The Journal of the Philadelphia County Dental Society
October/November/December July/August/September 2016 2015
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THE JOURNAL
of the Philadelphia County Dental Society ________________________________________________________________________________
First District of the Pennsylvania Dental Association October/November/December 2016 x Vol. 82 x No. 4 _____________________________________________________________________________________________ Saul N. Miller, D.D.S., '18 Editor Stanley B. Toplan, D.D.S. Associate Editor Teresa F. Ravert Executive Director
OFFICERS
Andrew J. Mramor, D.D.S. President Renee H. Fennell-Dempsey, D.M.D. President-Elect Judith A McFadden, D.M.D. Secretary A J. Chialastri, D.D.S. Secretary Emeritus Rochelle G. Lindemeyer, D.M.D. Treasurer
CONTENTS Nominations .......................................................................................2 Update: PDA Meets with Insurance Commissioner ..........................2 President’s Message ............................................................................3 Updated ACA Mandate Took Effect July 1, 2016 ..............................4 Information for PDA Members: Voting in PDA Elections .................5 Newsbriefs............................................................................................6 Health Watch ......................................................................................13 Dental Dates.......................................................................................16 Classified Ads ...................................................................................19 Workplace Tips ..................................................................................20
Stanley B. Toplan, D.D.S. Historian
GOVERNORS
Peter J. Carroll, D.D.S., '18 Jay M. Goldberg, D.D.S., '18 Kevin J. Klatte, D.M.D., '16 Michael A. Koumaras, D.M.D., '16 Stanley W. Markiewicz, D.D.S., '17 Thomas P. Nordone, D.M.D., '16 Jonathan Siegel, D.M.D., '17
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Anand V. Rao, D.M.D., '17 PDA Trustee Thomas W. Gamba, D.D.S., '16 ADA First Vice President
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EXECUTIVE OFFICES:
One Independence Place 241 South 6th Street, Unit #C3101 Philadelphia, PA 19106-3797 215-925-6050 FAX: 215-925-6998 E-mail: philcodent@aol.com WEB: www.philcodent.org
The JOURNAL is published by the Philadelphia County Dental Society, One Independence Place, 241 South 6th Street, Unit #C3101, Philadelphia, PA 19106-3797. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author under whose name they appear and are not to be regarded as representing the views of the Philadelphia County Dental Society unless so indicated. All advertising materials and correspondence, including classified advertisements and replies should be sent to: JOURNAL of the Philadelphia County Dental Society, One Independence Place, 241 South 6th Street, Unit #C3101, Philadelphia, PA 19106-3797. The Philadelphia County Dental Society does not approve or disapprove any products or services advertised in the JOURNAL. Articles for publication may be sent directly to the Editor electronically via e-mail to philcodent@aol.com Articles and classified advertisements should be submitted as Word documents; all other advertising should be submitted in .pdf format (Adobe 6.0 or higher). Contact the Society via telephone or e-mail if you require additional information. Deadline for copy is the first of the month PRECEDING the month of issue. Subscription is included in the annual dues. The JOURNAL is published electronically 4 times a year, January through December. Single printed copies: $4.00. Standard postage paid at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Copyright 2016. The Philadelphia County Dental Society.
Nominations As mandated by the Bylaws, the Board of Governors met as a Nominating Committee and presents the following report of nominations for 2017: Board of Governors: President-Elect: Lennie M. Checchio, D.D.S.. Peter J. Carroll, D.D.S. Secretary: Judith A. McFadden, D.M.D. Jay M. Goldberg, D.D.S. Treasurer: Rochelle G. Lindemeyer, D.M.D. PDA First District Trustee: Historian: Stanley B. Toplan, D.D.S. Stanley W. Markiewicz, D.D.S. Elections will take place during the Annual Business Meeting at 7:00 p.m., on Tuesday, November 15, 2016, at the Society’s Executive Offices (all Society members are welcome to attend). The Bylaws provide: 11.1.4 Additional nominations may be made by written petition signed by at least twenty (20) Active, Life or Retired Members in good standing. Such petitions must be submitted to the Secretary at least fifteen (15) days prior to the date of the Annual Business Meeting. The Secretary shall make a prompt determination as to the eligibility of nomi-nees and willingness to serve if elected. 11.1.5 No additional nominations shall be made from the floor at the Annual Business Meeting.
Update: PDA Meets with Insurance Commissioner about United Concordia Dental On August 15, 2016 PDA president Dr. Herb Ray, along with PDA legal counsel Tom Weber, CEO Camille Kostelac-Cherry and Dr. Dave Larson, PDA’s representative on ADA’s Council on Dental Benefits Programs, had a lengthy meeting with the general counsel of the PA Department of Insurance and her staff to discuss the proposed reimbursement rate reduction by UCCI and the use of this reduction to force participants to leave the network. PDA sent an email report of this meeting to all members on August 24. Dr. Ray highlighted how every cost associated with providing quality dental care has increased over time, and yet, despite premium charges increasing over time, reimbursements have been stagnant and now potentially decreasing. Dr. Ray outlined the negative impact on patient care, access issues, public health consequences and dentist financials caused by the dental benefit providers. Dr. Larson provided national statistics showing Pennsylvania ranking near the bottom of retention of dentists. Although it was not the focus of the meeting, the group also discussed assignment of benefits. General Counsel, as a consumer of dental services, appeared to appreciate how the absence of assignment of benefits could be a barrier to care.
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The Insurance Department representatives understood the issues discussed and encouraged PDA to reach out to the Department of Human Services, as well as the Department of Health to see what influence they could have in leveling the playing field. Because the Insurance Department deals specifically with patient complaints, patient data is helpful to the department. If PDA members have information related to patient complaints resulting from the reimbursement reduction or the lack of assignment of benefits, please encourage your patients to contact the Department of Insurance at http://www.insurance.pa.gov/Consumers/File%20a%20Com plaint/Pages/default.aspx The department also encouraged PDA’s effort to explore possible legislative remedies. PDA asked the department to examine what information they have available as to the increasing consumer cost of dental benefits. PDA will follow up on this request and continue to pursue every avenue available to advocate on behalf of its members and the public. Members are advised to stay tuned to the PDA website for additional information and updates as your leadership represents you and your interests in this matter.
President’s Message Andrew J. Mramor, D.D.S.
