyone’s, so I support them in their roles and causes, too,” says Pham.

Teaching is another way that Pham gives back. When she attended UWSoD, she received a great education, but had few female instructors. “I had a lot of questions,” she says. “For instance, what is it like to raise a family and have a practice? How do you do this? I felt like I was lacking a female mentor, and was determined to change that if I could when I graduated.” Pham wanted to teach, but more than that, she wanted to spend time with students and mentor young women about how to create balance among family, practice, and volunteer outreach. Pham knows first-hand that balance is possible, and she’s happy to be a mentor to the next generation of female dentists. Her responsibilities at UWSoD, Lake Washington, and Shoreline have allowed her to do more than just teach sound dentistry. They give her a profound role in shaping the lives of young women entering the field.

Lynnwood, Wash. Spearheaded by the Snohomish County Human Services Department, the program is operated by Catholic Community Services of Western Washington and its sister agency, Catholic Housing Services. A month after the facility opened, Pham interviewed the veterans, collected their health history, and invited them to come to her office for treatment. She arranged transportation to and from the practice, and as a result of her efforts many of the residents have had dental treatment at her office. Pham also hosts an annual Freedom Day for veterans at her practice (this year she’ll host the third such event). “Last year, we donated more than $13,000 in care,” she says, explaining that she was saddened to learn that only veterans who are deemed 90 percent or more disabled qualify to receive benefits from the VA. Pham’s energy and ability to take on new projects seems endless.

Dr. Mike Karr says, “Besides her community outreach, I’m always seeing Facebook posts with her working with one community organization or another. Recently, she was making sandwiches and supporting the Youth Empowerment Day. She’s very involved with her church and her children, too. I wish I had half of her energy. I don’t know how she does it, but she always has time for her family.

Still, she’s becoming more and more involved with efforts taking place abroad.”

Veterans

At press time, Pham was busy finalizing details for MRI’s trip to Greece. Simultaneously, she was getting supplies in order for an additional mission trip to Tanzania, one that has outperformed beyond MRI’s wildest expectations. For the past few years, Pham has been hard at work with Medical Relief International to make the Barikiwa Clinic a reality in Maswa, Tanzania. Pham has done much to ensure the clinic’s success. From campaigning to raise funds for a clean a water source, to mentoring Dr. Ashley Lucas, a local from Tanzania whose dental education MRI has funded for six years, to funding two of the clinic’s operatories with her husband, Pham’s commitment to the clinic’s success has been unfaltering. “We’re so thankful for our blessings. We hope to create a legacy our daughters will be proud to visit one day.” The maternity center being built in Tanzania is also close to Pham’s heart. While volunteering in Haiti, Pham learned that most women and infants do not survive childbirth in third world countries. Her mother, Elizabeth Nghia Pham, spent more than 25 years as a social worker for Pregnancy Aid/WIC – Women Infants & Children. Pham was inspired to go into Community Health because of her mom’s dedication to social services for women and children.

Pham continues to be active in the Snohomish County Dental Society, something she has done since graduating from dental school. “I remember being in awe of all of the amazing people there. Some of them have become my closest friends, like family to me,” she says. “The camaraderie and support is amazing. I had very little money when I first graduated, but it meant a lot for me to be involved, to have the support system of colleagues, and to give back to schools like the UW and Seattle U. I love coming together as a group. When we stand together, we become stronger.

I think being a part of our awesome dental association is so very beneficial no matter where you are in your career.”

Pham is equally passionate about her work with veterans. As the child and granddaughter of veterans, and someone who credits veterans with saving the lives of so many of her family members, it’s easy to understand why. “I respect the people who made the choice to serve for their country, to fight for their values. Most of us are never put to the test, and those who do should be honored,” she says. When treating veterans, Pham asks about their personal stories, knowing that many, like Vietnam veterans, were shunned when they returned to the States. “I started showcasing the lives of veterans whenever they would give me permission, whether at the dental school or private practice, by taking their picture and telling their story,” she explains. “So many people responded to that.

We don’t honor our veterans enough, and though many are flourishing and living great lives, there are also many in need. Telling their story is just one way we can help to honor our veterans and their sacrifice.” Pham has worked with many Vietnamese veterans, too, through her grandfather’s work in the Orderly Departure Program, which helped get Vietnamese people resettled in the U.S. “Their dental needs are pretty intense because many were beaten in prison. It’s been amazing to be able to care for their needs,” says Pham. “Nobody really talks about the Vietnam War, especially within the Vietnamese community. The topic was almost taboo. Now I’m asking questions, and my parents and veterans are beginning to open up. For my parents and others, it was a survival mechanism. But if the next generation doesn’t learn from the past, are they doomed to repeat it? We need to understand the sacrifices our parents and veterans have made that allow us to have the freedoms we have today.”

Last year, Pham became involved with Sebastian Place, a permanent housing facility for 20 formerly homeless veterans in

The year ahead

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cover stor y 2017 citizen of the year: dr. nhi pham

“We all have to remember we are members of a larger global community. We need to give hope to children, especially young girls the world over, that despite gender, race, or circumstance, you can rise above and make your dreams come true. I am a female, a woman of color, and an immigrant. I am where I am because of blessings from above and I will continue to dedicate my life to serving.”

STRATEGIC PLAN WASHINGTON STATE DENTAL ASSOCIATION

When the WSDA Board of Directors and staff first started working on the strategic plan 15 months ago, the task seemed sisyphean. With so many objectives how would anything get accomplished? The answer: by first sorting the tasks into key areas, or Priorities, then creating smaller, more manageable tasks, or Goals, and assigning responsibility for completion of those goals.

Further, the Board and staff set realistic timelines, and distributed the workload among themselves. What follows here are the Strategic Priorities for the WSDA first determined by the WSDA Board 15 months ago, followed by the Strategic Goals and the actions that will be taken to make them a reality.

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WSDA empowers its members to advocate for and provide optimal oral health care.

VISION STATEMENT

All Washington dentists are fully supported to provide optimal oral health care.

STRATEGIC PRIORITIES Strategic Priorities are areas of focus, derived from the Mission & Vision Statements, which set the medium-term work of the organization. Strategic Priorities provide actionable structure to the more abstract Mission and Vision.

Advocacy & External Communication

Advance solutions that promote the health and safety of all people in Washington. Showcase the good works of dentists and organized dentistry in Washington.

Leadership & Governance

Expand leadership opportunities for members and increase the approachability of our governance activities, volunteer leaders, and staff.

Relationships

Build trusting and collaborative relationships, internally with our members, component societies, peer state dental associations, and the American Dental Association; and externally with nonmembers and other key stakeholders.

Education & Financial Stability

Continually improve the quality of patient care through education. Ensure adequate funding for all Association activities and services through sustainable investments and non-dues revenue.

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association news strategic plan over view

MISSION STATEMENT

association news strategic plan over view

STRATEGIC GOALS (SG) 2017-2020 Strategic Goals are specific, measureable actions that the organization will take to achieve its Strategic Priorities. Goals must either be “SMART” (specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, time bound) goals or “Kaizen” (continuous improvement – plan, do, check, act, repeat) goals.

Advocacy & External Communication SG A. Safeguard the doctor and patient relationship from external influences.

A. Redefine the dental benefits marketplace to minimize third-party influence in patient care.

A. Take prudent legislative, regulatory, legal, and/or program action that will reduce third-party influence in patient care or improve the dental insurance market place for patients and providers.

B. Improve and protect the definition of dentistry and encourage enforcement when the definition is violated.

A. Take prudent legislative, regulatory, legal, and/or program action that reduce external influences on the doctor and patient relationship.

SG C. Build a robust advocacy program that fortifies working relationships with legislators, state agencies, and health care and business organizations.

A. Establish personal relationships between WSDA members and every legislator and key executive branch leaders.

A. Increase the rate of return of candidate questionnaires from 49.2% to 55% in 2020.

B. Strengthen partnerships with the Office of the Insurance Commissioner, Department of Health, Health Care Authority, Office of the Attorney General, and other state agencies to further the Association’s advocacy agenda.

C. Identify health care and business organizations and other professional or trade associations, such as the School Nurses’ Organization of Washington or Washington Education Association, which can be key strategic partners, find opportunities for collaboration, and execute identified opportunities.

D. Ensure that the Association has a Political Action Committee commensurate with its advocacy agenda.

A. Grow contributions to DentPAC to make it a $1 million per cycle political action committee by the 2020 election cycle.

SG B. Reduce barriers to care for underserved patient populations.

SG D. Develop a comprehensive, strategic communications plan that highlights pro-active policy solutions and the good works of dentists across the state.

A. Increase the number of dental GPR/AEGD residency positions across Washington to more than 65 by 2020 and 75 by 2025.

Leadership & Governance

B. Develop and implement a proactive policy agenda for a financially-sustainable dental Medicaid benefit.

C. Work with the Association’s Foundation, component societies, charitable clinics, and other safety net entities to expand access to care for vulnerable adult patients.

D. Oppose legislative efforts that add unnecessary risk to the delivery of care.

SG E. Expand the leadership pipeline for the Association and component societies.

A. Collaborate with component societies to improve leadership training opportunities and to identify future leaders.

B. Refine the Leadership Institute and other mentorship programs.

C. Reach out to all affiliate dental organizations.

D. Collaborate with all Association boards and committees to define desired skill sets and position descriptions for each group.

SG F. Evaluate the purpose and function of the WSDA House of Delegates.

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SG L. Participate in and partner with all dental organizations on initiatives that will benefit our members.

A. Refine the orientation process for new directors and committee or task force members.

A. Work with the ADA and component societies to effectively implement the Aptify membership database.

B. Assess the process, structure, and scope of existing standing committees.

C. Refine self-evaluation tools for all Association boards and committees.

B. Explore strategic partnerships with any group or association devoted to the practice of dentistry that provides valuable benefits and services to members.

SG H. Utilize a routine process to identify and mitigate internal and external risks and opportunities to the Association and its members.

Education & Financial Stability SG M. Advance quality patient care within Washington.

A. Preserve uniform standards of quality care by expanding understanding of jurisprudence and ethical principles developed by the American Dental Association and Dental Quality Assurance Commission.

SG I. Instill a culture of inclusivity, positive inquiry, and respect in all actions and communications between members, leaders, and staff.

B. Provide members and their staff with continuing education opportunities by offering high-quality courses through the Pacific Northwest Dental Conference and WSDA Academy.

SG J. Initiate a dialog with components on ways to improve effective communication and collaboration to benefit our members.

A. Increase the number of members who annually attend a WSDA continuing education event to 34% of active membership.

A. Collaboratively develop a menu of services that WSDA can offer both staffed and unstaffed components.

B. Collaboratively enact efforts to improve communication between WSDA leaders and component society leaders, WSDA leaders and members, and component society leaders and members.

B. Ensure that 20% of the elements in WSDA’s continuing education events are new and innovative each year from 2018 to 2020.

C. Revise and implement an annual survey for PNDC that includes an overall satisfaction metric for the event.

C. Devise and implement an annual communications survey for the membership and develop metrics for assessing and increasing membership satisfaction.

D. Increase the number of members who log on to and use the WSDA website to 35% of total membership.

A. Implement an annual survey for Washington Dentists’ Insurance Agency’s clients that includes an overall satisfaction metric.

SG K. Build stronger relationships with all dentists in Washington through robust recruitment and retention efforts.

B. Support Washington Dentists’ Insurance Agency in improving its operational efficiencies and overall customer satisfaction.

Relationships

A. Achieve a membership demographic makeup that is reflective of the demographic makeup of all licensed, actively practicing dentists in Washington.

B. Achieve a 70% statewide membership market share by 2019 calendar year end.

C. Maintain an average annual newly licensed dentist membership conversion rate of 73% from 2017 to 2020.

C. Provide members and their staff with education about and access to insurance products necessary to practice dentistry and run a dental practice.

SG N. Maintain the Association’s financial stability so it can support member dentists.

A. Based on 2016 membership, increase non-dues revenue to 65% of the Association’s operating budget and to present a balanced budget to the membership by Fiscal Year 2019-2020.

B. Continuously explore options for improving operational efficiencies that reduce operational costs and provide organizational benefit.

C. Maintain an appropriate level of reserves.

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SG G. Improve effectiveness and culture of the WSDA Board of Directors, committees, and task forces.

member news ser ving nationally

ADA SERVICE: MEET WSDA MEMBERS WHO HOLD NATIONAL POSTS IN THIS SERIES 2 2 路 th e wsda ne w s 路 issue 8, august 路 2017 路 www.wsda.org

In several recent issues, we introduced you to WSDA members serving on ADA councils and committees. We’re excited about the influence our state is having on dialogue and policies at the national level, where we’ve often been viewed as outsiders and firebrands. In this issue, we meet the last two WSDA members serving nationally: Dr. Linda Edgar and Dr. Greg Ogata. Both have served nationally in other positions, Edgar as president of the AGD, and Ogata as chairman of Government Affairs for the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO). The WSDA News sat down with them to talk about their experience representing the WSDA in national posts.

Dr. Linda Edgar – Council on Dental Practice

Dr. Linda Edgar currently sits on the Board of Directors of the WSDA, having already risen through the ranks at the component level (she was president of the executive council at SKCDS), and serving nationally as an ADA delegate for 15 years. She starts her sixth term at this year’s ADA meeting, so she’s well-versed in the intricacies of national politics. She and her husband, Dr. Bryan Edgar, recently sold their practice, but aren’t retiring fully just yet.

They continue to work in the practice a couple of days a week, but tapering off has left them the time to devote to service elsewhere.

“It’s important to me to work collaboratively with organizations, more so now that we’re retiring,” says Edgar. “We weren’t really ready to be done with the practice, but the timing was right. I like to be busy, so I will keep looking for opportunities.”

One such opportunity was serving on the Council on Dental Practice, something she describes as a catch-all to everything related to practicing dentistry, such as products and practice success. Like the other councils, it’s comprised of 17 members, but its reach is greater, its goals loftier. This council works to protect patients and practitioners, teaches how to make practices more successful, and recommends the best products and technology for the dental industry. “There are so many tentacles to the council that I feel like it takes a person who has been around for a while to have the knowledge to really contribute,” says Edgar. “I’ve pretty much had my hands in every area of dental practice. From research to team building, to collaborating with all kinds of groups like the dental assistant’s association and exhibitors, I felt like I had something to offer the council.”

Benchmarking organized dentistry

The council is currently working on a benchmarking project collecting data about practices so that the ADA can help guide dentists to be more successful. But, Edgar explains, they’re having a hard time getting people to contribute because data collection can be time consuming, and dentists are notoriously guarded about information concerning their practices. Edgar bemoans,

“People pay consultants a lot of money to do this, and the ADA will do it for free, so I hope people will get on board with the project.”

