The UDA and the ADA House of Delegates

We have just completed a week at the American Dental Association meetings in Las Vegas. We discussed a variety of issues facing Dentistry - what an eye-opening experience. We discussed issues that will impact our daily practice, professional future and lifestyles.

Many issues that we discussed cannot be significantly influenced by individuals but can be influenced by combined voices. Using the combined voice of an association, the “dentists” perspective will be heard. The ADA has been very effective in representing us.

Some of the areas of concern that were discussed and acted upon during this last meeting include the following:

DENTAL MEDICARE - as proposed, it will be a problem. At this point dental services are to be for everyone on Medicare and included in Part B. That part of Medicare is designed for medical care. Because of differences in procedure coding, diagnostics, and software for claim submissions, dentistry is not a fit.

The paperwork to participate and submit claims will be extensive and complicated. Opting out of Medicare will be difficult and result in the loss of many older patients to a practice. As it stands dental Medicare will be severely underfunded. That will lower reimbursements not only for Medicare patients, but for insurance fee schedules in general. Dental offices will be once more part of a broken system. The ADA is now influencing the way dental Medicare should be structured. The ADA is pushing for a “stand alone” program that fits our dental software. Also encouraging dental to be a part of Medicare only for those whose income puts them at 300% of poverty level or below. This would allow better reimbursements and provide care to those truly in need. If dental Medicare becomes a reality, we hope it will be much more favorable to patients and to providers.

DENTAL EDUCATION needs constant attention. We, as practicing dentists, must keep up with new advancements. Our dental schools must continue to provide excellent dental education. The value of the Doctorate degree must be maintained. The ADA is continually looking for ways to keep dental education a priority for all.

We must influence THIRD PARTY INTRUSION where we can. Services to help dentists interact with frustrating 3rd party carriers will be available. They can be invaluable once you know where to access those services. The repeal of the McCarran Ferguson Act pertaining to Medical and Dental insurance has been a long-awaited success and policies that encourage insurance plans to protect patient rights and freedom of choice have been effective. Insurance issues are complicated. As long as dentist agree to and sign up for insurance plans that significantly reduce reimbursements or services there is little that can be done. The ADA is addressing issues that can be influenced and trying to make help available to its members.

The ADA is making efforts to PROTECT EMPLOYEE

SPEND YOUR TIME EXAMINING YOUR CLIENT’S TEETH, NOT YOUR COVERAGE.

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