It is hard to believe that my two-year term as your President is fast coming to its end. Where did the time go? While there were some challenges to completing a couple of my initiatives, progress was made, and I plan to continue to work on these with the rest of your leadership during my service as Immediate Past President. One project in particular that is ongoing is the modernization of our webpage and utilization of social media platforms to better communicate with you. We are still searching for Dental Society members to become more involved in this endeavor. Additionally, there are other opportunities to become more involved at the local or state level. Please contact our staff for more information regarding various committees and task forces that need your help. This coming year, there will be an important election for the PDA. The position for the trustee to the ADA is to be filled, along with the election of the delegation to the 2017 ADA House of Delegates. I urge you to contact the PDA to confirm or register your email address in order to participate in the voting. Electronic voting will occur during the last two weeks of February 2017. No paper ballots will be available, it is only by a secured email voting process. Please contact
the PDA membership department at 717-2345941 or submit your email directly to Michelle Rozman (Member Services Coordinator) at mlr@padental.org Expect to receive more information regarding the candidates from the PDA in the months to come. I would like to express my sincere gratitude for your continued membership. We are not the Dental Society without you. My appreciation is warranted for the dedication and hard work that was provided by my fellow Officers and Board of Governors and individual member contributors. As volunteers, they have demonstrated a commitment to improving the dental profession. Our efforts would not have been possible without the support and hard work of our highlyqualified and knowledgeable office staff, Teresa Ravert (Executive Director) and Elizabeth “Betsy” Sonnenberg (Assistant Executive Director). Thank you! It was an honor to have served as your President, and I would like to extend my best wishes to my successor, Dr. Renee Fennell Dempsey. The Philadelphia County Dental Society will be in good hands under her watch. She is passionate about the profession and organized dentistry and has considerable leadership experience as is evident in her CV. Best wishes to Dr. Fennell Dempsey, to all of you members and the continued legacy of the Dental Society that turned 130 years old this year!
PDA’S DAY ON THE HILL TUESDAY JUNE 6, 2017 Mark your calendar now and plan to become actively involved in advocating for YOUR profession, YOUR patients and YOUR practice. FREE bus transportation from a designated location to Harrisburg and back will be available for PCDS participants. PDA will assign you to a team of four or five members, spouses and dental students and schedule legislative appointments in advance. Your team is responsible for meeting with key leaders and committee members. We also will make every effort to assign your team to visit your own legislators. If your legislators are not part of your team's assignments, please feel free to break away from your team to stop by their offices on your own and rejoin your team at another time. All appointments must take place between 10:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.
Access all the information you need to know about PDA’s Day on the Hill at www.padental.org/dayonthehill Check back frequently, as more information will be posted closer to the date. Or contact Marisa Swarney at 1-800-223-0016.
THE JOURNAL OF THE PHILADELPHIA COUNTY DENTAL SOCIETY
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Updated ACA Mandate (Section 1557) Took Effect July 18, 2016 ADA’s Request for Extension Denied
In response to a request from the ADA, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights (OCR) said on August 15th that it will not delay enforcement of the final rule issued under Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The mandate went into effect July 18, 2016. OCR issued a final rule prohibiting health care entities that receive federal financial assistance from discriminating based on age, race, color, nationality, disability or gender. Section 1557 is the first federal civil rights law barring discrimination on the basis of sex in health care. The Affordable Care Act has been in effect since March 2010. The rule implements Section 1557 of the ACA and applies to any health care provider who receives funds through HHS, including Medicaid and CHIP. While Section 1557 does not apply to Medicare Part B, OCR has clarified that the final rule does apply to any provider who receives reimbursement for Medicare Part C, Medicare Advantage, regardless of whether the plan reimburses the dentist or the patient. The rule protects individuals with disabilities by requiring covered entities “to make electronic information and newly constructed or altered facilities accessible to individuals with disabilities and to provide appropriate auxiliary aids and services for individuals with disabilities,” according to OCR. OCR also said that covered entities will be required to “take reasonable steps to provide meaningful access to individuals with limited English proficiency” providing qualified interpreters and translators. For dental practices that receive certain federal financial assistance from HHS, the Section 1557 final rule requires that they must post two kinds of notices: a notice of nondiscrimination, and taglines in the top 15 non-English languages spoken in the state indicating that free language assistance services are available. The notices must be posted in the dental office, on the website and in any significant publications and communications. For smaller items, such as postcards and tri-fold brochures, the practice may use a shorter nondiscrimination statement and tag-lines in the top two non-English languages spoken in the state. The compliance date for the notices is 90 days after the effective date, or October 16, 2016. The ADA tagline has translated into the languages needed to comply with the tagline requirement and became available to members in mid-September. Translations of the OCR sample tagline are available on the OCR website.