In order to cover so much ground, the council apportions much of its work among many subcommittees, including those devoted to wellness, guidelines (sedation, sleep apnea, any medical guidelines, and obesity), assistants, hygienists, corporate practice, dental product testing, and informatics testing. The informatics testing subcommittee will monitor information technology as it relates to hardware and software, including imaging, and 3D technology. In addition to her own subcommittee responsibilities, Edgar recently pinch-hit for a member of the Standards Committee on Dental Products (SCDA), which held a three-day meeting devoted to standardizing products in the U.S. and around the world last March. In addition to dentists, the group included toxicologists and representatives from the FDA, the armed services, and dental companies.

Because of its broad scope, the council and its members are often asked to weigh in on the conclusions of other councils and committees within the ADA. “There is a lot of cross-collaboration between our council and others,” Edgar explains. “We’re like the alphabet soup of dentistry.” All of this ground to cover made us wonder: Does the group ever reach a consensus? “Actually,” says Edgar, “considering the vast array of topics we cover, we say what we feel and listen when other people are presenting. When we vote, I find that we’re pretty well aligned. We remain open to data and try not to let emotions cloud that data.” One recent example was CADCAM. Edgar explains, “Some are passionate about it, and others are passionate against it. We listened to the experts, looked at the data, and made a decision based on facts. The system worked.”

Up next

So, is this Edgar’s last hurrah? Hardly. “I like to be busy,” she says. “If I feel like I can still contribute, I would like to. I’ve been involved my whole career in something, in almost every aspect of dentistry. Like everyone, I want to feel useful, but if there are others better equipped for the job, I will step aside. It’s really all about the best person for the position.”

Dr. Greg Ogata — Council on Government Affairs

Dr. Greg Ogata is also well-known in organized dentistry in Washington, having served as the WSDA’s president, and more recently, on the AAO’s Committee on Government Affairs (including chairing the committee), and Political Action Committee, but he has never served nationally with the ADA before. He jumped at the chance to join the council, even though it isn’t for a full term.

Dr. Rick Asai, the 11th District Trustee, appointed Ogata to fill in for Dr. Pat Haggerty, who had to step down because he’s helping get the GPR program off the ground in Oregon. According to the bylaws, appointees who fill a post for more than two years can’t be reappointed. Because he has been in the post for 2½ years, Ogata isn’t eligible, but that doesn’t mean he isn’t making the most of his tenure. Politics, he explains, is in his wheelhouse: “Everyone is good at something. My strength has always been politics at both the state and national levels. I keep tabs on what’s happening in D.C., so I’m plugged into the national political scene.” As Ogata points out, normal rules don’t apply in D.C. You have to have continued on page 25

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member news ser ving nationally

Editor’s note: At the American Dental Association (ADA), there are 10 councils whose work is to define what the Association does for its members in areas such as advocacy, education, and ethics. Most councils are composed of one member from each of the 17 trustee districts of the Association. All must be active, life, or retired members of the Association in good standing. Most councils meet twice a year, either at the ADA headquarters in Chicago or in the Washington, D.C., office.

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connections and relationships to make anything successful there, whether it’s with a member of Congress or his or her staff. Ogata explains, “If they know you, or at least recognize you, you have a huge advantage. It takes years to build that up. Mike Spektor and Jeff Parrish are both amazing at building relationships on the national stage, so that’s what I have gravitated towards. I find that everybody finds the one thing that sparks them, and this is what sparks me.”

The council holds half of its meetings in D.C., and half at ADA HQ in Chicago. Members discuss candidates, get an overview of current political news, and review regulations that affect dentistry, so that they can communicate that to candidates. For the most part, Ogata works at raising money and helping to determine who gets it. He explains that the council tries to have contact with every lawmaker at least once a year, and typically that includes delivering a check. The money that’s disbursed doesn’t come from a dues statement line item, however. The council first appeals to trustees to give, knowing that once leaders are on board, others will often follow suit. “We raised just shy of $2 million in the past two years nationally through member appeals,” says Ogata. “All of the members of the Board of Trustees maxed out last year, and when we go to the House of Delegates, I go around to all 11th

District delegates and appeal to them to give, as well.” The vast majority of the money the council bestows is at the federal level, but in the past, it has given funds to state candidates, especially when dentists are running for state legislative positions.

This has been an interesting year, to say the least. The machinations of the current administration have muddied the political waters in D.C., and there’s no end in sight. “It’s important to me to stay involved because, as you know, it only takes one bad decision or law to have sweeping effect on everything,” says Ogata. “I’ve never been more excited about it, especially going into this administration, where they claim to be committed to healthcare reform.

We don’t know what it will look like with the new administration, and that could fundamentally change everything about us.” But healthcare reform is only one issue in the tangle — tax reform is near and dear to organized dentistry because, as Ogata points out, “Dentists wear two hats – the small business owner hat and one for healthcare. Guess what, any healthcare reform will affect both areas. These directly affect dentists and their practices, so I love being involved right now, no matter how chaotic it might be. All our friends and colleagues in the profession are affected.”

letter to the editor I once asked the owner of a thriving Seattle-area restaurant chain his secret for success. “Paying attention,” he said, without hesitating. I thought of that response recently when I was shown a posting on our practice’s Facebook page, placed by our website firm. It went into all the benefits of having crowns made onsite in the dental office. The only problem is that we have always decided to delegate labor-intensive lab procedures to the experts in the independent off-site lab. So I am now paying more attention to previewing our postings.

As dentists, we have always been warned to pay attention to renewing our license before our birthday because it can be very expensive not to. If your license is late due to a mistake by you, your staff, the post office or the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) staff, the dental insurance carriers can’t legally pay your dental claims, and your liability carrier can’t legally pay any malpractice claims during the term of your licensure suspension. Your personal damages could approach six figures in a very short time.

The WSDA House of Delegates passed four resolutions from 2012 through 2015 asking Olympia to address license renewal reform, but no one down there seems to care. Until they do, you have to pay attention not only to your dentist’s license annual renewal date, but also to your hygienists’ and assistants’ renewal dates. If you allow any of them to provide direct patient treatment without a valid license or registration, your malpractice coverage will not cover any of you for any claim made against the practice during the delinquent period. And late renewals are not retroactive.

That’s right, the dentist’s liability insurance is contingent on the doctor AND auxiliaries having an active license (RDH) or registration (DA). No licenses, no coverage. They expect you, the dentist, to have a system in place to monitor your staff’s credentials. As always, check with your advisors in doing your own due diligence.

The first step is to go to the DOH webpage and check each of your staff members’ status under “Provider Credentials.” Then check your own status.

If you think late renewals are a rarity, take a look at the DOH’s statistics below. I find them shocking in scale.

If this data is extrapolated to the end of 2017, 10,000 licenses/ registrations will have been renewed past the deadline over the last 10 years, leaving 10,000 licenses suspended for various lengths of times, leaving way too many practices needlessly exposed to lost claims and lawsuits (until the statute of limitations runs out).

The system is broken and in need of reform by the DOH, who created it. So, they should lobby the Legislature to help fix it. Part of the DOH’s mission to protect the public should be to ensure that every healthcare provider is backed by malpractice insurance.

Otherwise, many patients could end up paying a huge price for their mistaken assumptions about being protected.

In the meantime, as dentists, all we can do is reread Murphy’s Law, and .... pay attention.

Victor J. Barry, DDS Seattle

Count of late renewals Profession

2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 Total

Assistant License

4

Hygiene License

178 155 142 125 141 143 175 132 152 43 1386

Dental License

139 120 94 62 54 58 64 72 79 19 761

Yearly Total

321 888 1334 924 983 1040 1246 1159 1289 339 9523

613 1098 737 788 839 1007 955 1058 277 7376

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letter to the editor dr. vic barr y

Dr. Jennings:

member news continued

serving nationally, continued from page 25

2017 hod information hod news

w a s h i n g t o n · s t a t e · d e n t a l · a s s o c i a t i o n

SKAMANIA 2017

wsda house of delegates

september14-16 stevenson,washington

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Committee on Government Affairs: One position, one three-year term

11th District Trustee to the ADA Board of Trustees: One position, four-year term beginning October 2018

Delegates to the ADA House: Four positions--three positions, three-year terms; one position, two-year term; beginning January 2018 (effective 2018, WSDA is allocated 13 total delegates, up from 12)

President-elect: One year and three years as ADA Delegate Board of Directors: Four positions, three-year terms Committee on Budget and Finance: One position, four-year term

Note: One position is reserved for a first-time delegate with prior alternate experience per bylaws*

RESOLUTION SUMMARIES REGULAR BUSINESS

The following resolutions are submitted every year as part of the regular business of the House of Delegates HD-01-2017 Rules for the House of Delegates – September 2017

Establishes the rules for the 2017 House of Delegates. Submitted by the President.

HD-02-2017 Committees and Parliamentarian for Annual Meeting of House of Delegates - September 2017

Names members of Credentials Committee, Rules and Order Committee, and appoints a parliamentarian for the House of Delegates. Submitted by the President.

HD-03-2017 Acceptance of WSDA Audit For the Year Ending September 30, 2016 Submitted by the Committee on Budget and Finance.

HD-04-2017 WSDA 2017/2018 Budget

Proposes the operating budget for 2017/2018 fiscal year. Submitted by the Committee on Budget and Finance.

HD-05-2017 WSDA Dues for 2018 (Bylaw Amendment)

Proposes a schedule of dues. Submitted by the Committee on Budget and Finance.

HD-06-2017 Nominations for Elective Office

Submits names for nomination for offices indicated in the resolution, with the understanding that further nominations can be made from the floor. Submitted by the Task Force on Nominations.

HD-07-2017 Location of the 2020 House of Delegates

To be proposed by the Committee on Budget and Finance.

HD-08-2017 WSDA Legislative Agenda for 2018

Reaffirms the policy in determining its annual legislative agenda, and adopts legislative positions in preparation for the 2018 session of the Washington State Legislature. Submitted by the Committee on Government Affairs.

HD-09-2017 Staff Recognition

Establishes which staff members will be honored at the 2017 HOD per HD-10-2015.

2017 RESOLUTIONS

The following resolutions were submitted by various entities.

HD-10-2016 Nomination for Honorary Membership

Calls for Mr. Alan Wicks, who has served as legal counsel to the Washington State Dental Association since 1984 to be nominated, after 33 years of service, for honorary membership in the Washington State Dental Association.

HD-11-2017 Enhancing the Association’s Legislative and Regulatory Advocacy (Bylaw Amendment)

Calls for the dissolution of the Committee on Government Affairs and the creation of the Committee on Regulatory Affairs to enhance the WSDA’s advocacy efforts.

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HD-12-2017 Concerning the Committee on Pacific Northwest Dental Conference (Bylaw Amendment)

Calls for the Committee on PNDC to assume the duty of nominating members and the chair to the Committee on PNDC.

HD-13-2017 Financial Audit Requirement (Bylaw Amendment)

Allows for a change in the frequency of WSDA audits to no less than every other fiscal year. Currently audits are required every year.

HD-14-2017 Regarding Mandatory Dues Contribution to DentPAC (Bylaws Amendment)

Calls for a mandatory dues contribution of $100 per member, per year. (an increase of $25 over current mandatory contribution.

HD-15-2017 WSDA Disability Support Program

Calls for the creation of an effective and efficient disability support protocol.

HD-16-2017 Sugar Education Program

Calls for the appointment of a task force that will identify materials for dentists to use to educate the public about the impact of sugar on oral health.

open positions, resolution summaries

The following elective positions are to be filled at the 2017 WSDA House of Delegates meeting:

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OPEN POSITIONS

candidate profiles hod news

Dr. Marissa Bender

Dr. Christopher Delecki

President-elect Dr. Christopher Delecki Candidate Statement I am honored to be nominated as a candidate for President-elect of the Washington State Dental Association. My educational and professional experiences position me well as an exceptional candidate who will bring a unique skill set to the Association.

Two of the “hot” issues facing organized dentistry are access to care and the inclusion and retention of young dentists in our professional organization.

In regard to the access issues facing our profession, I am one of a few dentists who can bridge the gap between those community-based or public health organizations promoting nontraditional and unacceptable changes in the current practice model and our profession. I have provided dental care in the community clinic setting for some of the most challenging low-income patients needing dental care. I have worked in rural America for several years as an Indian Health Service Dentist and as a host dentist on the SmileMobile. I thoroughly understand the access issues facing our profession.

As an affiliate assistant professor for the University of Washington’s School of Dentistry and an attending dentist at Seattle Children’s, I have mentored many young dentists. I thoroughly understand and appreciate the issues facing our young peers. I am sensitive to their concerns and can well represent their interests within the Association.

My involvement and accomplishments with the Seattle-King County Dental Society speak well to my dedication, imagination, and leadership. I look forward to your support!

Current Positions SKCDS Access Committee, 13 years Seattle Central College Dental Hygiene Advisory Committee, 10 years WSDA Board of Directors, 4 years

UWSoD Affiliate Assistant Professor, 15 years King County Health Board Member, 4 years Former Positions WSDA Committee on Budget & Finance, 4 years SKC Dental Society Executive Counsel and President, 4 years Professional Affiliations American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry Pierre Fauchard Academy American College of Dentistry Education DDS, University of Michigan, ‘77 MBA, City University, ‘84 MPH, University of Michigan, ‘92 Other AAPD Native American Head Start Consultant, 3 years WSOHC Oral Health Coalition Member, 15 years WDS Foundation SmileMobile Host Dentist, 10 years Seattle Vo-Tech Dental Assistant Advisory Board, 15 years

WSDA Board Dr. Marissa Bender Candidate Statement If there is anything the past three years of serving on the WSDA Board has taught me, it is this: It takes time, commitment, and great effort to learn the ropes and be effective and productive. My time on the Board has been spent working within the organizational structure, listening to and learning from the experts, and putting these lessons to good use. I have strived to be a contributing member of the team in order for us to accomplish our tasks, realize our goals, meet the challenges

Dr. Chris Dorow

we constantly have to face from all directions, and keep us moving forward.

We have a great group of leaders, and I am proud to be working with each and every one of them.

WSDA has come a long way, but we cannot rest on our laurels. We have to keep pace with the changing times, and be proactive. I bring experience and motivation to the table. With your continued support, I would like to keep serving, so that our organization remains an important advocate for our profession, our patients, and our members.

Current Positions WSDA Board Member, 3 years WAGD Treasurer, 1 year Edmonds Center for the Arts Board Member, 1 year St. Pius X Catholic Church Head Lector, 12 years Cagayan Valley Association of Washington Executive Committee Member, 4 years Former Positions SCDS Executive Committee member and President, 7 years WSDA Committee on Budget and Finance Member and Chair, 4 years Cagayan Valley Association of Washington President, 4 years Professional Affiliations WSDA SCDS WAGD International College of Dentists Pierre Fauchard Academy Education DMD, University of Pennsylvania, School of Dental Medicine, ‘01 MBA, City University of Seattle, ‘96 DMD, University of the East, Manila, Philippines

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Dr. Chris Dorow Candidate Statement I am Chris Dorow and I am running for election to the WSDA Board of Directors. It’s truly an honor to be nominated and to have the opportunity to represent the concerns of my passion and profession. As a second-generation dentist, I realized the importance of organized dentistry even as a student, and had the opportunity to serve the WSDA as its first student delegate to the WSDA House of Delegates. From that time on, I have been able to serve organized dentistry in a number of different ways, including my time on the WDIA Board of Directors, the WSDA Foundation Board of Directors, and the DENTPAC Board of Directors.

Dentistry faces a lot of changes and challenges, from both internal and external forces. I feel my experience with the organization gives me a strong background to address those challenges, as well as the ability to recognize opportunity and the willingness to act on it.

As a dentist from a small rural town in eastern Washington, I think I can provide a somewhat unique perspective to the WSDA board. I also bring a somewhat unique leadership background with my experience serving as the senior vice president of the board of directors of a $250 million international charity.

Current Positions DentPAC Board Member, ‘14 - present WSDA Foundation BOD, Vice-President, ‘13 - Present WSDA House of Delegates, Delegate, ‘94 - present Grant Co. Dental Society, Past President (‘01), ‘95 - present WSDA Ambassador, ‘16 - present Former Positions WSDA Communication Committee, ‘95 - ‘97 WSDA Membership Services, ‘97 - ‘00

Dr. Christine Kirchner

WIDA Board Member (Sec ‘12), ‘00 - ‘12 UWSoD Student President, ‘94 - ‘95 Professional Affiliations Pierre Fauchard Academy ADA WSDA Education DDS, UWSoD, ‘95 Other WA Ducks Unlimited, State Chair, ‘02 - ‘04 Ducks Unlimited, Inc. Senior Vice President, ‘10 - ‘17 Rotary International, past Chapter President, ‘95 - present City of Othello, WA Planning Commission, ‘14 - present WDFW Citizens Advisory Group, Past Chairman, ‘00 - present

Dr. John Gibbons Candidate Statement There will always be forces that will challenge our profession. It is important that we are ready to meet those challenges with a plan of action, wherein we guide the outcomes for what is best for our profession and our patients. I have spent the last two years on the Board of Trustees of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, and that experience has been valuable in understanding how to approach these challenges. This last year I had the honor of serving on the WDSA Committee on Government Affairs. I have found that many of the problems that we face here in Washington are not unique; other states have already faced them with various results. It is important that we look to these other states, and see what worked and what did not.

Current Positions American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry

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Dr. I. Blake McKinley

Western District Trustee, ‘15 - ‘17 Washington State Academy of Pediatric Dentistry Public Policy Advocate, ‘12 - ‘17 WSDA House of Delegates, ‘16 - ‘17 WSDA Committee on Government Affairs Member, ‘16 - ‘17 WSDA Task Force on Administration of Dental Medicaid Chair, ‘17 Former Positions WSAPD President, ‘09 - ‘10 Western Society of Pediatric Dentistry President, ‘14 - ‘15 ADA House of Delegates Alternate Delegate, ‘16 WSDA Task Force on the ACA Exchange Member, ‘12 Professional Affiliations ADA/WSDA American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry Washington State Academy of Pediatric Dentistry Western Society of Pediatric Dentistry American College of Dentist Education Certificate in Pediatric Dentistry, OHSU, ‘85 DMD, Washington University of St. Louis School of Dentistry, ‘83 BS, BYU, ‘99 Other UW Pediatric Department Affiliate Instructor

Dr. Christine Kirchner Candidate Statement I have enjoyed serving as a member of the Board of Directors for the Washington State Dental Association this past year.

WSDA works to promote the interests of dentists as decision- makers, patient care providers, and

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candidate profiles

Dr. John Gibbons

candidate profiles hod news

Dr. William Petersen

small business owners. I have been able to provide proactive ideas and feedback for issues that have risen this past year, from the sale of NORDIC to the legislative agenda for 2017 to working on strategic goals to build relationships that will help to increase our membership. I am currently working on a task force to develop a curriculum for a dental navigator for the state of Washington.

I have been a solo practitioner for the past 18 years. I enjoy being a small business owner and a primary care provider, and I would like to preserve that option for future dentists. I would appreciate your vote for the WSDA Board of Directors, so that I can continue to work with the WSDA to make positive decisions that will benefit the dental profession.

Current Positions WSDA Board Member, ’16-’17 WSDA Dent Pac Board Member, ‘13 - ‘18 WSDA House SKCDS Delegate, ‘12 - ‘19 Former Positions Seattle King County Dental Foundation Board of Directors, P resident ‘12 - ‘15, and board member ‘09 - ‘15 Seattle King County Event Planning Committee Chair ‘05 - ‘08, and committee member ‘03 - ‘08 Professional Affiliations International College of Dentists The Dawson Academy ADA, WSDA and King County Dental Society University of the Pacific Alumni Association American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry Education DDS, University of the Pacific School of Dentistry, ‘99 BA, Biology, Central Washington University, ‘95

Dr. Josh Walker

Dr. Amy Cook

Other Central Washington University Alumni Association, ‘00 - ‘17 Central Washington University Athletic Advisory Board, ‘02 - ‘07

WSDA, DentPAC Board/Vice-Chair, ’11 - ‘12 WSDA, Committee on Budget and Finance, Chair, ‘10 - ‘11 SDDS, Nominating Committee, ‘11 - ‘14 SDDS, President, ‘10 - ‘11

Dr. Blake McKinley, Jr.

Professional Affiliations Spokane District Dental Society Washington State Dental Association American Dental Association American Association of Endodontists Boston University Endodontic Alumni Association

Candidate Statement Dentistry affords many opportunities. For a large number of dentists, there is the opportunity to own and operate your own business in a manner that suits your personality. For others, there is the opportunity to provide care in a community service setting, and yet others have the opportunity to teach at the university setting. A common link between these arenas is the opportunity to participate through the Washington State Dental Association and collaborate in order to maintain a strong and viable dental health care model. The WSDA accomplishes this through the Pacific Northwest Dental Conference, DentPAC, WOHF, Budget and Finance Committee, and a variety of tireless efforts by the WSDA staff, all under the direction of the WSDA Board of Directors.

While dentistry affords these many opportunities, there are forces out there that we must remain vigilant against in order to safeguard the delivery of dental health to Washington state citizens. I have been fortunate to participate in a variety of committee positions at the local level, including Spokane District Dental Society president, and currently represent SDDS as a Delegate to the House. At the state level, I participate through the Pacific Northwest Dental Conference, DentPAC Board, and Committee on Budget and Finance.

Through these positions I have developed a good foundation for the operations of our state dental association. I would like to apply my efforts toward maintaining a strong organization by participating on the Washington State Dental Association Board of Directors, and I would appreciate your vote.

Former Positions SDDS, Delegate to the House, ‘06 - ‘08 and ‘14 - ‘16

Education DDS, Creighton University, ‘95 CAGS, Boston University, ‘97

Dr. William Petersen Candidate Statement It has been a great honor serving on the WSDA Committee on Budget and Finance this past year.

I am also on the task force to determine how best to invest the proceeds from the sale of our interest in NORDIC. I feel that this experience will benefit and strengthen my ability to contribute to the workings of the Board.

Today, I see the traditional model of dentistry at a crossroads. Our profession is facing many challenges. These include: corporate dentistry; midlevel providers; reduced insurance payments; increased overhead; increased student debt; access to care; and decreasing membership. I believe that these challenges will require input from individuals working collaboratively to resolve these issues, so that our profession will continue to thrive and not follow the fate of our colleagues (physicians).

We must encourage our membership to take a proactive role with our Legislature, and educate John Q. Public about the important role that dentistry plays in one’s health.

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I thank you in advance for considering me as a candidate for the Board, and respectfully ask for your vote.

Current Positions WSDA House of Delegates, ‘15 - present WSDA Budget and Finance Committee, ‘16 - present SDDS President-elect, ‘17 WSDA Investment Task Force, present SDDS Executive Council, ‘15 - ‘17 Former Positions Treasurer, SDDS SDDS Budget and Finance Committee SDDS Continued Ed. Committee, ‘74 - 75 Professional Affiliations ADA WSDA SODS Education Gonzaga University Eastern Washington University Rotating Hospital Internship UW, ‘67 Other Morning Star Boys Ranch, volunteer dentist, 21 years Good Shepard Home, volunteer dentist, 5 years Instructor UWSoD, ‘68 - ‘69 Manito Cannon Hill Neighborhood Council, 2 years

Dr. Ted Baer

Committee on Budget and Finance Dr. Josh Walker Candidate Statement I believe that organized dentistry is vital to the health and success of our profession. I have been involved with organized dentistry since dental school, and want to continue to play an active role. Protecting and improving our profession is something I value and want to be a part of. I have served at the local level on the Budget and Finance Committee for SKCDS for the past two years, and am excited for the opportunity to serve at the state level with the WSDA. Thank you for your support.

Current Positions SKCDS Budget and Finance Committee Member, 2 years Professional Affiliations Academy of General Dentistry Academy of Osseointegration American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry University of Washington Dental Alumni Association Education DDS, UWSoD, ‘12

Committee on Government Affairs Dr. Amy Cook Candidate Statement As a dentist who has written draft legislation, met with legislators, and lobbied and testified for

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Dr. Bruce Kinney

our profession and our patients in Olympia, I am prepared to represent Washington state dentists as a member of the Committee on Government Affairs. My passion for putting our communities first and protecting quality of care fuels the work I have done so far, and keeps me eager to learn about our changing political environment. Our Association must represent the interests of the single- office practitioners, and position them to succeed in the future. I would like to contribute to that success.

Current Positions Executive Council, SKCDS, .5 (took over position) Alternate Delegate, ADA House, 1 year SKCDS Delegate, WSDA House, 2 years Board Member, South King Multicare Foundation, 1 year Committee member, Blue Ribbon Committee for a Healthy Auburn, 2 months Professional Affiliations SKCDS WSDA ADA Education DDS, UWSoD, ‘06 BA, UW, ‘02

Dr. Andrew Sholudko Candidate Statement I would like to be on the Committee on Government Affairs for the WSDA so that I can help shape and implement the dental-related policies put forth by the House. Since entering the dental profession, I have had a strong interest in the legislative side of dentistry at the local, state, and national levels. When I was the District 1 Trustee for ASDA, I served on the Governance Committee, and developed an appreciation for how important and satisfying it is to be involved in shaping the

continued on page 32

candidate profiles

Dr. Andrew Sholudko

candidate profiles hod news

Dr. Ron Marsh

direction of our profession as we move forward.

I have been practicing dentistry for a few years in Washington. Currently, I am serving on the Executive Committee of my the Snohomish County Dental Society, and I have been elected to a threeyear term as a WSDA delegate. If selected, I would like to share the knowledge and experience I have attained through my career with the Committee on Government Affairs. Serving on the committee would provide me the opportunity to learn and grow as a member of the profession, and also spread awareness of various issues to my constituents on a local level. I look forward to helping in any way that I can, and thank you for your consideration to be on the Committee on Government Affairs.

Current Positions ADA Member, ‘13 - present WSDA Member, Delegate, ‘14 -present SCDS Executive Committee Member, ‘14 - present AGD Member, ‘13 - present WAGD Member, ‘14 - present Former Positions ASDA District 1 Trustee, National Delegate, Local Leader, ‘09 - ‘13 CSDA Member, Washington Leadership Conference Attendee, ‘13 - ‘14 Professional Affiliations ADA WSDA SCDS AGD WAGD Education DMD, UConn School of Dental Medicine, ‘09 - ’13 BS, UConn, ‘06 - ‘09

Dr. Oleg Shvartsur

ADA Delegates Dr. Ted Baer Candidate Statement Thank you to all for the valuable time and work you dedicate to our wonderful profession. At this time, I am asking for your vote as ADA delegate.

For the last six years, it has been my sincere privilege to work for you, to the best of my ability, as a WSDA Board member. During that time, I participated four times at the ADA House of Delegates as an alternate delegate or delegate. Valuable relationships and connections have been forged during this time. I have also come to an understanding of how this body works and functions. This exposure to the ADA House is crucial to enable one to hit the ground running. For better or worse, the ADA House takes a couple of times through for a delegate to be effective, and much of the work takes place throughout the year.

Once at the House, an effective delegate must be willing to step up to the microphone in front of a large body, clearly understand Robert’s Rules of Order, and boldly state the position of our 11th District.

I am proud to be a member of the 11th District.

We have a reputation for being progressive and speaking our minds. I would welcome the opportunity to continue that tradition, and ask for your vote as ADA Delegate.

Current Positions Board member, WSDA Board of Directors, 6 years Alternate Delegate, ADA House of Delegates, 4 years Chair, Executive Compensation Committee, 1 year Board Member, Pierce County Dental Foundation, 1 year Former Positions President, PCDS Board of Directors, 1 year

Dr. Mary Krempasky Smith

Treasurer, PCDS Board of Directors, 1 year Board member, PRECEDENT (Research), 1 year Board member, Pierce County Dental Foundation Professional Affiliations ADA WSDA PCDS WADG PCDF Education BS, Washington State University, ‘79 DDS, Loyola University of Chicago, ‘86 Other Fellowship, AGD, ‘97 Mastership, AGD, ‘08 Member, Pierre Fauchard Society Member, International College of Dentists

Dr. Marissa Bender Candidate Statement If there is anything the past three years of serving on the WSDA Board has taught me, it is this: It takes time, commitment, and great effort to learn the ropes, be effective, and productive. My time on the Board has been spent working within the organizational structure, listening to and learning from the experts, and putting these lessons to good use.

I have strived to be a contributing member of the team in order for us to accomplish our tasks, realize our goals, meet the challenges we constantly have to face from all directions, and keep us moving forward. We have a great group of leaders, and I am proud to be working with each and every one of them. WSDA has come a long way, but we cannot rest on our laurels. We have to keep pace with the changing times, and be proactive. I bring experience and motivation to the table. With your continued support, I would like to keep serving, so

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Dr Gregory Ogata.

that our organization remains an important advocate for our profession, our patients, and our members.

Dentistry is at a crossroads. Like medicine, I see private practice dentistry threatened by PPOs and corporate practice. We have all experienced greater challenges in providing quality care that includes taking time to talk to our patients, consult with our peers, and follow-through. We cannot do that if we are constantly forced to see more patients as we struggle to cover our overhead.

My message to legislators and other stakeholders regarding a dental midlevel provider is that a dental midlevel is nothing like a medical midlevel (nurse practitioner or physician’s assistant). I ask legislators to consider the interaction they have at their physician’s office: talking, referring, writing prescriptions, ordering tests. Then I ask them to consider the interaction they have at their dentist’s office: injections, removal of tooth structure or teeth. A dental midlevel would provide irreversible surgical procedures with minimal training.

The most vulnerable people in our communities deserve a fully trained dentist, and often present with complex cases that are a challenge even for experienced dentists. I am proud of Washington state dentists for working so hard to expand dental residencies, and for adopting a Take 5 Program.

For our future, I am researching ways to eliminate PPOs, compete in a corporate world, and protect quality care for everyone.