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Covered dental practices with 15 or more employees will also be required to implement a grievance procedure and designate an employee to be responsible for grievances. ADA has received inquiries from members about documenting patient encounters where an interpreter or translator are necessary, and/or coding for interpretation or translation services. In addition to including any narrative in the patient record, beginning in 2017, a new CDT code can be used. D9994 dental case management – patient education to improve oral health literacy will be available. This was addressed in the ADA News on September 19, 2016. HHS has released an updated list of the ‘Top 15’ non-English languages spoken by state. ADA has been comparing this new list with the one previously provided by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. In July, the ADA requested an extension of the implementation deadlines, noting that while the ADA strongly supports nondiscrimination, it was concerned that the final rule “risks further limiting patient access to care.” The Association also urged OCR to take into account the financial and other burdens that the rule will impose on small businesses. In OCR’s response, Director Jocelyn Samuels said that because the effective date (July 18) was “set by operation of the final rule,” OCR is not able to make exceptions. Ms. Samuels also said OCR had devoted “substantial resources” to the development of the estimate of the burdens and benefits posed by the regulation. “We believe the estimates in our impact analyses are sound, and we are unaware of any data or other evidence that would undermine our conclusions. Thus, we decline your request to revise the analysis of the burdens and benefits of the regulation that we have conducted and published,” wrote Ms. Samuels. To minimize the administrative burden for member dentists who are covered entities, the ADA has prepared resources to aid in compliance with the rule, including a FAQ page and checklist. Visit www.Success.ADA.org/1557resources where a webinar entitled Understanding Section 1557 is available or ada.org/1557 There are also sample materials available on OCR’s website at http://www.hhs.gov/civil-rights/forindividuals/section-1557/translated-resources/index.html
IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR PDA MEMBERS
HOW TO VOTE FOR PDA / ADA OFFICERS ALL PDA/ADA MEMBERS MAY VOTE FOR OFFICER CANDIDATES YOU WILL VOTE FOR PDA OFFICERS, ADA DELEGATES AND ADA TRUSTEE PCDS HAS CANDIDATES FOR ADA TRUSTEE AND ADA DELEGATES VOTING TAKES PLACE ONLINE IN FEBRUARY 2017 YOU MUST SHARE YOUR EMAIL WITH PDA TO RECEIVE A BALLOT THERE IS AN “ELECTION” PAGE ON WWW.PADENTAL.ORG WHERE YOU CAN LOOK AT THE CANDIDATES PDA WILL EMAIL YOU A BALLOT IN FEBRUARY COMPLETE YOUR BALLOT AND SEND TO PDA YOU WILL RECEIVE A CONFIRMATION REQUEST FROM PDA SEND THE CONFIRMATION BACK TO PDA PLEASE EXERCISE YOUR RIGHT AS A MEMBER TO CHOOSE THE LEADERS OF YOUR ASSOCIATION NEED HELP? CALL PDA AT 800-223-0016 CALL PCDS AT 215-925-6050
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Newsbriefs AP Report on Flossing Creates Stir
A report published by the Associated Press on August 2, 2016 that “there’s little proof that flossing works” caused a stir around the country – including here in Philadelphia. The report went on to say, “Still, the federal government, dental organizations and manufacturers of floss have pushed the practice for decades. Dentists provide samples to their patients; the American Dental Association insists on its website that flossing ‘is an essential part of taking care of your teeth and gums.’” The report further states that the federal government, which had recommended flossing since 1979, removed the flossing recommendation when it issued its latest dietary guidelines. The report takes to task the American Dental Association, the American Association of Periodontology, and manufacturers of dental floss – specifically Procter & Gamble and Johnson & Johnson. The CBS Morning News and its local affiliate carried the story. The Philadelphia Inquirer printed the AP report and then further issued its own “antiflossing” editorial which was published on August 15. The ADA acted quickly to provide information and talking points to dental societies nationwide on August 2 and August 4. On August 16, PCDS president Andrew Mramor sent the following letter to the Philadelphia Inquirer. To the Editorial Board: Your editorial in yesterday morning’s edition, (Case for flossing hanging by a slim thread, August 15) is utterly irresponsible. The implication that by not including flossing in the 2015 U.S. Dietary Guidelines, the government has changed its stance on flossing is not the case. The Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee (DGAC) made a deliberate decision to focus on food and nutrient intake (i.e., added sugar). The Dietary Guidelines have no bearing on the longstanding recommendation from the Surgeon General, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and other health agencies to clean between teeth daily. Unfortunately, your August 15 editorial did not mention the fact that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) reaffirmed on August 4, 2016 the importance of flossing in the following statement: “Flossing is an important oral hygiene practice. Tooth decay and gum disease can develop when plaque is allowed to build up on teeth and along the gum line. Professional cleaning, tooth brushing, and cleaning between teeth (flossing and the use of other tools such as interdental brushes) have been shown to disrupt and remove plaque.”
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Flossing, as part of one’s daily oral health regimen, helps to prevent decay and the buildup of plaque – which contains bacteria – around the teeth and gums.The CDC estimates that 47% of adults age 30 and over have some form of periodontal (gum) disease. That number grows to 70% in adults age 65 and over. To maintain good oral health, the American Dental Association continues to recommend brushing for two minutes twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, cleaning between teeth once a day with an interdental cleaner (such as floss) and regular dental visits as advised by one’s dentist. Dentists – and, yes the manufacturers of oral health implements such as floss – are working hard to help people reduce both decay and periodontal disease. To demean these efforts does a disservice to everyone. The following sites have additional information and resources about efforts to address and improve oral health: National Institute of Dental and Crainofacial Research (http://www.nidcr.nih.gov/) CDC’s Division of Oral Health (http://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/) Healthy People 2020 (https://www.healthypeople.gov/2020/topicsobjectives/topic/oral-health)
ADA Implements New Credentialing Website
On June 8, 2016, the ADA announced the creation of a new, centralized dental credentialing database, which was developed in an effort to help simplify the credentialing process and reduce administrative burdens for dentists. The new technology, powered by the Wonderbox Technologies Enterprise System, allows member dentists to enter their credentials into a highly secure portal through ADA.org The service is free to ADA members. Payers can go to a separate ADA portal to download the information as raw or verified files for a nominal fee. This information will be available by request to all payers, including insurance companies, federal agencies, hospitals and employers. Dentists will be able to upload supporting documentation. Built-in reminders will be triggered to send dentists email reminders when any information is set to expire. Beyond the need to update information, dentists will only need to enter their creden(continued on page 7) tialing data once.
Newsbriefs (cont’d.) Considerations for New Overtime Rules
The June 7, 2016 Newsletter of the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce contained an article regarding new overtime rules which become effective December 1, 2016. Written by Dennis Shrenk, Senior Compensation Consultant of PROXUS (a company that provides payroll and human resource management services to Philadelphia area small and mid-sized businesses), the article noted a number of items employers should consider. Overtime must be paid to certain employees earning less than $913/week or $47,476/year (Standard Salary Level). The threshold for highly compensated employees increases to $134,004/year. Any employee earning below the new Standard Salary Level will be considered non-exempt and entitled to overtime pay, regardless of title or duties. Employers with staff earning below this new threshold must either make these employees eligible for overtime, or increase their salary to meet the new Standard Salary Level. Mr. Shenk notes that, “While employers can increase the salaries of employees to meet the new salary level, they should also consider those employees who are already earning above the threshold. Treating groups of employees differently, particularly those within the same job function or level, can cause significant employee relations disputes.” While increasing employees’ pay to meet the new threshold can present a significant financial burden for employers, he says, so too can paying those same employees time and a half for any hours worked over forty. Employers need to review which positions are susceptible to reclassification and determine which course of action makes the most financial sense for their business. The new salary levels will automatically update every three years, so he cautions that employers need to make sure they have the necessary pay practices and policies in place to remain compliant now and in the future. Automated Time and Attendance systems can be extremely useful in tracking hours worked and ensuring employees receive accurate pay for those hours worked above forty. You may seek more information from the Department of Labor’s publication, Guidance for Private Employers on Changes to the White Collar Exemptions in the Overtime Final Rule (visit https://www.dol.gov/whd/overtime/final2016/generalguidance.pdf ) To request a copy of Mr. Shrenk’s article, send an email to philcodent@aol.com (in the title, type “Overtime Article”).
Support Growing for Overtime Reform Bill
Support is growing for legislation that would address some of the concerns employers have with the Department of Labor’s (DOL) new overtime rule. While not necessarily opposed to an adjustment to the current overtime threshold, many associations expressed concern that the new rule would adversely affect a good number of nonprofit organizations and other employers with limited revenues, and could harm many affected employees as well. A bill (H.R. 5813) introduced July 17, 2016 by Rep. Kurt Schrader (D-OR) would incrementally phase in the new salary threshold over the next three years to give businesses adequate time to adjust to the new standard while also ensuring workers are fairly compensated. This bill would also eliminate a provision in the final overtime rule that allows for automatic updates to the salary threshold every three years. Schrader’s bill is widely viewed as a reasonable compromise that can win bipartisan support.
ADA New Standards on Teeth Whitening
The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) has approved an ADA-developed standard regarding products for external tooth bleaching. ANSI/ADA Standard No. 136 addresses requirements and test methods for products intended for external bleaching of natural teeth by chemical means, and is available for purchase at ebusiness.ADA.org by searching for “Standard No. 136.” Dental professionals, manufacturers, researchers –including those from the ADA Laboratories – and other subject matter experts collaborated over several years to develop the standard. “The goal . . . is to establish safety requirements so that the public does not face risk of harm when using bleaching products,” said Clifton Carey, Ph.D., a member of the ADA Standards Committee on Dental Products and director of translational research at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine. The Council on Scientific Affairs is expected to incorporate these safety requirements for external tooth whitening into the ADA Seal of Acceptance Program Requirements. In order to obtain the ADA Seal, manufacturers will be required to submit safety data in accordance with ANSI/ADA Standard No. 136, as well as evidence for product efficacy. For more information about the ADA’s development of standards or to get involved in their development, visit ADA.org/dentalstandards or email at standards@ada.org (continued on page 8)
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Newsbriefs (cont’d.) ADA Dentists in the (Good) News
¾ Friday, June 3, 2016 was 70’s Retro Night at the Phillies baseball game. The game was telecast on Comcast SportsNet, which covers southeastern Pennsylvania, South Jersey and most of Delaware. Jim Lonborg, who pitched for the team from 1972 to 1979, threw out the first pitch. In a televised interview during the 4th inning, he talked about being grateful to have been a major league player for fifteen years (he was also with the Boston Red Sox where he won a Cy Young Award and with the Milwaukee Brewers who were the Phils’ opponents on that Retro Night night). He said he was thankful that he was able to enter a career in health care after baseball. He is an ADA Life Member and has practiced dentistry in Hanover, MA, for more than thirty years. In the interview, he said that “dentistry is a wonderful profession,” and that he still practices and “looks forward to going to work every day.” See the interview on You Tube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HwHr7gme1aY ¾ A report on WNEP TV, serving northeastern and central Pennsylvania, in March of 2016 noted that PDA member Dr. Maria Tacelosky and her staff did not want to be referred to as heroes, but that’s what they are. The group works at The Dental Health Clinic in Berwick, PA. An employee took a call that a worker in another office needed medical help – “Because we’re a dental office and it’s the only medical facility in the building,” said Dr. Tacelosky. The dental team ran down the hallway and found a woman who was not breathing and did not have a pulse, so the doctor and her employees started CPR and used a defibrillator. “Once the shock of what I was seeing happened, I could hear Dr. T in my head and I immediately went into action,” said dental assistant Marybeth Roberts. “Obviously, we weren’t prepared for it at that moment and then when the emergency happened, we were all ready to get in there and do our jobs like we trained,” said dental hygienist Gene Moisey. Every couple of months, the staff runs through drills to practice what to do in emergency situations. It “gets the staff more prepared in case there is an emergency,” said Dr. Tacelosky. The group was able to revive the woman and keep her stable until the paramedics arrived. Even so, they don’t consider themselves heroes. “The right things happened at the right time to help save her life. She knew to call someone to tell them she wasn’t feeling well. They called us and everything went well from there, thank goodness,” Dr. Tacelosky added. The woman is doing well and recovering at home. She called the office to thank the staff for saving her life.