WSDA ADA

Current Positions Executive Council, SKCDS, .5 (took over position) Alternate Delegate, ADA House, 1 year SKCDS Delegate, WSDA House, 2 years Board Member, South King Multicare Foundation, 1 year Committee member, Blue Ribbon Committee for a Healthy Auburn, 2 months

Former Positions American Association of Dental Boards, President Washington State Dental Quality Assurance Commission, Chair and Board member, 6 years Yakima Valley Dental Society, President ADA Commission on Dental Accreditation, Site Visitor National Licensure Consultant, 7 years Western Regional Examining Board, President

Current Positions WSDA Board Member, 3 years WAGD Treasurer, 1 year Edmonds Center for the Arts Board Member, 1 year St. Pius X Catholic Church Head Lector, 12 years Cagayan Valley Association of Washington Executive Committee Member, 4 years Former Positions SCDS Executive Committee member and President, 7 years WSDA Committee on Budget and Finance Member and Chair, 4 years Cagayan Valley Association of Washington President, 4 years Professional Affiliations WSDA SCDS WAGD International College of Dentists Pierre Fauchard Academy Education DMD, University of Pennsylvania, School of Dental Medicine, ‘01 MBA, City University of Seattle, ‘96 DMD, University of the East, Manila, Philippines

Dr. Amy Cook Candidate Statement As an alternate delegate to the ADA in 2016, I learned about how our profession evaluates and betters itself, how it plans for the future of our profession, and how it interacts with our communities and government at large.

Professional Affiliations SKCDS

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Dr. Mark Walker

Education DDS, UWSoD, ‘06 BA, UW, ‘02

Dr. Bruce Kinney Candidate Statement Experience is the ultimate teacher. My involvement in organized dentistry for more than 30 years has allowed me to learn much about our profession. I have used that knowledge as your representative to the ADA. I ask for your vote to re-elect me to the position of ADA delegate. There is a learning curve as a new Delegate to the ADA, and I believe that re-election to another term as your Delegate will allow me to utilize my experience to be an even more effective advocate and representative for the interests of WSDA members.

Current Positions ADA House of Delegates, Delegate, 2 years Washington Oral Health Foundation, Board of Directors, 2 years ADA Commission on Dental Accreditation, Commissioner, 2 years WSDA House of Delegates, Delegate, 20+ years Western Regional Examining Board, Chief Examiner/examiner, 20+ years

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candidate profiles

Dr. Linda Edgar

candidate profiles

Professional Affiliations ADA/WSDA/Yakima Dental Society American College of Dentists International College of Dentists Pierre Fauchard Academy Education BS, Washington State University, ’76 DDS, UWSoD, ’80 UW Hospital Dental Residency, ’81 Other Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences Board of Directors Yakima Prosthodontic Society, Member/ Past President, 30+ years Yakima Downtown Rotary, Member, 25 years Commission of Kentucky Colonels, Member Bolender Study Club, Member, 3 years

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Dr. Ron Marsh Candidate Statement It is an honor to be considered as a candidate for ADA delegate for the WSDA. This past year, I have had the opportunity to present on key issues at the ADA in Chicago. Along with the legislation my team has sent to the ADA House of Delegates, my desire to serve the profession of dentistry is stronger than ever.

My extensive experience within our profession at the state level has given me a strong background in the process of implementing real changes. As we move forward, I plan to ensure the continued success of dental practitioners. We must provide the best in clinical care for our patients. This alone will not guarantee success, and we must be mindful with government, insurance, and corporate issues weighing heavily on our practices.

We stand on the shoulders of giants, and those honored dental practitioners who preceded us truly have earned our sincere gratitude. We now enter exciting and challenging times for the dental profession, and I am committed to protecting and safeguarding our profession. I will work hard to keep our profession honored and respected. I can only promise you that I will lead, just as I led our soldiers in foreign countries not so long ago.

Current Positions UWSoD Adjunct Instructor, 1 year WSDA Committee on Budget and Finance, 1 year Trios Hospital Staff Surgeon, 24 years BFCDS Delegate, 15 years AADD, President, 2 years Former Positions WSDA Committee on Government Affairs, 1 year BFCDS President, 1 year Columbia Basin College, Dental Hygiene Professor, 12 years Cleft Palate Team Yakima, Team Surgeon and Consultant, 20 CBOMS, Senior Partner/Surgeon, 23 years Professional Affiliations American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons-Board Certified

American Dental Society of Anesthesiology, Board Certified American Cleft Lip and Palate Association ADA, WSDA International Science Fair, Finalist and Judge

Education Bachelor’s UW, ‘07 DDS, UWSoD, ‘11

Education DDS, Loyola University School of Dentistry, ‘88 OMS, University of Kentucky Oral Surgery, ‘92 BS, WSU, ‘79 AVC, United States Army Advanced Course, ‘83

Candidate Statement I am interested in serving as an ADA delegate on behalf of WSDA so that I can have first-hand experience with the issues facing dentistry today.

I feel a strong sense of duty to help promote and maintain our great profession of dentistry. I would like to do everything in my power to extend access to care and improve our local, state, and national dental offerings. Simultaneously, it is important to balance this sentiment with good business practices and practice autonomy. While working as the District 1 Trustee for ASDA, I learned how there are many issues on a national level that also affect the state and local levels. As a solo practitioner, it is sometimes easy to feel disconnected from the national stage. That is why I think it is important to get involved at every level possible to help bridge the gaps inherent in the dental trifecta. Currently, I am serving on the Executive Committee of my local Snohomish County Dental Society, and I have been elected to a three-year position as a WSDA delegate. I am also applying to be on the Government Affairs committee for the WSDA. Ideally, I would like to maintain all of these positions so that I can have a voice on all three levels of the dental community, and be able to share my experiences with my constituents locally. I look forward to helping in any way that I can, and thank you for your consideration to be an ADA delegate.

Other WSDA Reference Committee, 2 years DQAC, 2 years PNAHA Hockey, Assistant/Head Coach, Level 4, 20 years US Army, Combat Arms Officer-Armor, 20 years Boy Scouts of America, Assistant Scoutmaster, 14 years

Dr. Oleg Shvartsur Candidate Statement When I first ran for the position of delegate to the ADA three years ago, I wanted to be involved early on in my career, so I could learn how to make a difference. I did just that, and was able to jump right in. My first year under the guidance of some great people, I started to figure out how the ADA operates. Being one of the youngest Delegates did not stop me from speaking up for what I felt were the right things for our profession and the interests of Washington dentists. My second year, I spoke on the House floor numerous times, was appointed to the ADA Committee on Membership, and was asked to speak to other districts.

Being a new dentist, business owner, affiliate faculty at UWSoD, volunteer dental provider, and involved in organized dentistry since the start of dental school, I feel I represent a broad spectrum of our Washington member dentists. Times are changing, and we must keep up with the needs of our members and the public. I would appreciate your vote so I can continue to learn and get more involved to protect and preserve our profession, and the people who trust their care to us.

“By changing nothing, nothing changes.” –Tony Robbins Current Positions ADA, Delegate, 3 years UWSoD Dental Alumni, Chair of New Dentist Committee, 3 years UWSoD Oral Medicine, Affiliate Faculty, 6 years WSDA New Dentist Think Tank, 4 years SKCDS, Communication Committee, 3 years Former Positions UWSoD, Class President, 4 years ADA, Committee on Membership, 1 year

Dr. Andrew Sholudko

Current Positions ADA Member, ‘13 - present WSDA Member, Delegate, ‘14 -present SCDS Executive Committee Member, ‘14 - present AGD Member, ‘13 - present WAGD Member, ‘14 - present Former Positions ASDA District 1 Trustee, National Delegate, Local Leader, ‘09 - ‘13 CSDA Member, Washington Leadership Conference Attendee, ‘13 - ‘14 Professional Affiliations ADA WSDA SCDS AGD WAGD Education DMD, UConn School of Dental Medicine, ‘09 - ’13 BS, UConn, ‘06 - ‘09

Professional Affiliations Pierre Fauchard Honorary Dental Academy ADA (WSDA/SKCDS) AGD AACD UW Dental Alumni

3 4 · th e wsda ne w s · issue 8, august · 2017 · www.wsda.org

Current Positions UWSoD Clinical Director, RIDE Program, 3 years WSDA Task Force on Future of PNDC, 1 year ADA consultant, speaker, 25 years NEWTECH Skill Center Advisory Board, Dental Careers, 20 years UW School of Medicine, WAMI Consultant, Dentistry for the Physician in rural and underserved areas, 1 year Former Positions ADA Eleventh District Trustee, 4 years WSDA President, 1 year WAGD President, 1 year ADA Council on Dental Benefit Programs, Vice Chair, ‘05 - ‘06, 4 years WSDA Executive Council (now called Board of Directors), 3 years Professional Affiliations International College of Dentists, Fellow, Deputy Regent American College of Dentists, Fellow Pierre Fauchard, Fellow Academy for Sports Dentistry, Team Dentist Certification

Other Spokane Chiefs Hockey Team, Dentist, 35 years Spokane Youth Hockey Association, Team Manager, 5 years Lilac City Figure Skating Association, Secretary, 4 years

11th District Trustee Dr. Linda Edgar Candidate Statement Having served dentistry for over 20 years, I am prepared to represent you as your District XI Trustee. Your Trustee is in charge of the ADA Caucus Delegates, develops new leaders, and facilitates converting our conversations and concerns to actions at the ADA Board level.

I have served as a National Trustee, National President, and National Secretary of an organization of 40,000 members for 10 years (2005-2015).

As a current WSDA Board member, ADA Council on Dental Practice member and a member of the WSDA Governance Committee, I am current on issues and recognize the challenges we face, and will help work with others to develop positive solutions.

I have the skills, current knowledge, experience, passion, and time to help work with you to make a difference for dentistry at the national level. I have also served with several of the current ADA Trustees.

We have issues (midlevel provider, student debt, DSO and insurance issues, access, fiscal responsibility, etc.) that need to be solved. I am a person who believes in positive solutions, and have a record of coming up with positive ideas like increasing loan repayment and residency programs, ER diversion, and efficiencies that save money. I am very frugal and will be sure to tighten our belts and stand against programs that are a waste of your money.

It would be an incredible honor to serve our District XI as your Trustee. I will listen and act on your needs and ideas, and would really appreciate your vote.

Current Positions ADA Delegate ‘17 - ‘20 WSDA Board Member, Governance and Strategic Planning, ‘16 - present ADA National Council on Dental Practice, ‘16 - present Academy of General Dentistry Foundation President-Elect, President, ‘15 - present AGD State PACE /CE Sponsor Approval Coordinator ‘04 - present Former Positions AGD National President ‘13 - ‘14 ADA Delegate, ‘05- ‘16, Alternate Delegate ‘99 - ‘04

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WSDA Committee on PNDC Chair, ‘04 - ‘05 SKCDS President ‘10 - ‘11 WSDA Delegate ‘04 - ‘18 Professional Affiliations Academy of General Dentistry International College of Dentists American College of Dentists Pierre Fauchard Academy Academy of Dentistry International Education DDS, UWSoD, ‘92 MEd, University of Washington ‘76 BS Zoology, University of Washington ‘73 Other AGD National Vice President, President-Elect, Immediate Past President, ‘11 - ‘15 AGD National Secretary, ‘07 - ‘11 AGD Professional Relations Committee to ADA Meeting ‘00 - ‘16, Chair ‘15 SKCDS Access Committee Member, ‘09 - ‘12 UW School of Dentistry, Chair $22 million campaign ‘00 - ‘08

Dr. Gregory Ogata Candidate Statement The ADA represents 160,000 members divided into 17 Trustee Districts. Our 11th District Trustee represents Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington. I promise to advocate for the entire 11th District and work on your behalf. I am not afraid to speak up.

There are common themes concerning our dental profession. That advocacy is vital to our future, especially now with healthcare and tax reform being discussed daily. Growing student loan debt is the defining issue that this generation of new doctors is challenged with. Workforce, different practice models, and third-party payer issues are also prominent nationwide.

Dentistry is the best profession in the world. I have always believed that among dentists, there exists a feeling of community, even a sense of family. To help another peer when needed is priceless.

I dream of a safety net of dentists helping dentists.

As a disabled stroke survivor, I feel passionately about creating a network of fellow dentists who can help each other when faced with adversity, such as alcohol, drugs, strokes, cancer, and depression.

The bottom line is out here in the Pacific Northwest, we tend to be innovative and are not afraid of change.... or leading the way. Naturally, disagreements over differing viewpoints will occur, requiring patience and persuasion, and sometimes a strong voice, and I want to do it because I believe our profession is worth it, and the ADA truly is “our voice” in our nation.

Current Positions ADPAC, 11th District, 2 years WSDA, Delegate to ADA, 8 years SKCD, Delegate to WSDA, 11 years

continued on page 36

candidate profiles

Candidate Statement For over 30 years, I have been in private practice in Spokane. In that time, our profession has navigated through technical advancements, regulation challenges, and practice management changes.

I have been honored to serve you in positions of leadership over these years.

A few years ago, I reduced my hours in private practice and accepted a part-time faculty position with the University of Washington. Currently, I serve as the eastern Washington clinical director for the Regional Initiatives in Dental Education (RIDE), a Gies award-winning program for innovations in education.

This position gives me the opportunity to work closely with dental students, faculty, and federally qualified dental clinics (FQHC) throughout eastern Washington. I supervise fourth-year students, as they complete their clinical requirements in the FCHCs. Additionally, after my years on the ADA Board, I realized that while our dental students graduate clinically proficient, they are unprepared for the business side of dentistry. Having completed my MBA in 2013, I use my skills to educate new dentists and students on best business practices.

This blend of private practice, teaching, and a degree in business puts me in a unique position to evaluate the initiatives facing the ADA for our members and future members from many perspectives. My ability to communicate these topics will serve to educate our members on the complicated issues facing our profession.

I thank you for your past support, and sincerely ask for your vote as I seek the opportunity to represent you at the ADA House of Delegates.

Education BS, University of Minnesota, ‘80 DDS, University of Minnesota, 82 MBA, Gonzaga Univeristy, ‘13

hod news

Dr. Mary Krempasky Smith

candidate profiles hod news

AAO, ADA Advisory Committee, 8 years American Association of Disabled Dentists, Vice President, 2 years Former Positions WSDA, President, ‘14 - ‘15 SKCD, President, ‘07 - ‘08 AAO Chairman, AAO Government Affairs, ‘14 - ‘16 WSDA, Board of Directors, ‘05 - ‘12 AAO, AAOPAC, ‘14 - ‘16 Professional Affiliations American College of Dentists International College of Dentists Pierre Fauchard Academy American Association of Orthodontists Diplomat, American Board of Orthodontics Education BA, Whitman College, Political Science, ‘85 DDS, UWSoD, ‘92 MS, St. Louis University, School of Orthodontics, ‘97 Other Blaine Memorial Methodist Church member, 54 years Backstage Dance Boosters Club, member/spouse, 4 years Issaquah School District PTA, member, 8 years Puget Sound Orthodontists Study Club, member 17 years

Dr. Mark Walker Candidate Statement I am interested in serving you as your ADA 11th District Trustee because I want to have an active role in shaping the future of our profession. The WSDA is an important organization to the dentists of this state and our country because of the success and influence it has had in working with regulatory and legislative bodies, as well as other diverse groups that try to impact the way dentistry is practiced. The strength of an organization depends on the involvement of its members, and the intelligence and vision of its leaders.

I have served organized dentistry in many ways over the years, as a committee member, council member, and board member, and you have trusted me with some leadership positions where one can really make a difference. I want to thank you for those opportunities and especially the most recent in 2015, when you elected me to be an ADA Delegate representing Washington state. It has allowed me to get involved with issues that are really important to our profession, and rekindle relationships that I have developed over the years with dentists across the country. The ADA is a large and diverse group of people with many regional differences in practice style and vision, but it is the only vehicle we have to change and improve our profession at the national level. I would appreciate your vote and, if elected, I will do my best to represent you and the best interests of our great profession.

Current Positions WSDA, ADA Delegate, ‘15 - present UWSoD Dean’s Club Board Member, ‘12 - present Medical Relief International, Volunteer Dentist, ‘08-present Medical Teams International, Volunteer Dentist, ‘07 - present Former Positions SKCDS, President, ‘94 - ‘95 SKCDS Foundation, President, ‘95- ‘96 WSDA President, ‘03 - ‘04 WOHF President, ‘00 - ‘02 ADA Council on Governmental Affairs, Chair, ‘09 - ‘10 Professional Affiliations UWSoD Alumni Association, ‘82 - present Pierre Fauchard Academy, ‘99 - present International College of Dentists, ‘00 - present Academy of General Dentistry, ‘00 - present American College of Dentists, ‘08 - present Education BA Chemistry, UW, ‘77 DDS, UWSoD, ‘81 Other Kent Rotary Board of Directors, ‘90 - ‘92 AAU, Basketball Coach High School, ‘98 - ‘02 Grace Lutheran Church, Member, ‘06 - present

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3 6 · th e wsda ne w s · issue 8, august · 2017 · www.wsda.org

Thursday, September 14, 2017

9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Skamania Lodge Golf Course

Hospitality Suite · Sponsored by WDIA

Committee on Budget and Finance

2 p.m. - 11 p.m.

Adams

4 – 5 p.m.

Summit 6

Dinner Buffet Sponsored by Constantine Builders

5 – 6:30 p.m.

Front lawn

New Delegate Orientation (New delegates encouraged, open to all)

6:30 p.m.

Cascade Locks Ballroom

Work Session

7 p.m.

Cascade Locks Ballroom

Fun Run

6:30 a.m.

Front Lobby

Breakast

7:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Hood

Delegate Registration (All delegates must register)

8:30 a.m.

Cascade Foyer

First Business Session

9:00 a.m.

Cascade Locks Ballroom

Friday, September 15, 2017

Luncheon (Sponsored by WDIA & NORDIC) 12 p.m.

Garden Patio

Work Session & Hearings

1:30 p.m.

Cascade Locks Ballroom

Hospitality Suite · Sponsored by WDIA

2 p.m. - 11 p.m.

Adams

Citizen of the Year Award Reception

5:30 p.m.

Garden Patio

Citizen of the Year Award Dinner

6:30 p.m.

Stevenson AB Ballroom

Saturday, September 16, 2017 Breakast

6:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. Hood

Delegate Registration (All delegates must register)

7:30 a.m.

Cascade Foyer

Second Business Session

8 a.m. – Completion

Cascade Locks Ballroom

HOD FUTURE DATES 2018 · September 20-22 (date change) · Murano Hotel, Tacoma, WA 2019 · September 26-28 · Davenport Hotel, Spokane, WA

th e wsda ne w s · issue 8, august · 2017 · www.wsda.org · 37

resolutions

Golf Tournament (Registration Required) Sponsored by Constantine Builders

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The Power of Planning Can you imagine the leverage you can obtain by having coordinated plans for your practice; taxes; your future retirement income and your practice transition?

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Got an hour? Contact Jennifer Paine for a complimentary one 3 8 · th wsda ne216-1612 w s · issue 8, · 2017 · www.wsda.org hour consultation ate (425) oraugust jennifer@cpa4dds.com

Tricks, tips and strategies Investing in your practice equipment and technology.

vantage of what is known as an indirect or “back-door” Roth IRA contribution. On day one, you make a $5,500 ($6,500, if age 50 or better) contribution as a nondeductible contribution to a traditional IRA. On day two, you convert that contribution to a Roth IRA tax free. Note that this applies on an individual basis. Consequently, there may be circumstances where this may not work for one spouse, but may work for the other.

Pick and Roll

If you have taxable IRAs, but also operate a qualified plan through your office, such as a 401(k), profit-sharing or pension plan (does not work with SEPs or SIMPLEs), and your plan allows for the contribution of rollovers, you can roll your taxable IRAs to the plan. Then you are set to complete an indirect Roth contribution each year.

Tax-loss harvesting

The government provides you with an outstanding opportunity to invest in your practice with significant (tax) subsidies. Dentists can generally expense up to $500,000 in qualifying fixed-asset purchases per year. Beyond this, mixing the expensing election with first-year bonus depreciation, as well as regular front-loaded tax depreciation, gives you the ability to target tax deductions to only your highest bracket (or two), maximizing the long-term tax savings.

This should be done throughout the year, anytime there is a loss position in a taxable account large enough to justify the activity. At a minimum, harvested losses will provide you a $3,000 per year deduction against your other income – saving several hundred dollars or more. Accumulating harvested losses through down markets comes in handy when you eventually take a gain.

For example, when you sell your practice or in retirement, as you eventually tap into your appreciated portfolio.

Cost segregation

Conclusion

The default write-off period for leasehold improvements is either 39 or 15 years (if qualified). Either way, this is a lengthy period of time to obtain your deductions. Cost segregation can recategorize, in most cases, a substantial percentage of your contractor’s bill related to remodel or build-out to fast write-off categories, as well as qualify costs for expensing and/or bonus depreciation. Cost segregation can also be applied retroactively to a build-out or remodel from the past, allowing you to deduct the “catch-up” depreciation on this year’s tax return.

In-office manufacturing

Do you manufacture in your practice? If you do, you can qualify for the 9 percent Domestic Production Activity Deduction (DPAD).

This clearly applies to CAD/CAM activities, such as CEREC and E4D, as well as making retainers and other appliances, and may well apply to other activities in the dental world, including bonding braces.

Planning, implementing, monitoring, and adjusting are very powerful tools when combined. The process of monitoring on a regular basis can also help you take best advantage of the multitude of tricks, tips, and strategies. The items mentioned above, maximizing your after-tax portfolio returns, and optimizing your Social Security benefit options all play a part in your success, reaching your goals, and improving your quality of life.

Sam Martin is director of Wealth Management Services and Advanced Tax Planning for the Dental Group, LLC / Martin Boyle PLLC / Dental Wealth Advisors, LLC / DG Transitions LLC, a CPA, practice advisory, practice transitions, financial planning, and wealth management services group exclusively serving dentists and their practices. Martin is a Certified Public Accountant and a Certified Financial Planner with a master’s degree in Federal Income Taxation. Located in Kirkland, Wash., he can be reached at (425) 216-1612 or Sam@cpa4dds.com.

Back-door Roth IRA

For those who earn more than $196,000 (joint) or $133,000 (single), you do not qualify to make a Roth IRA contribution. However, there is no income limitation on converting taxable IRAs to Roth IRAs. If you have no other taxable IRAs, you can take ad-

th e wsda ne w s · issue 8, august · 2017 · www.wsda.org · 39

the dental group, llc

By Sam Martin, MBA (tax), CFP®, CPA We believe that the most powerful tool you have available to positively impact your long-term financial and personal success is planning. We have seen clients make much sounder financial decisions and become better savers as a result of putting their goals and concerns in writing, and developing a plan around those to achieve goals and address concerns.

Beyond planning and implementation, the other requirement for success is a methodology for monitoring and adjusting as life progresses. This keeps the planning and the goals front and center.

It also lends itself to taking advantage of various tricks, tips, and strategies along the way. Here are a just a few that frequently come up in our office.

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4 0 · th e wsda ne w s · issue 8, august · 2017 · www.wsda.org 2 See sofi.com/disclaimer1#6 3 To check the rates and terms you qualify for, SoFi conducts a soft credit pull that will not affect your credit score. However, if you choose a product and continue your application, we will request your full credit report from one or more consumer reporting agencies, which is considered a hard credit pull and may affect your credit.

OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE

OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE

DENTIST NEEDED — General dentist wanted to join our experienced compassionate dental team 2-3 days a week in Zillah, WA. Serving diverse people of all ages with quality, comprehensive, gentle dental care. Contact Andrea: (509) 8954066 drstafforddental@gmail.com.

DENTIST — Pedodontist, FT Associate, Eagle River, Alaska. Permanent position, 4-5 day work week, immediately available for an Alaska Licensed pediatric dentist. Discovery Dental Kids is looking for a compassionate, pediatric dentist who will deliver excellent care to children of all ages from infants to teens. We provide a range of preventive and restorative services, oral sedation and GA with an onsite anesthesiologist. All in a beautifully custom designed practice located 15 miles from Anchorage and surrounded by mountain views and Eagle River. Competitive compensation.

Contact Leanne 907-351-3459 for more details.

PART TIME ENDODONTIST — Looking for a part-time Endodontist to work a day or two day a month. Nice modern office located in Bothell Area.

Please respond with resume to bellevuedentists@ gmail.com.

ASSOCIATE PERIODONTIST, SOUTH SOUND — Established periodontal and implant practice seeks associate periodontist 2 - 4 days per week.

Eventual buy-in is feasible but not an employment requirement. Beautiful water-front newly built office with delightful experienced staff. Owner periodontist has 25 years of experience with all surgical techniques and available for on-going mentoring. Please respond to helmstetter.barbara@gmail.com or by calling 503-799-4743.

HYGIENIST WANTED — Established downtown Seattle, two-dentist practice. Work with long term, dedicated staff. We are a patient centered office with patient needs placed first looking for someone with the same philosophy. Experience preferred but everyone will be considered. Two to three days per week. Retirement benefits, end of year bonus, free dental & others open to negotiation. Access to in house workout facility, close to transportation hubs, retail (i.e. Nordstrom, Pacific Place, etc.). Reply to 206-623-6263, ask for Paula or Vickie or email langohrdds@gmail.com. We look forward to hearing from you.

DENTIST - General FT Assoc. Eagle River, AK. Fantastic career opportunity! Permanent position 4 to 5 days per week immediately available for an Alaska licensed general dentist. Legacy Dental Arts is looking for a compassionate, general dentist who will deliver excellent care to mainly our adult patients. Our office is staffed by a group of dedicated team members committed to proving a wide range of preventive, restorative services, cosmetic and implant services with Sedation options available, all in a relaxing atmosphere providing the best experience for each and every patient.

Located 15 miles from Anchorage, our beautiful practice is designed specifically with adults in mind, is surrounded by scenic mountain views and breathtaking Eagle River. Competitive compensation and benefits. Contact Leanne 907-3513459 for more details.

th e wsda ne w s · issue 8, august · 2017 · www.wsda.org · 41

ASSOCIATE WANTED — Family-owned, fee-forservice office in Bend, Oregon seeking a full-time (4-day week) associate. Office is modern and alldigital. Treat your patients like family. Competitive pay, benefits, and equity (partial ownership) opportunities available. Want to be part of something special? Tell us a little more about yourself. info@purecaredental.com.

DENTIST NEEDED — Family Health Center, Longview WA is looking for a DDS or DMD with at least 1 yr experience. NonProfit Community Health Center. WA State DEA license. Apply to jobs@cfamhc.org.

ASSOCIATE NEEDED — Established Seattle Dental office looking for an Associate Dentist to work 3-4 days a week. Clinical staff consists of two Dental Assistants and a Licensed Denturist. Please email your Resume to HealthySmilesDDC@comcast. net if interested. New graduates welcome to apply.

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OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE

OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE

GENERAL DENTIST — A rare opportunity in beautiful Bellingham Washington for a general dentist. Piper Family Dentistry is seeking a 2-3 day per week associate to join our successful, thriving dental practice. The ideal candidate has a desire to work in team environment, is highly skilled, and is dedicated to providing unmatched patient care. Bellingham Washington is ideal for enjoying outdoor activities of every kind, just 90 minutes away from the traffic and congestion of Seattle.

Ski in Mt. Baker’s record setting snowfall; paddle, wakeboard or fish in magnificent Lake Whatcom; or bike/hike on endless interurban trails or world class Galbraith Mountain. Bellingham also enjoys excellent public schools and Western Washington University making this beautiful waterfront college town an ideal place for starting a career and/ or raising a family. Julie@trgcoaching.com.

ASSOCIATE NEEDED — Well-established dental office on the South hill of Spokane looking for an associate for buy-in transition. Please send resumes or inquiries to brandy@dentalcareofspokane.com.

SPOKANE — Seeking full-time general dentist, able to work a varied shift schedule including weekends; must be able to do all aspects of general dentistry including molar endodontics and 3rd molar/surgical extractions; able to adapt to new systems and paradigms; great opportunity to grow and learn; 1-5 years experience preferable. Unlimited income potential! Send resume to Dr. Bradley J. Harken; bradharken@hotmail.com.

GENERAL DENTIST — This is a fantastic opportunity in beautiful Eastern Washington for a general dentist. We are seeking a part-time 1-2 days a week, flexible schedule associate to be apart of our growing family dental practice in north Spokane Washington. Dr. Robb Heinrich and the team are seeking an associate that is experienced in all aspects of general dentistry, enjoys implant and minor oral surgery types of procedures as well, feels comfortable working independently. Eastern Washington is ideal for enjoying outdoor activities from snow skiing, water skiing, hiking, and fishing. Please email your CV to Julie@trgcoaching.com.

DENTIST NEEDED — Seeking skilled dental associate with 2+ years experience. 3-4 days/week for a general practice. Offices in Lynnwood / North Seattle. Must be able to work on Saturdays. Please send resumes to dentaladsml@gmail.com.

LOOKING FOR ENDODONTIST — Central Kirkland/Seattle. Looking for an endodontist to work 1-3 days per week at our busy, multi-doctor practice in central Kirkland. Please send resume to info@KirklandTeeth.com.

GENERAL DENTIST ASSOCIATE POSITION — Option to buy. Existing DDS with is looking to be retired within the next year or sooner. This private practice (30+ year patient base) is open Mon-Thurs (Mon-Wed 8-5, and Thurs 9-3). Prefers someone with at least five years of experience. Part time to start, (3 days) building into full time. Substantial patient base! Salary DOQ. Email: lori.leonarddds@outlook.com.