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Stericycle Contracts, Business Decisions Called into Question
The June 20, 2016 issue of ADA News featured an article by staffer Kelly Soderlund about contract issues dentists seem to be having with Stericycle. The story described instances where dentists across the country have contacted the ADA to report escalating fees that were not explicitly stated in their original Stericyle contracts and contracts that automatically renew with only a small window to cancel before it reups for several more years. One example was that of a dentist in Michigan, under contract to Stericycle, who received a flier offering pickup for medical waste at a price that intrigued her enough to study her invoices for what she was currently paying. The new company advertised its price at $60 per pickup, typically done on a quarterly basis. The doctor looked at her current expenses emanating from a contract she signed with Stericycle in 2009. She found that she was paying a monthly charge of $105 – $315 each quarter – to pick up one 28-gallon container that typically wasn’t full. By the first quarter of 2016, her quarterly bill had risen to $1,100 – a nearly 250 percent increase from when she originally signed a contract. She noted that the original contract specified “there may be increases related to rising fuel costs or increased fees Stericycle incurred for disposal that they could pass on to the customer.” The doctor said she didn’t keep up with the increasing charges from Stericycle because the amount was debited automatically along with numerous other charges that came through the dental office’s account. Searching the Internet, she was surprised to learn that Stericycle was the subject of a number of lawsuits. In October 2015, the Illinois attorney general’s office announced a $26.75 million settlement with the company for allegedly overcharging government entities in several states by millions of dollars, resolving the company’s alleged violations of the U.S. and State False Claims Acts. The lawsuit alleged that since 2003, Stericycle implemented a plan to charge automatic price increases without giving any notice to its government customers in violation of state and federal false claims laws. Illinois, California, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Florida, Indiana, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Jersey, North Carolina, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Virginia and the federal government will receive portions of the settlement. In a separate lawsuit, a law firm based in Seattle, filed a class action lawsuit in 2013 against Stericycle alleging that the company misled its customers regarding pricing. In January 2016, the firm filed a (continued on page 9)
Newsbriefs (cont’d.) motion to certify the class of plaintiffs. “The first rule: a deal is a deal. Stericycle entered into fixed-price contracts and it was obligated to honor those prices,” according to the lawsuit, which can be viewed at hbsslaw.com/cases/stericycle “The second rule: tell the truth. Stericycle was obligated to give its customers accurate and complete information about its service contracts and the prices it charged.” The article featured reports about other dentists across the country who felt they were also overcharged and who contacted Stericycle in order to get out of their contracts. ADA members are cautioned to read the fine print before they sign anything with Stericycle. ADA offers guidance on the Center for Professional Success on how to navigate contracts containing auto renewal provisions at Success.ADA.org/contract-auto-renew
ADA Urges Increase in Flexible Savings Accounts
ADA staffer Jennifer Garvin reported in a recent article on ADA.org that the Organized Dentistry Coalition (ODC) is urging the House Ways and Means Subcommittee to increase the annual flexible spending account cap from $2,550 a year to $5,000. In a letter drafted by the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS) and signed by ten dental organizations, including the ADA, the ODC urged the committee to increase the limit so that consumers are able to put more of their pretax dollars toward health care expenses. “Out-of-pocket costs for traditional medical insurance easily exceed the current $2,550 annual cap,” the letter states. “When you factor in the rising costs of deductibles, copays and prescription medication, this inflexibility forces some patients to forgo necessary care, including dental care.” The coalition points out that in 2015 consumers spent an average of $4,065 for out-of-pocket expenses, noting that dental procedures often require out-ofpocket expenses – even for those consumers with dental insurance. “Many common and necessary dental procedures such as dental implants, a set of braces, a root canal, or even the extraction of an abscessed tooth require out-of-pocket spending,” notes the letter. “By restricting consumers to save only fifty percent of what they can expect to spend out of pocket, we are forcing them to make critical medical decisions based on what they can afford, not on what is medically necessary.”
ADA Technical Reports Available at No Cost
Internet security, digital imaging and electronic health records are all subjects of ADA technical reports, and are available for download at no cost to members. The reports were previously available for a fee. “Technical reports, frequently referred to as TRs, are written to describe and explain a particular topic for both the nontechnical as well as the technically inclined reader,” said Dr. Terry O’Toole, vice chair of the ADA Council on Dental Practice. The technical reports offer up-to-date information on new materials, technologies or software; or are tutorial in nature, helping members specify and select new hardware, software and devices of all types. The reports are developed and vetted by ADA experts. ADA members can access technical reports at ebusiness.ADA.org and search for “technical reports.” Here are just some of the reports that are available: ANSI/ADA Standard No. 109 Procedures for Storing Dental Amalgam Waste and Requirements for Amalgam Waste Storage/Shipment Containers (2006, R2012) ADA Technical Report No. 1006 for Infection Control for Dental Information Systems (2013) ADA Technical Report No. 1029 for Digital Photography (2004, R2013) ADA Technical Report No. 1031 for Internet Security Issues for Dental Information Systems (2004, R2013) ADA Technical Report No. 1055 for Guidelines for Hardware and Software in Dental Practice (2011) ADA Technical Report No. 1085 for Implementation Guidelines for the Secure Transmission of Protected Health Information for Dentistry (2015) ADA White Paper No. 1070 for Implementation of the Electronic Prescription Standard for Dentistry (continued on page10) (2012).
Remember to Vote: Tuesday, November 8, 2016
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Newsbriefs (cont’d.) Theft or Loss of Controlled Substances
Federal regulations require that registrants notify the DEA Field Division Office in their area, in writing, of the theft or significant loss of any controlled substance within one business day of discovery of such loss or theft. The registrant shall also complete and submit to the Field Division Office in their area, DEA Form 106, “Report of Theft or Loss of Controlled Substances” regarding the theft or loss. DEA controlled substance registrants are strongly encouraged to complete and submit the DEA Form106 online at http://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/21cfr_reports/theft/index .html If a registrant does not have internet access, a paper copy of the DEA-106 form can be requested by writing to: Drug Enforcement Administration Attn: Regulatory Section/ODG 8701 Morrissette Drive Springfield, VA 22152 Only those persons registered with DEA to handle controlled substances may utilize this form.
Health Plan Premiums Projected to Increase
Premiums for health plans purchased through the federal insurance exchange may jump substantially in 2017, according to a June 2016 report by the Kaiser Family Foundation. The report shows that proposed rates for benchmark silver plans – the most popular tier of coverage which is the basis for enrollees’ tax subsidies – are projected to increase 10 percent in 2017 on average across fourteen major metropolitan areas. Generally, about two-thirds of enrollees in the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace choose a silver plan. The analysis finds that changes in benchmark premiums vary widely from market to market, ranging from a decrease of 13 percent in Providence, RI, to an increase of 18 percent in Portland, OR. Doubledigit increases can be expected in Washington, DC (16 percent), New York (16 percent) and Baltimore (15 percent), among others. While cost concerns have caused several insurance companies to withdraw from the exchanges next year – most notably UnitedHealth – the analysis finds that the number of insurers participating in ACA marketplaces in half of the states (including DC) will hold steady or increase relative to the beginning of 2016.
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THE JOURNAL OF THE PHILADELPHIA COUNTY DENTAL SOCIETY
Be Wary of Phishing Scams
Recently, the State Bar of Michigan emailed its members, warning lawyers of a new phishing attack targeting bar associations around the country. The fraudulent emails “appear to come from state bar presidents and have a similar subject line to State Bar of Michigan Complaint,” warned the State Bar of Michigan, urging its members to monitor emails closely. The ADA reminds members to be on the lookout for phishing – a term used to describe when “internet fraudsters impersonate a business to trick you into giving out your personal information,” according to OnGuardOnline.Gov the federal government’s website designed to help consumers be safe, secure and responsible online. Some phishing emails try to trick the recipient into clicking on a link or attachment that can cause malware to be downloaded. For more information about phishing, visit the Federal Trade Commission (www.ftc.gov). The Better Business Bureau (www.bbb.org) also provides information which allows consumers to track scams in their area. The ADA Center for Professional Success has tips to help ADA member dentists safeguard their practice from hackers. https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0003-phishing and http://success.ada.org/en/practice/operations/efficientsystems/tips-to-safeguard-your-practice-from-computerhackers
Mississippi Hospital Agrees to HIPAA Settlement
The University of Mississippi Medical Center has agreed to pay $2.75 million to settle multiple alleged Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) violations. According to the Office for Civil Rights (OCR), its investigation followed UMMC’s report of a stolen laptop. The investigation revealed that information stored on a UMMC network drive was “vulnerable to unauthorized access” via the hospital’s wireless network because users could access a directory that included 328 files containing the electronic protected health information of some 10,000 patients dating back to 2008. OCR said the hospital was “aware of risks and vulnerabilities to its systems as far back as April 2005, yet no significant risk management activity occurred until after the breach, due largely to organizational deficiencies and insufficient institu(continued on page11) tional oversight.”