PART- TIME DENTIST — Needed 2-3 days per week in Spokane Valley general practice. We value someone with excellent clinical and interpersonal skills to join North Pines Dental Care. Please email: rosemaryosborn@comcast.net.

DENTISTS NEEDED — Dental Professionals is recruiting dentists for temporary and permanent positions throughout western Washington – Vancouver to Bellingham and the Olympic Peninsula.

No fee to you and you pick the days and geographic locations that you are available to work. This is a great opportunity to earn supplemental income or find a permanent position. If interested please call Bob at (206) 767-4851.

GENERAL DENTIST NEEDED — We are interviewing for a general dentist position in our growing practice. The dentist should have at least five years of experience and should feel comfortable doing molar root canals and surgical extractions. We have clinics in South Seattle and Kent.

We need a dentist that can work 2 to 4 days in a week. Please send us your Resume to jobs@buriendentalcare.com or call 425-647-4318.

CURRENT LISTINGS NORTH WHATCOM COUNTY—General dental

practice PRACTICE GROUP

GRAYS HARBOR—Fee for service general

dental practice PIERCE COUNTY—Pediatric dental practice

THINKING ABOUT SELLING YOUR PRACTICE? Try our complimentary Practice Snapshot Valuation and FREE consultation.

Call 877-866-6053 to schedule.

NORTH DOWNTOWN SEATTLE—Dental practice DOWNTOWN SEATTLE—Dental practice located just east of the freeway SOUTH SOUND—Ortho practice in 6 chair

office in a stand-alone building FEDERAL WAY—General dental practice with

4 ops and room to grow DES MOINES—Dental practice with 4 ops and

room to grow SKAGIT COUNTY—General dental practice

annual collections over $250,000, 4 ops WESTERN SKAGIT COUNTY—General dental

practice located near the water UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON—General dental

practice LYNNWOOD—Boutique practice in medical

condo which is also for sale, 3 ops OLYMPIA—Annual collections over $1.1 million

with good cash flow to doctor, building also for sale U OF W—Built-out dental practice, no

FOR MORE LISTINGS OR HOW YOUR PRACTICE COULD BE LISTED IN OUR AD: 877.866.6053 | INFO@OMNI-PG.COM | OMNI-PG.COM

th e wsda ne w s · issue 8, august · 2017 · www.wsda.org · 43

patients being sold

classifieds issue 8, august 2017

OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE

DG Transitions LLC

DG Advisors

5808 Lake Washington Blvd NE Suite 101

Dental Wealth Advisors LLC

LLC

Kirkland, WA 98033

We’re your Transitions Specialist, CPA,& Wealth Advisor

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We bring all of our tools and expertise to bear to achieve your desired transition and through tax and other planning, leaving more of your hard earned value in your pocket.

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For dentists and specialists who believe that planning, implementation and monitoring are crucial to long-term financial success and quality of life.

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Comprehensive Financial Planning* Wealth Management Investment Management Retirement Plan—CFO Services

General Dental Practice Opportunities EASTSIDE - NORTH

3+ Ops > Collecting $516K

SOUTH KING COUNTY

10+ Ops > Collecting $2.25M

SOUTH SNOHOMISH COUNTY

3 Ops > Collecting $625K

(MERGER OPPORTUNITY)

|

*Personal financial planning, Investment & Wealth Management Services provided by Dental Wealth Advisors, LLC a Registered Investment Advisory

Pending Transitions SW WASHINGTON

General Practice > Collecting --

NORTH CENTRAL WASHINGTON

Pediatric > Collecting --

SNOHOMISH COUNTY [CLOSED]

General Practice > Collecting $900K

SOUTH OF SEATTLE/BURIEN [CLOSED]

General Practice > Collecting $389K

RENTON [CLOSED]

General Practice > Collecting $801K

WESTERN WA

Prosthodontic > Collecting $1.385M

FEDERAL WAY [CLOSED]

General Practice > Collecting $715K

Coming Soon Many more coming soon...watch for details!

sam@cpa4dds.com

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mmb@cpa4dds.com

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nate@wealth4dds.com

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karrie@cpa4dds.com

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Jennifer@cpa4dds.com

4 4 · th e wsda ne w s · issue 8, august · 2017 · www.wsda.org

Call 425-216-1612 or jennifer@cpa4dds.com us today to see how we can help you!

DG Transitions LLC

The Dental Group

Comprehensive | Professional | Tax Efficient LLC A DENTAL GROUP COMPANY

OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE

OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE

MULTI-SPECIALTY GROUP PRACTICE OPPORTUNITIES — With more than 400,000 patients throughout our 50+ practice locations in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho, and a built-in specialty referral network to more than 30 specialists, Willamette Dental Group has been a leader in preventive and proactive dental care since 1970. What makes this multi-specialty group practice unique, and better, is a commitment to proactively facilitating the best possible health outcomes. We currently have openings in Oregon and Washington for General Dentists, Endodontists, Oral Surgeons, Pediatric Dentists, and Locum Tenens Dentists. As a member of the Willamette Dental Group team, we offer a competitive salary commensurate with experience. We are a performance based culture and offer a generous and comprehensive benefit package. Among the many amenities we offer are competitive guaranteed compensation, benefits, paid vacation, malpractice insurance, in-house CEs, and an in-house loan forgiveness program.

Please contact Kelly Musick at kmusick@willamettedental.com and visit www.willamettedental. com/careers to learn more!

PEDIATRIC DENTISTS — Outstanding Opportunities in North Central Washington Pediatric dentists needed for associateship. Wenatchee Valley Dental Village is a large private group practice and is seeking two or three pediatric dentists to join our busy and well-established 10-chair office. We provide comprehensive, quality-focused dental services to pediatrics and adolescents, including endodontics and in-office general anesthesia. Our experienced, bilingual staffing model consists of hygiene assisted restorative care for efficiency and stress management. The ideal candidate should be energetic, motivated and share a passion for treating children of all ages. Interpersonal and technical skills with strong work ethics and moral values are a requirement. Experienced current owners are willing to mentor. Excellent compensation with a bonus program, 401(k), vacation, holidays, continuing education allowance, medical and malpractice insurance. Loan Repayment Possible. Call Anne at (509) 886-2500 or email aknappert@wvdentalvillage.com.

ASSOCIATE OPPORTUNITY, YAKIMA — We have a great associate opportunity for a new graduate or a long term home for a seasoned dentist looking to be compensated well with less of the headaches and stress. Group practice composed of general dentists, orthodontists, and oral surgeons. For new grads it’s the perfect opportunity to learn your craft by working side by side with generalists and specialists while being paid very well. Base salary of $150,000 for new grads plus bonuses. Base salary of $175,000 plus bonuses for experienced dentists. Opportunities to earn much more with our full schedules! Both positions have the opportunity to earn well above $200,000. Full benefits package. State of the art clinics and equipment. Mix of children and adult dentistry. Mix of State and private insurance. Full time opportunity available. Moving expense reimbursement offered.

Please send inquiries to jbabka@applesmiles.com.

ASSOCIATE DENTIST — With buy in opportunity. Experienced GP needed for our Des Moines practice. Must be proficient in all phases of dentistry. Can discuss buy in opportunity upfront or later. This position is 3 days per week Monday through Wednesday. Please email me at baljinderbuttar1@gmail.com.

ORTHODONTIST NEEDED — We are looking for an orthodontist for 1 to 2 days a week in our Kent clinic. The orthodontist needs to bring his/her team and supplies. We get 10 new ortho patients per week. We provide excellent compensation based on collection. Please send us your resume to jobs@buriendentalcare.com or call 425-647-4318.

GENERAL DENTIST, SUNNYSIDE — Full time position. Work beside specialists. Offering a great schedule, great compensation and guarantee.

Great opportunity to expand skill set as you work or a perfect opportunity for an experienced dentist to utilize a wide range of skills. For more information, please contact Jolene Babka at jbabka@ applesmiles.com

Our Commitment is to YOUR success

Over 65 years of expertise, offering short and long-term individual detail practice management, as well as transitions and associateships.

Congratulations on our recent transitions: Dr. Thomas Kane to Dr. John Szerszen Mill Creek, WA

Dr. Michael Harris to Dr. Shane Sidhu

Western WA: Kitsap County Perio Practice

New

Reduced Price Kirkland Reduced Price SE King County Reduced Price Grays Harbor County Reduced Price Bellingham Updated North Seattle Re-Listed Bothell

Eastern WA:

Seattle, WA

Central WA General Practice

Tri-Cities Associateship

Edmonds, WA

Tacoma (Pediatric)

Yakima

San Juan Islands

Yakima

East King County

Pending Pending Burlington Pending

Lake Chelan

Longview

Richland (Dental Space Only - Lease)

Bellingham (Adult Restorative)

Re-Listed

Northgate

Alaska:

Burien

Homer

find us on

New Reduced Price Updated

Dr. Michael Hrankowski to Dr. Meisam Nejad

Moses Lake (Space Only)

Oregon:

Updated

NE Oregon Associate to Purchase Opportunity

knutzenmcvaygroup.com

(800) 953-7296

th e wsda ne w s · issue 8, august · 2017 · www.wsda.org · 45

Todd McVay

Dave Knutzen

classifieds issue 8, august 2017

OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE

clinical corner issue 8, august 2017

CLINICAL CORNER Left maxilla: mixed RL/RO swelling

Figure 1

Contributed by:

Dr. Mathew Epstein, Greenlake Facial Surgery, Seattle, WA

History of present illness

This is a 13-year-old female who was referred in 2015 for the management of a palatally impacted tooth #12. The tooth was exposed and orthodontically guided into the alveolar arch with the aid of a temporary anchorage device. In May 2017, the

patient returned with a swelling in the left posterior maxilla. The CBCT revealed a large well-defined mixed radiolucent and radiopaque mass in the left maxilla extending into the left maxillary sinus (Figure 1).

The mass was 2.8 x 2.2 x 2.2 cm in size.

There was no perforation of bone, but the roots of tooth #13 were displaced. On clinical evaluation, the left maxillary vestibule was asymmetrical. The patient reported she had noticed the change slowly occurring

over the past two years. The past medical history is significant for tonsil and adenoid removal and hypersensitivity to penicillin.

Test your knowledge!

Visit https://dental.washington.edu/oralpathology/case-of-the-month/ and see if your assessment of the case is correct.

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Background Brian Goff, CDT Foreground Alex Rugh, CDT

At O’Brien, we’ve built an unmatched team of professionals who strive to deliver the highest level of service, education, innovation, and reliability. If our customers are successful, then so are we. That's the guiding principle in how we operate our company. We support your practice with everything from case consultation to continuing education. No other dental lab is as committed to your success!

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4 6 · th e wsda ne w s · issue 8, august · 2017 · www.wsda.org

OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE

OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE

GENERAL DENTIST — Spokane’s Dental Providers is looking for a driven, dedicated, and skilled General Dentist to join our Maple Street Family Dentistry location in beautiful Eastern Washington. We have multiple privately held practices in the Spokane WA area that specialize in patient focused dentistry. Full schedule immediately in a family friendly environment. There are no management headaches with this well managed private practice. This practice has all the systems and pieces put together for an associate to have tremendous success. All aspects of dentistry here from same day crowns Cerac, restorative, cosmetics, endo, and implants and more. Future partnership and buy out opportunity here if we find the right fit for owner and associate. Generous Compensation Package depending on experience. Send Resume or Contact us! roxie@libertylakefamilydentistry. com. Visit our locations: www.libertylakefamilydentistry.com, www.latahcreekfamilydentisty. com, www.northpointefamilydentistry.com, www.maplestreetfamilydentistry.com.

ASSOCIATE OPPORTUNITY, SPOKANE VALLEY — We have a great associate opportunity for a new graduate or a long term home for a seasoned dentist looking to be compensated well with less of the headaches and stress. Group practice composed of general dentists, orthodontists, and oral surgeons.

For new grads it’s the perfect opportunity to learn your craft by working side by side with generalists and specialists while being paid very well.

Base salary of up to $150,000 plus 30% production bonus for new grads. Base salary of $175,000 plus 30% production bonus for experienced dentists. Opportunities to earn much more with our full schedules! Full benefits package. State of the art clinics and equipment. Mix of children and adult dentistry. Mix of State and private insurance.

Full time opportunity available in Spokane Valley.

Moving expense reimbursement offered. Position starts August 1, 2017. Please send inquiries to jbabka@applesmiles.com.

GENERAL DENTIST NEEDED — For busy Community Health Center in Yakima County. Dentist will see all ages, children and adults. Support staff include bilingual dental assistants, Registered Hygienists, and connection to a strong integrated team of medical and behavioral health, nutrition, optical, and essential needs providers. Clinic has integrated Electronic Health Records, and state of the art equipment. Looking for compassionate individual interested in serving low income individuals, including agricultural works and homeless. Dentist works four 10-hour days, competitive compensation package. YNHS is an eligible site for National Health Service Corps scholars, loan repayment, and Washington Health Loan Repayment. Contact rhonda.hauff@ynhs.org.

GENERAL DENTIST, SUNNYSIDE — Full time position. Work beside specialists. Offering a great schedule, great compensation and guarantee.

Great opportunity to expand skill set as you work or a perfect opportunity for an experienced dentist to utilize a wide range of skills. For more information, please contact Jolene Babka at jbabka@ applesmiles.com

FULL-TIME ASSOCIATE IN BELLEVUE — We are looking for full time associate in Bellevue to work 4+ days a week . We are a top office in our area. Beautiful modern office with state of the art technology. Fantastic patients and team. Fully digital. Must be highly skilled and experienced.

Ready to learn and be a part of the team. Outstanding earning potential. Please email resume to bellevuedentists@gmail.com.

DENTIST OPPORTUNITY IN WESTERN WASH. — Seeking experienced dentist for busy, well established, successful, fee for service, group dental practice. Full-time position available. Excellent immediate income opportunity ($180,000 to $375,000 + per year) depending on productive ability and hours worked. Secure, long-term position. You can concentrate on optimum patient treatment without practice management duties.

Modern well-equipped office with excellent staff, and lab services provided. If you are bright, energetic with a desire to be productive, very personable, and people oriented, and have great general and specialty clinical skills, Fax resume to Dr. Hanssen at (425) 484-2110.

Health is

preventing disease, not just treating it.

Now Hiring General Dentists – Oregon & Washington Locum Tenens Dentists – Oregon Endodontists – Oregon & Washington Oral Surgeons – Oregon & Washington Orthodontists – Washington

willamettedental.com/careers CDA | August 24 – 26 | Booth #454 Kelly Musick, Dentist Recruiter kmusick@willamettedental.com Tel: 503.952.2535 Kariana Peters, DMD, Managing Dentist

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classifieds issue 8, august 2017

OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE

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GENERAL DENTIST, TRI CITIES — Great associate opportunity for a new graduate or a long term home for a seasoned dentist looking to be compensated well with less of the headaches and stress.

Group practice composed of general dentists, orthodontists, and oral surgeons. For new grads it’s the perfect opportunity to learn your craft by working side by side with generalists and specialists while being paid very well. Base salary of $150,000 for new grads plus bonuses. Base salary of $175,000 plus bonuses for experienced dentists.

Full benefits package and moving allowance. State of the art clinics and equipment. Mix of children and adult dentistry. Mix of state and private insurance. Position available in coveted Pasco, Washington facility this Spring. Please send inquiries to jbabka@applesmiles.com.

GENERAL DENTIST REQUESTED, MAPLE VALLEY — Our multi-doctor, family practice is looking for an outgoing, professional doctor skilled in all aspects of dentistry to join our team. Our beautiful, modern office has been providing excellent dental care to our ever growing community for over 10 years. We offer a generous compensation package along with the opportunity to work with an established, efficient and personable team.

Please email your resume to wendyloconnell@yahoo.com or you may fax it to 425-413-8599.

GENERAL DENTIST, SPOKANE — We have a great associate opportunity for a new graduate or a long term home for a seasoned dentist looking to be compensated well with less of the headaches and stress. Group practice composed of general dentists, orthodontists, and oral surgeons. For new grads it’s the perfect opportunity to learn your craft by working side by side with generalists and specialists while being paid very well. Base salary of up to $150,000 for new grads plus bonuses. Base salary of $175,000 plus bonuses for experienced dentists. Opportunies to earn much more with our full schedules! Full benefits package and moving allowance. State of the art clinics and equipment. Mix of children and adult dentistry. Mix of State and private insurance. Full time and part time opportunities available. Moving expense reimbursement offered. Please send inquiries to jbabka@applesmiles.com.

FULL-TIME ASSOCIATE IN BELLEVUE — We are looking for full time associate in Bellevue to work 4+ days a week . We are a top office in our area. Beautiful modern office with state of the art technology. Fantastic patients and team. Fully digital. Must be highly skilled and experienced.

Ready to learn and be a part of the team. Outstanding earning potential. Please email resume to bellevuedentists@gmail.com.

OPPORTUNITIES WANTED OPPORTUNITY WANTED — 2015 Graduate of Rutgers University, School of Dental Medicine, seeks periodontics and dental implant surgery position in greater Seattle area.

View my CV here: http://drive.google.com/ f i l e /d / 0 Bz G C 8 0 f B f j s l a H Y 5 djN6 a DF n R m s / view?usp=sharing.

OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE

OFFICES FOR SALE OR LEASE

OPPORTUNITY WANTED — 2017 UWSoD graduate looking for a general dentist position in Lynnwood, Bothell, Kirkland, Bellevue, etc.

View my CV here: https://drive.google.com/file/ d/0B76Ju67ritu6dXg5ZzhVV1BRR1E/view.

NEAR UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON PRACTICE FOR SALE — Three operatories with annual collections of $350,000 on 3.5 days per week. Area of regentrification with new restaurants, active construction and growth. Contact frank@omni-pg.com.

OFFICES FOR SALE OR LEASE

MAPLE VALLEY DENTAL OFFICE FOR LEASE — Start-up or move your existing practice. Fully built out with 5 operatories, Plenty of parking in plaza.

Approximately 1,524 sq. ft. with favorable lease terms. Email Steve Kikikis steve@omni-pg.com.

FOR SALE — New practices for sale, located in Bellevue, Burien, Tukwila, Olympia, Tacoma. Also numerous pre-existing dental spaces for lease. Call today. New office development consultants for over 35 years. Annie Miller at REMAX (206) 715-1444.

PRACTICE FOR SALE: Disability forces sale of this family practice in NE King County. To meet the seller and visit the practice please call AFTCO 425-450-1010 ext 1.

GENERAL PRACTICE FOR SALE — EastsideNorth. Fantastic, long-standing community-based general practice. New state-of-the-art facility. Collecting $582K. Three fully-equipped operatories w/4th plumbed. Approx 2,000 sq/ft. Superb visibility. Currently referring out most specialty work. For more information please contact: Jennifer Paine at (425) 216-1612 or Jennifer@cpa4dds.com.

GENERAL PRACTICE FOR SALE — Whidbey Island. Well-producing practice in a premier, waterfront community of Whidbey Island. Five fullyequipped operatories with an additional consultation op. Collecting over $1M. Dentrix. Paperless. Digital x-ray. For more information contact: Jennifer Paine at (425) 216-1612 or Jennifer@cpa4dds.com.

GENERAL PRACTICE FOR SALE — Redmond.

Outstanding Eastside practice. Collecting $592K. 3-operatories w/4th plumbed. Approx 1,573 sq/ft.

Dentrix. Fully-digital. Current doctor is part-time only. For more information contact: Jennifer Paine at (425) 216-1612 or Jennifer@cpa4dds.com.

GENERAL PRACTICE FOR SALE — South King County. Large, profitable multi-disciplinary practice. Digital radiography. I-V Sedation. Separate digital pan/lateral ceph. CBCT. CEREC. Approximately 5,000 sq/feet. For more information contact: Jennifer Paine: (425) 216-1612 or Jennifer@cpa4dds. com GENERAL PRACTICE FOR SALE— South Snohomish County. Fantastic visibility within close proximity to aerospace giant. Collecting $625K. Three fully-equipped operatories. Lab. 1,000 sq/ft (approximate). For more information contact: Jennifer Paine at (425) 216-1612 or Jennifer@cpa4dds. com.

GENERAL PRACTICE FOR SALE/Merger Opportunity — Eastside. State-of-the-art office located in a prime medical-dental area of the Eastside. 3 fully-equipped operatories w/room for 1 additional.

1,685 sq/ft (approximate). Collecting 516K. Nitrous. Digital X-Rays. Soft-Tissue Laser. Intra-Oral Camera. For more information contact: Jennifer Paine at (425) 216-1612 or Jennifer@cpa4dds.com.

th e wsda ne w s · issue 8, august · 2017 · www.wsda.org · 49

GRAYS HARBOR FEE FOR SERVICE PRACTICE FOR SALE — General Dental practice for sale. Annual collections over $200,000, four operatories, lots of parking on busy street. Contact rod@omnipg.com.

EQUIPPED DENTAL OFFICE FOR SALE/LEASE — Fully equipped dental office for sale in Arlington.

Three operatories, dental chairs, and sterilization, equipment included in purchase. No Patients Included. Approx. 950 sq. ft plus storage room. Asking $180,000. Email Steve Kikikis steve@omni-pg.com.

WHATCOM COUNTY LIFESTYLE FOR SALE — General dental practice for sale in an easy-paced family oriented community in Whatcom County.

Annual collections of $400,000. Located next to Starbucks on busy street. Newer equipment, pano, etc., Beautiful city on the Canadian border. E-mail rod@omni-pg.com.

PEDIATRIC PRACTICE FOR SALE — Pediatric practice for sale located in the South Sound. $500,000+ per year on 3 days per week. Great location and referral sources. Contact rod@omni-pg. com for details.

GROWING DOWNTOWN SEATTLE PRACTICE FOR SALE — 2017 Collections will exceed $1 million. Four newer operatories. Room to grow in the space next door. Digital x-rays, complete remodel 4 years ago. In the heart of Amazon territory. Contact frank@omni-pg.com.

FIRST HILL PRACTICE FOR SALE — Annual collections of $600,000. Practice is in the middle of growing First Hill on the east side of Seattle and poised to expand. Four operatories, great staff, built in patient base from within the building. Contact frank@omni-pg.com.

TACOMA ORTHO PRACTICE FOR SALE — Tacoma ORTHO practice for sale – Annual collections over $600,000, six chairs, real estate also may be for sale. Contact rod@omni-pg.com.

WEST SKAGIT COUNTY PRACTICE FOR SALE — Annual collections of $350,000, downtown location, four operatories in large space. contact frank@ omni-pg.com.

SKAGIT COUNTY GENERAL DENTAL PRACTICE FOR SALE — Enjoy a relaxed lifestyle in this practice. Annual collections over $350,000. Four operatories. Only dentist in town. Contact frank@ omni-pg.com.

classifieds issue 8, august 2017

OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE

After more than 30 years of coaching Doctors, Blatchford Solutions is excited to announce a new, full-service brokerage business, Blatchford Transitions, Inc. Blatchford Transitions will offer services nationwide, helping dentists to buy and sell dental practices.

We are here to help Doctors prepare for and make rewarding transitions by expanding their thinking beyond what is presently being offered by other brokerage firms.

Dr. Bill Blatchford

We look forward to working with you when it is your time to buy, sell or merge a practice. Please visit our website blatchfordtransitions.com or call us toll-free at (844) 735-7600 to discuss your transition needs.

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OFFICES FOR SALE OR LEASE

OFFICES FOR SALE OR LEASE

CLE ELUM- Well established, general practice for sale, located in a fast growing area. Four complete operatories, 1850 square feet. Option to lease or purchase building. Located 1.5 hours east of Seattle, 10 minutes from Suncadia. Contact Dr. Lorin Peterson at klcehome@msn.com or 509-674-1389

FOR SALE — Bellevue practice for sale, close to Microsoft. Digital rad, panoramic, 1700 sq ft with 4 ops, 600k+ collections on 3 day week reply to Bel.Red.Dental@gmail.com.

FOR LEASE — Downtown Redmond medical/ dental office space for lease. Up to 2,800 sq ft. of space on the 2nd floor, floor to ceiling windows on all sides. Prime location in City Center Building across the street from City Hall, Library, School, and Bus Stop. Perfect for high visibility. Building currently occupied by two GPs, an Endodontist, Chiropractor, and Physical Therapy Clinic. Please email redmonddds@gmail.com.

BELLEVUE OFFICE SPACE FOR LEASE — Fully built out For Lease – 4 ops, high end finishes, 1,250 sq. ft.

Plenty of Parking. Contact steve@omni-pg.com.

MARYSVILLE DENTAL BUILDING FOR SALE — 6,065 sq. ft. nearly fully occupied building + residential home + additional 12,870 sq. ft. lot to grow = Great investment. Contact steve@omni-pg.com.

MAPLE VALLEY DENTAL BUILDING — Building for Sale with existing dental office space for lease. Building is 6,400 sq. ft on .95 acres. Dental space is four operatories. Growing area contact steve@omni-pg.com.

BELLEVUE MEDICAL/DENTAL OFFICE SPACE FOR LEASE — Bellevue medical/dental office Space for Lease – 2,890 sq ft. of space. Prime location on the future light rail corridor. Contact steve@omni-pg.com.

LIST OF MEDICAL/DENTAL BUILDINGS FOR SALE OR SPACE TO LEASE — Looking to purchase a medical/dental building or lease existing space? We have an updated list of medical/dental buildings for sale in the State of Washington. Building sizes range from 2,000 sq. ft. up to 20,000 sq. ft. Some buildings have existing dental space already plumbed. Contact Steve Kikikis at steve@omni-pg.com.

FEDERAL WAY PRACTICE FOR SALE — NEW LISTING! Federal Way General Dental Practice – Annual collections over $1 million. Very nice design and well-kept modern office. Four operatories with room to grow. Contact frank@omni-pg.com.

SOUTH KING COUNTY PRACTICE FOR SALE — NEW LISTING! Great location in newer office. Annual collections over $600,000. Four operatories with room to grow. Fully digital. Contact frank@omni-pg.com.

NORTH SEATTLE PRACTICE AND CONDO FOR SALE — Annual collections over $300,000. Great corner location. Grow the practice, or merge with your existing practice. Contact frank@omni-pg.com.

THURSTON COUNTY DENTAL PRACTICE FOR SALE — Five operatories, annual collections approximately $1 million, newer office build out, digital technology. Contact rod@omni-pg.com.

PERIODONTAL/RESTORATIVE PRACTICE FOR SALE. Poulsbo, WA. Turn-key. $683K production.

Four operatories. 2,150 SF, digital, Piezo, Nobel/ Straumann implant systems. Active periodontal/ restorative patients. Build practice starting with immediate income patients. PPIC95@icloud.com.

FOR SALE — Well-established (40 years) dental office for sale in stand alone building. Othello, Washington. Call (509) 989-1143 for details.

SPACE FOR LEASE, WENATCHEE — Dentist moving to new location. 3,504 sq.ft + 300 sf basement. Presently 10 ops can be split-up call 509-4214914 or email drharveyopenwide@gmail.com.

UW PRACTICE FOR SALE — Three ops, 1,268 sqft, averaging 15 new patients/month. June production 52k in 11 working days without endo/OS/ implants. Awesome location and potential. Contact Sean (206) 765-6725 - mihendeavors@gmail. com.

FOR LEASE — Beautiful first floor office in a three story professional building. Has been the location for an oral and maxillofacial surgeon for nearly 30 years. Two surgical and three exam rooms with lots of parking. Post op room and private door to drive up. One block from medical center and hospital. Park-like setting with private gardens and floor to ceiling windows. Owner of the building is a general dentist who is an owner occupant. Also an endodontist, orthodontist and other general dentists in the building. There is a need for another oral surgeon in the valley! Owner will make the lease attractive. Call for more details and a showing. (509) 670-7593.

FOR SALE — Modern general dental practice in downtown Bellevue. One to two years association with sale price to be determined at today’s value plus one half of earned equity at the time of transition. Six chair office, built out in 2008, chartless, digital pano and xrays. Email inquiries and resumes to: office@dentistryinbellevue.com.

EASTERN WASHINGTON CHELAN — Practice for sale. Established 1978. New building and equipment 2006. Four complete ops, 1500 sq.ft building, digital x-rays and pano. By owner/ dentist. Doctor wishes to retire. Will stay to transition new doctor. Reply: crgav523@aol.com.

FOR SALE, BELLEVUE — Ideal for a specialist or a general dentist start-up. Beautiful turn-key dental space for sale in Bellevue, top quality construction, DanNix design. Located on the growing Bel-Red corridor close to Microsoft, 520, new multi-family development, and the new REI corporate headquarters. Fully equipped with three operatories, all ADEC, Pano, plumbed nitrous, and separate storage space with compressor. The lease term is excellent and structured simply with base monthly rent. There is no triple NNN pass through for expenses. Please contact financial@ belmoddental.com for more details.

G/P PRACTICE FOR SALE IN NORTH KING COUNTY — Annual collections almost $900,000.

Five operatories, Dexis Digital X-rays w/ two sensors. Office located in the prime location in town.

Practice has been in same location since 1975.

Well trained and tenured staff will assist with the transition and stay on with the practice. Seller is a Delta Premier Provider. Seller does no endo, oral surgery, or pedo. Low overhead and hi net practice with great cash flow. Contact: Buck Reasor, DMD, Reasor Professional Dental Services, info@reasorprofessionaldental.com, (503) 680-4366.

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FOR SALE — General practice in Battle Ground WA. Three fully equipped operatories, busy main street location. Contact Vicki at (360) 521-8057 or lyledkelstrom@gmail.com.

FOR LEASE — BELLEVUE/FACTORIA general dentistry/specialist office for lease. 1,249 sq. ft.