Newsbriefs (cont’d.) BPA in Dental Sealants Safe
Research published in the August issue of the ADA Professional Product Review shows that a 6year-old child is exposed to more BPA from food; drinks; sunscreen, shampoo, body wash and other cosmetics; and air and thermal paper (such as cash register receipts) than from the amount that is in dental sealants. The ADA Science Institute staff tested the BPA release from 12 dental sealants used by dentists in the U.S. The analysis indicated that the BPA release from dental sealants is very low — .09 nanograms. This amount is well below the limit proposed for a 6-yearold child (who weighs about 20 kilograms, or 44 pounds) by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (1 million nanograms per day) and the European Food Safety Authority (80,000 nanograms per day). “This issue of the PPR provides a much-needed perspective on the amount of BPA in dental materials compared with other sources of exposure,” said Dr. David Sarrett, PPR editor. The publication of the PPR coincided with the August publication of a systematic review and updated clinical practice guidelines it helped generate in The Journal of the American Dental Association (JADA). Those articles give a clear indication of the benefits of the use of sealants in preventing and managing occlusal caries in children and adolescents. “Dental sealants offer a tremendous oral health benefit to children and should continue to be a routine preventive service,” said Dr. Sarrett. In addition to the BPA article and its corresponding laboratory reports, the August PPR includes an expert panel discussion about BPA, and an essay about the BPA released from resin-based dental sealants from the Council on Scientific Affairs’ caries workgroup. For more information or to access the current issue, visit ADA.org/ppr ADA Member login is required for access.
Time to Renew PA Training in Child Abuse Recognition and Reporting
All licensed dental professionals (DMD, DDS, RDH, EFDA) need 2 hours of Department of Public Welfare (DPW) and State Board approved training in child abuse recognition and reporting by March 31, 2017. This is a two-year requirement that was instituted in Pennsylvania beginning with those whose licenses were renewed in 2015.
The Philadelphia County Dental Society will present PDA's program, Child Abuse Recognition and Reporting for Dental Professionals, on March 22, 2017 as the first in the year’s series of continuing education programs. The program is approved by the Department of Human Services and the PA State Board of Dentistry and will fulfill Act 31 mandatory CE requirements for licensed dental professionals (dentists, hygienists and EFDAs). PDA’s program is custom designed for dental professionals and offers two CE credits that can be applied toward the hours you need to renew your dental license. Brochures will be mailed before December 31, 2016. You may register online at philcodent.org after January 9, 2017.
CDT 2017 Now Available from ADA
The ADA has released CDT 2017: Dental Procedure Codes, the definitive manual of codes for documentation and reimbursement. This latest edition of CDT is designed to streamline coding and help maximize reimbursement by third-party payers. The new edition features eleven new codes, five revised codes and one deleted code. The manual builds on previous code sets with codes that fill documentation gaps, making it easier to code quickly and accurately. More detailed options for documentation also provide better protection from legal liability, as well as fewer rejected insurance claims. The Code on Dental Procedures and Nomenclature in CDT 2017 is the only HIPAA-recognized code set for dentistry. Also available is the CDT 2017 Companion: Help Guide for the Dental Team, designed to train dental staff to code more accurately and efficiently. The completely revamped Companion is now organized by coding category, each chapter written by dental industry leaders. The book includes more than 50 new and updated coding scenarios and answers more than 100 common coding questions. The CDT Code Check App for iOS and Android allows dental professionals to access CDT codes in the palm of their hand. An e-book and several product bundles complete the CDT 2017 offerings. The availability of these tools allows time for staff training before the codes go into effect on January 1, 2017. These products can be ordered at adacatalog.org
THE JOURNAL OF THE PHILADELPHIA COUNTY DENTAL SOCIETY
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P G Uture N I c P Le
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THE DENTAL SOCIETY OF CHESTER COUNTY Regis AND DELAWARE COUNTY, PA on - li ter DKUd ne at proudly presents ental .
DKU Continuing Dental Education
Springfield Country Club, Delaware County
DKU is an ADA CERP Recognized Provider. ADA CERP is a service of the American Dental Association to assist dental professionals in identifying quality providers of continuing dental education. ADA CERP does not approve or endorse individual courses or instructors, nor does it imply acceptance of credit hours by boards of dentistry. DKU designates this activity for 30 continuing education credits. Concerns or complaints about a CE provider may be directed to the provider or to ADA CERP at www.ada.org/cerp.
com
Approved PACE Program Provider FAGD/MAGD credit. Approval does not imply acceptance by a state or provincial board of dentistry or AGD endorsement. The current term of approval extends from 3/1/2013 to 2/28/2017. Provider ID #217995
Wednesday, November 9, 2016 Paul Feuerstein, DMD – Chelmsford, MA – “Technology In Your Dental Practice- A Review of Current Products and a Look Into the Future” In an overview of the latest high tech products being integrated in today’s practices, learn about products in the following areas: Road to chartless practice, cameras-digital and intraoral; digital radiography; caries and oral disease detection; computer imaging, shade taking, patient education; new ConeBeam CT technology, software and implant planning; new 3D intraoral digital impressions and CAD systems; and the latest tech products. Specific examples, many which are used in Dr. Feuerstein’s private practice, will demystify many products and help you make intelligent design and purchase decisions. There will also be a look at several interesting new products that have recently come to the marketplace and some that have not yet arrived. If you have already “gone digital’ there are plenty of tips and tidbits for you. If you have not gone yet, this course is a must. Learning Objectives: Learn about the newest high tech products; Receive information to help make informed purchase decisions for the practice; See how the products are used clinically in a typical general practice. Dr Feuerstein is 1972 graduate of UNJMD. He maintains a general practice in Massachusetts. He is now the Technology Editor of Dentistry Today after 14 years with Dental Economics. This program is great for the entire clinical team. This course is supported by educational grants from Dodd Dental Lab, Carestream and Hayes Handpiece.
Wednesday, December 7, 2016 Robert Lowe, DDS – Charlotte, NC – “Practical Aesthetic Dentistry for the Restorative Practice” In today’s ever-changing economic environment, the dentist must continue to provide quality service to the patient, yet remain profitable. Effective use of emerging technologies in dentistry will help to differentiate your practice in the marketplace. In this technique filled seminar, Dr. Lowe will teach you the skills you need to refine your restorations to a level that will help you create consistent quality. New technologies and techniques will be discussed along with how implementation of these technologies can help the “bottom line” of your practice. A discussion regarding the latest dental materials and delivery modalities will help in treatment planning even the most difficult functional and aesthetically challenging cases. This technique-oriented seminar is geared toward delivering useful clinical information that can be implemented immediately having a positive impact on the “bottom line” of your practice! Topics will include the following: Advances In Direct Composites.; World Class Crown and Bridge Techniques; What’s New In Aesthetic Dentistry? Dr. Lowe received his DDS degree from Loyola University in 1982, has maintained a full time practice for 30 years, and is a world recognized teacher and clinician. A great course for the restorative staff. This course is supported by educational grants from Dodd Dental Lab and PNC Bank.
Wednesday, February 8, 2017 DeWitt C. Wilkerson DMD – St Petersburg, FL – “BEST PRACTICE, PRINCIPLES FOR SUCCESS: The Integrative Dental Medicine Model” The opportunity to succeed in Dentistry has never been greater for those who apply “Best Practice” Principles. Dentistry is a medical specialty, a science, and an art–it’s time to replace guesswork with confident solutions. Checklists for Success provide easy to follow systems that result in predictability, profitability, and fun! Create Predictably Beautiful Smiles = Esthetics • Create Predictably Stable Bites = Occlusion • Protect the Comfort of the Joints & Muscles = TMJ • Establish a Healthy “Culture” = Bacteria • 5. Maintain Open Airways = Sleep Apnea • Counsel an Anti-inflammatory Diet = Nutrition. Learning Objectives: The participants will understand Dentistry as a medical specialty; The participants will receive checklists for evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment; The participants will leave the seminar with new ideas to implement that will increase practice success both clinically and financially. Dr. Wilkerson joined the Peter Dawson private practice group in 1982, where he actively practices today. He serves as a Senior Lecturer/Director of Dental Medicine at the Dawson Academy, and Adjunct Professor, University of Florida College of Dentistry. This presentation serves as a one day concentrated learning experience for the whole dental team. This course is supported by educational grants from Dodd Dental Lab, and Hayes Handpiece.
Thursday, April 6, 2017 Stanley Malamed, DDS – Los Angeles, CA – “10 Minutes to Save a Life: Emergency Medicine in Dentistry” Life-threatening emergencies can occur anytime, anywhere and to anyone. Such situations are somewhat more likely to occur within the confines of the dental office due to the increased level of stress that is so often present. In this course Dr. Malamed will discuss the areas which are considered vital to a proper understanding of emergency medicine: prevention, preparation, recognition and management. The first session will encompass a discussion of preparation involving the office and staff; including a thorough review of the office emergency kit (drugs and equipment). The second session will encompass the recognition and management of specific emergency situations and includes the management of unconsciousness, respiratory distress, seizures, drug-related emergencies and chest pain, including cardiac arrest and use of the AED. Doctor Malamed, a dentist anesthesiologist, graduated from the NYU College of Dentistry in 1969 and then completed a residency in anesthesiology at Montefiore Hospital. He is Emeritus Professor of Dentistry at the Ostrow School of Dentistry at U.S.C in Los Angeles. Dr. Malamed is a Diplomate of the American Dental Board of Anesthesiology. This course is designed for all members of the dental office staff, not just the doctor and chairside personnel. Everyone should be prepared! This course is supported by educational grants from Dodd Dental Lab, Health First and Hayes Handpiece.
Wednesday, May 3, 2017 Kirk Behrendt – Overland Park, KS – “The top 7 secrets to make your practice thrive and inspire your team!” Some Dentists and Team members are working harder than ever for the same result. Bring your team to this inspirational lecture to see powerful secrets that you and your team can use for more opportunities to produce more dentistry and reduce the amount of open chairs in your office today. The future of dentistry will belong to practices that grow, adapt, build value and attract new patients with the right internal and external marketing tactics. Bring your team to this valuable lecture where we will show you what some of the best dental practices in the country are doing to attract more high quality patients with simple marketing tactics that are really working this year. Learn the 5 ways to significantly reduce cancellations in your schedule. See how great practices are keeping case acceptance high in this economy. See at least 42 different marketing tactics that have worked for dentists in this economy. Examine how social media and the internet can be a valuable asset. Explode the number of new patients in your practice without breaking your bank. Kirk Behrendt is the Founder of ACT Dental, a customized coaching company for dentists. He has invested his entire professional life studying the top dental practices in the world and their leadership. Kirk has been recognized as one of Dentistry Today Top Leaders in Dental. Dr. Peter Dawson called him “THE best motivator I have ever heard.”This course is a must for the entire office team! This course is supported by educational grants from Dodd Dental Lab, and PNC Bank. All meetings will be held at the Springfield Country Club on Route 320, Springfield, Delaware County, PA. Registration for all courses 8:15 AM. Lecture 9:00 AM – 4:15 PM. Continental breakfast and lunch included for all DKU courses.