3-ops. Winner location. Easy I-90/I-405 fwy access. Across the street from Factoria Mall. 15’ pole sign by Factoria Blvd. Available in November, 2017. 206-915-2263 Mark.

FOR LEASE – Brand new and modern pediatric practice located in professional medical/dental building in Bothell. Completely built out with equipment and furniture. Ready to see patients immediately! 2900 sq/feet, Eight operatories, including a surgical suite. Perfect set-up for pedodonist or pedodontist/orthodonist combination.

Contact Sonal @ dmgdentalsp@gmail.com.

KENNEWICK, WA - Turn-key office space in central Tri-Cities location. Build-out for four ops, possible room for expansion. Nice location for specialist start-up (perio?). Willing to sell existing Adec operatory packages to lessee. 2,221 sqft, Flexible lease options, NNN. For more information email cbarneydmd@gmail.com.

YAKIMA/SUNNYSIDE — We have a great associate opportunity for a new graduate or a long term home for a seasoned dentist looking to be compensated well with less of the headaches and stress.

Group practice composed of general dentists, orthodontists, and oral surgeons. For new grads it’s the perfect opportunity to learn your craft by working side by side with generalists and specialists while being paid very well. Base salary starting at $165,000 plus bonuses. Full benefits package and moving allowance. State of the art clinics and equipment. Mix of children and adult dentistry.

Mix of State and private insurance. Position available in Yakima/Sunnyside, Washington. Come try out the East side of the state where there’s 300+ days of sunshine, beautiful landscaping, the gorgeous Columbia River and family friendly communities! Please send inquiries to jbabka@applesmiles.com.

AVAILABLE, SOUTHCENTER — Just available.

1200 square foot fully equipped 4 operatory dental space. Cerec , Panoral, 4 chairs, lights, nitrous, air and vacuum all available and in place. Please call Dr. Jerome Baruffi at Medical Centers Management (206) 575-1551.

classifieds issue 8, august 2017

OFFICES FOR SALE OR LEASE

editorial continued

editorial, continued from page 4

have not heard brilliant solutions coming from the experts, and I am worried.

Otto discounts dentistry’s arguments that if reimbursement rates for Medicaid were better, there would not be such a huge problem with dental health equity. I think she failed to work out the money in her book. To be fair, I have not figured it out either.

What I do believe is that dentists have been mislabeled. We are “dental surgeons.”

We are a hybrid. We are too surgical to be compared to primary care MDs, and too primary care to be considered like hospital surgeons. The tremendous cost of doing business sets us apart from both. But somehow Medicaid has enough money to pay surgeons and primary care physicians at an equitable rate. Why not pay us?

A Kirkus review calls Otto’s book “a focused, well-researched depiction of the dental industry’s social and cultural relevance and its dire need for reform.” Oth-

er reviews are equally critical, and much more detailed. The access-to-care problem was born from dental neglect, trauma, lack of dental education, prevention programs that fail, under-funded governmental programs, geography, poor planning, lack of fluoride, poor nutrition…. the list goes on and on.

It is disrespectful to every dentist in this country to be underpaid, poorly supported, and left to weather much of the blame.

I have barely made a dent in the material Mary Otto presents in ”Teeth.” Please read the book. I know we will be facing questions from patients and legislators based on her conclusions, and the media attention it has received. The dental access-tocare problem is not of our making, but we are the only ones with the real- time, realworld information needed to help solve it. We need to be open, present, and prepared to help solve the access-to-care problem, not be indicted for it.

guest editorial continued

guest editorial, continued from page 5

then return to the whole Board to report on the planning, progress, and impact of each goal. Instead of sitting by while each individual idea is presented for full Board discussion, every member is participating at the same time in groups small enough to optimize discussion. We have been working in these groups since January, and have made tremendous progress on the important work WSDA wants to do for all its members. It’s exciting, and we are getting a lot of work done!

I currently serve as the chair of the committee focused on Leadership & Governance. Initially, our group oversaw the Strategic Planning process. Now our focus has shifted to leadership and governance in the organization. My interest in leadership and governance came from my involvement with WSDA as a new dentist. I believe the Association to be a strong support for our members, and a collective voice for our profession. I began early in my career participating in my component’s executive council and attending the WSDA House of Delegates as a delegate from Spokane. I was very fortunate to have a supportive group of dentists from Spokane who took me under their wing and grew me into various

leadership roles in the Association. The Leadership Institute also offered me an invaluable experience in the organization of WSDA. I think every dentist should have the opportunity to serve our Association by representing their region in leadership.

I want to see us continue to successfully bring in new leaders, match their talents to roles in the Association and facilitate participation in all facets of our organization.

Each year, work on the Strategic Plan will continue as the committees break down our Strategic Goals into smaller “annual objectives.” These annual objectives serve as metrics through which we evaluate the performance of the Board of Directors and the Executive Director. We believe that using annual objectives derived from our Strategic Plan serves as the optimal tool for evaluating the Association’s ongoing performance.

It has been a privilege for me to serve you on the WSDA Board, and to work with a dedicated team of directors and staff on this exciting, worthwhile project. We believe we have laid a strong foundation for the Association, and we look forward to working with you all to make it a reality.

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SERVICES

OFFICE CONSTRUCTION

FOR LEASE — Quality professional office space for lease in the heart of the Renton Highlands in the Highlands Professional Plaza medical dental building. Excellent place for an oral surgeon and/ or endodontist to open a satellite office or start up practice. Currently there are two GP dentists, a pedodontist, an orthodontist and a large physical therapy clinic. This building has a proven track record of successful businesses because of its location and quality. The building sits across the street from Bartells, QFC, and Starbucks. There are six elementary schools and four high schools within two miles. Get close to where the people live and enjoy fast practice growth. Call (206) 595-9100.

HAVE SEDATION, WILL TRAVEL! — Make fearful patients comfortable with IV Conscious Sedation. I am set up to come to your office and sedate your patients so that you can perform needed treatments the patients avoid due to fear. I have over 19 years experience providing safe IV Conscious Sedation. Serving Washington and Oregon.

Richard Garay, DDS. (360) 281-0204, garaydds@ gmail.com.

CONSTANTINE BUILDERS INC. (CBI) — WSDA endorses CBI as their preferred builder of Dental facilities with over 25 years of experience from ground up buildings, renovations, remodels, and interior tenant improvement projects. All projects are completed on time and within budget. CBI provides the highest level of quality service with integrity that exceeds our client’s expectation.

Please see our display ad on page two and website at www.constantinebuilders.com for additional information and how you can become another satisfied client. Telephone (206) 957-4400, O. George Constantine.

FOR IMMEDIATE OCCUPANCY — A fully plumbed dental office. 1,350 sq ft , three operatories, air, water, vacuum, nitrous oxide and oxygen, private office, lab, staff lounge, separate staff entrance. This office has exceptional exposure to the Southcenter Mall traffic. Please call Dr. Jerome Baruffi at Medical Centers Management (206) 5751551.

SERVICES USED/REFURBISHED EQUIPMENT — Adec, Gendex, Pelton Crane, DentalEZ, Porter, Air Tech, Midwest, Midmark and etc. Lab equipment. Parts are also available for almost all equipment. Call Dental Warehouse at 800-488-2446 or http:// cascade-dental.net.

INTRAORAL X-RAY SENSOR REPAIR — We specialize in repairing Kodak/Carestream, Dexis Platinum, Gendex GXS 700. Repair & save thousands over replacement cost. We also buy & sell dental sensors. www.RepairSensor.com / 919-924-8559.

DENTAL EQUIPMENT FOR SALE DENTAL EQUIPMENT FROM REMODEL — Rolling chairs, valves, compression gauges, tools, towel and glove dispensers, computer, grinding equipment, pluming parts, loads of cabinets with formica interiors. Make offer. Chris 206 595-5791.

FOR SALE, LOWER PRICE!!­— Gently used 2 yr-old Digital Pano (Instrumentarium OP30)$13k This unit has the Extra-Oral Bitewing program as well as TMJ Projection. The images are brilliant and easy to diagnose from. Buyer responsible for cost of moving, installing and insurance for the move. admin@UptownDentalGigHarbor. com.

Since 1968

We are pleased to announce...

Jared A. Despain, D.D.S. has acquired the practice of David T. Chuljian, D.D.S. Port Townsend, Washington Daniel J. Snyder, D.M.D. has acquired the practice of James C. Hoppe, D.D.S. Spokane, Washington Call today for a FREE PRACTICE APPRAISAL

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Practice Sales & Purchases Over $3.2 Billion

th e wsda ne w s · issue 8, august · 2017 · www.wsda.org · 53

classifieds issue 8, august 2017

OFFICES FOR SALE OR LEASE

first person dr. john evans

I do not know about you

Dr. John Evans Editorial Advisory Board

“The media would have us believe that if we are not getting a minute-to-minute news feed we, our families and our country will be at risk. We have to know.

We may have to take immediate action. We may have to send out a 911 tweet. What if we take a break and miss a one hundred-point drop in the Dow? Disaster!”

The views expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the opinion or official policy of the WSDA.

I am willing to guess that many of you, like me, have pretty much had it. Too much information. Too many opinions. Too many people trying to make a buck telling me what to think, what to buy, who to like, and how to feel about everything from the evils of chlorine — not to mention fluoride — in drinking water to the all-too-obvious shortcomings of political leaders from both parties. Enough already. Here is a solution to the problem: Turn them off. Could it be that simple? Turn them off.

I have recently discovered that life goes on if I miss an iteration of the 24/7 news cycle.

I was taught that good citizens keep up with current events. Responsible adults read the news, electronic and otherwise, every day. You should form and act on well-considered opinions. How can you live a responsible life without knowing what is going on? With the technology we have quite literally at our fingertips, there is no excuse whatsoever for not knowing what happened in Europe within 10 minutes of the actual event. Nevertheless, I have had enough. I admit I cannot keep up. Enough is enough.

So here I am giving you yet one more opinion. Now that is chutzpah. However, before you quit reading this, let me ask just one question: Who is actually in control of what you take in? Is it you? Is it me? Is it CNN? Fox News?

Using an all-inclusive term like “the media” is dangerous, but I will risk it. The media would have us believe that if we are not getting a minute-to-minute newsfeed, we, our families, and our country will be at risk. We have to know. We may have to take immediate action. We may have to send out a 911 tweet. What if we take a break and miss a 100-point drop in the Dow? Disaster! Pull the kids out of private school. Mom or Dad was out of touch and look what happened.

All right, enough hyperbole. Here is the point: The news media makes money keeping you and me overstimulated. Their primary goal is to keep their jobs by maximizing viewers, listeners, and left-clicks. Their secondary goal is to tell you what to think about everything from diapers to Vladimir Putin. A very distant third is to inform you about current events. We all know this, of course. But do we have the fortitude to simply turn them off? Until recently, I did not. Then I finally embraced the conclusion I had actually come to several years ago: The 24/7 media circus is nothing less than toxic.

Let us extend this analysis to our professional literature, our professional media, our professional lives. We are bombarded with information there, too. Given the number of publications we receive, from throwaway magazines and pseudoscientific journals to webcasts and spam right up to high-quality professional journals, we cannot possibly keep up with it all. How many emails do you delete each morning without opening them?

More than you actually read, I will wager.

As responsible professionals, we should do our best to stay informed, of course. However, that does not mean we must read every article that comes our way. That is simply not possible. So, what about the ethics of it all? What does it mean when we say “he is well read” or “she really keeps up with the literature”? That is a good question, and there is a straightforward answer.

We must learn how to choose, and how to discriminate between pseudoscience and real science. This is the basis of evidence-based dentistry. We must know (or learn) how to study a study, test a test, and incorporate only good clinical science in our practices.

This is not easy, you are thinking, and you are correct.

I could say that the ability to discriminate between good science and bad is basic to professional practice. Maybe this is too definite, but I think I will go with it. Our patients think we can do it. They assume we do it in our studies late at night. We analyze, discriminate, and separate good treatment recommendations from bad. Actually, most of us do, to one degree or another. It really feels good to understand the latest science from reputable peer-reviewed sources.

Many of the world’s best professional journals are free if you are a member of the sponsoring organization. Some are free even if you are not. Choose two or three that are pertinent to your practice, and review them regularly. You can probably get them on your phone. Read about whether or not glass ionomers have a future in dentistry, whether hepatitis C — fully one-third of your baby boomers are infected — is now actually curable, or what is on the horizon with regard to third-party reimbursement of professional services.

The professional and ethical thing to do is to choose just a few good-quality professional publications to review. Pour your favorite beverage, and settle in for a good read. Those of you who do this now, and there are many of you, please excuse the preaching.

With regard to the rest of the blaring, banal culture we live in, turn it off. Take a break.

Tomorrow will come no matter what you do. That is an inconvenient truth — a looming solar eclipse notwithstanding. You just might knock 10 points off your blood pressure, and enjoy a few minutes of blessed silence.

5 4 · th e wsda ne w s · issue 8, august · 2017 · www.wsda.org

trust

The WDIA Team to find you the right coverage

When Dr. Steven Stanley’s wife Jeanne faced a health crisis, Matt French of WDIA was there to guide him and go to bat for him with the insurance company and the state Insurance Commissioner.

Can you say the same about your insurance broker?

Steven M Stanley, DDS

I have had the pleasure of working with Matt French at WDIA for the last 15 years. He has always proven to be both knowledgeable and helpful with our insurance needs. With the constantly changing and confusing array of insurance products out there, Matt has always been very helpful and straight forward in deciphering all these options.

ley ne Stan n a e J d an Steven

I want to provide very good medical insurance for both my family and my staff, and the resources at WDIA assist me in doing so. Three years ago my wife was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma and given but 1 to 3 years to live. This diagnosis came at the same time as the renewal of our group medical plan for my office. Just hours before signing on to a new plan, Matt called me to let me know that the plan we were considering did not cover treatment at Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, which was where we were seeking treatment for my wife. Due to Matt’s diligence and foresight, we were able to sign on to a different plan which not only saved me tens of thousands of dollars, but has saved my wife’s life.

When the insurance company denied treatment to which my wife was entitled, Matt went to bat for us contacting the Washington State Insurance Commissioner and the insurance company. With his assistance, we were able to get the insurance company to agree that they were responsible to assist paying for the proposed treatment.

In addition to assisting me with my office policies, Matt and his staff have always been both gracious and extremely helpful in assisting our kids and former employees as their insurance needs have changed.

My wife and I both highly recommended Matt French and his wonderful staff at WDIA. We will always be indebted for the service he provides us. He always exceeds our expectations and for that we will be eternally grateful.

Sincerely,

Steven M. Stanley DDS

The Obvious Matt French · Kerri Seims Choice for 206.441.6824 · 800.282.9342 Washington www.wdiains.com th e A wsda ne w s · issue 8, august · 2017 · www.wsda.org · 55 Dentists WSDA Company

YOUR WDIA TEAM:

Washington State Dental Association 126 NW Canal Street Seattle, WA 98107

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5 6 · th e wsda ne w s · issue 8, august · 2017 · www.wsda.org