FEES
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Delco and Chesco Society Members - Entire Series - $695, Individual Courses - $210, 3 Courses - $560, 4 Courses - $655 Other ADA Members - Entire Series - $745 Individual Courses - $225, 3 Courses - $600, 4 Courses - $695 Non-ADA Members - Entire Series - $815, Individual Courses - $240, 3 Courses - $635, 4 Courses - $755 Staff members accompanied by a doctor will be $110 per course per person with reservation at least one week in advance, $130 per course per person at door. Cancellations and Refund Policy - No refunds will be made without notice of at least one week prior to course date. (A $25 administrative fee will be deducted.) For information please contact: DKU • c/o Barry Cohen, DMD • 4750 Township Line Rd • Drexel Hill, PA 19026 • 610-449-7002 • DKUDental@aol.com
THE JOURNAL OF THE PHILADELPHIA COUNTY DENTAL SOCIETY
Health Watch Dietary Supplements: No Guarantees
Dietary supplements – including herbs, vitamins, minerals, and other products – are a $37 billion industry in the United States, and sixty percent of women are taking them regularly. This information appeared online from Harvard Women’s Health Watch on April 1, 2016. The article notes that the value of most herbs and supplements has been discounted or remains unproven. Few are worth the money spent on them; and there is no guarantee that the pills, capsules, or tablets contain all – or even any – of the ingredients listed on the packaging. A study published in October 2015 in The New England Journal of Medicine found that the adverse effects of supplements were responsible for an average of 23,000 emergency department visits per year. When it comes to dietary supplements, the ancient warning “buyer beware!” is more relevant than ever. The physicians at Harvard say that if you are concerned that your diet is not providing all the nutrients you need, don’t shop for supplements before talking to your physician. If you truly need a vitamin or other dietary supplement, your clinician can suggest an appropriate product and dose. If you are currently taking a vitamin or other supplement, be sure to let your health care team know.
Superbugs and Antibiotics
An article posted recently on HEALTHbeat, an online publication from Harvard Health Publications, noted that in May of 2016, a woman in Pennsylvania became infected with a form of E.coli infection resistant to the drug colistin, which is usually reserved for infections that don’t respond to the strongest antibiotics. Scientists from the Multidrug Resistant Organism Repository and Surveillance Network (MSRN) at the Walter Reed Institute of Research (WRAIR) showed that a gene called MCR-1 was responsible for the bacteria’s resistance to colistin. MCR-1 is found on a plasmid, which is a portable piece of DNA that can replicate on its own. The presence of MCR-1 means that the bacteria can develop a resistance to colistin, weakening its effectiveness as a treatment. “This development is distressing because colistin is a drug that most doctors will never need to use but it’s nice to have in your back pocket, just in case,” says John Ross, M.D., an assistant professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School. “If there is a potential that bacteria can become resistance to colistin, it’s kind of like losing your security blanket.” (continued on page15)
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THE JOURNAL OF THE PHILADELPHIA COUNTY DENTAL SOCIETY
Health Watch (cont’d.) Superbugs (cont’d.)
As more cases of bacteria with MCR-1 are discovered around the globe, many doctors are concerned that this gene could transfer to a type of bacteria known as carbapenem-resistant bacteria, or CRE. When an infection doesn’t respond to carbapenem, doctors normally use colistin. But if a MCR1 transfers to CRE bacteria, then these bacteria would be resistant to both carbapenem and colistin, says Dr. Ross. If this happens, CRE would become a superbug – it would be completely resistant to all forms of antibiotics. Although the creation of a CRE superbug would cause problems in hospitals where bacterial infections are more common, CRE infection is rare, with fewer than 600 reported cases each year.
The appearance of super bugs doesn’t mean that healthy people will suddenly become infected with different types of untreatable infections. The threat of antibiotic resistance is much larger in hospital settings, especially in people who are recovering from surgery or have weakened immune systems. Falling short of creating brand-new medicines to treat bacterial infections, doctors urge patients to take antibiotics only when absolutely necessary. “Often times people with an infection will feel better without antibiotics, and antibiotics, in a lot of cases, won’t speed up the process of getting better,” says Dr. Ross. “We need to have a conversation about how we can limit antibiotic use as a society as a whole.”
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THE JOURNAL OF THE PHILADELPHIA COUNTY DENTAL SOCIETY
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Dental Dates The JOURNAL welcomes news concerning activities of your dental study club or other bona fide dental associations. Send information (as formatted below) to the Philadelphia County Dental Society via email: philcodent@aol.com or fax: 215-925-6998. Deadline for publication is the first of the month prior to publication (December 1 for January/February/March issue), and information will be published on a space-available basis.
OCTOBER 5
NE DENTAL IMPLANT/PERIODONTAL PROSTHESIS STUDY CLUB – Dinner meeting at the Buck Hotel, Feasterville, at 6:00 p.m., featuring Alfonso F. Pineyro, D.D.S., Prosthetic, Implant and Restorative Dentistry, Bellevue and Monroe, WA, “Restoratively Driven Implant Failures.” For information, contact Paula Chernoff at 215-677-8686 or email at pchernoff@padentalimplants.com
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CONTINUING EDUCATION FOR DENTAL EXCELLENCE – R.D.H./E.F.D.A. invited also. Joint program in Northeast – 6:30 p.m. Dinner meeting (Gallo’s Restaurant) featuring Samuel B. Low, D.D.S., M.S. Med., “The ‘New’ Periodontal Disease: Inflammatory and Risky.” Sponsored in cooperation with Perio Sciences. For information, contact Vickie Fisher at 215-732-4450 or visit www.PhilaPerioImplants.com
20-25
AMERICAN DENTAL ASSOCIATION – 157th Annual Session, Denver, CO. For information, visit the web site at www.ada.org/meeting
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PHILADELPHIA COUNTY DENTAL SOCIETY –Continuing Education Program at the Philadelphia Hilton Hotel, City Avenue, featuring John Nadeau, “Dental Sleep Medicine Seminar.” Register online at www.philcodent.org
NOVEMBER 2
NE DENTAL IMPLANT/PERIODONTAL PROSTHESIS STUDY CLUB – Dinner meeting at the Buck Hotel, Feasterville, at 6:00 p.m., featuring Markus B. Blatz, D.M.D., Ph.D., Professor of Restorative Dentistry, Chair. Dept. of Preventive & Restorative Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, “The Ceramic Update in Esthetic Dentistry.” For information, contact Paula Chernoff at 215-677-8686 or email at pchernoff@padentalimplants.com
9
CONTINUING EDUCATION FOR DENTAL EXCELLENCE – Joint program in Northeast – 6:30 p.m. Dinner meeting (Gallo’s Restaurant) featuring Howard Fraiman, D.M.D., topic to be announced. Sponsored in cooperation with NobelBiocare. For information, contact Vickie Fisher at 215-732-4450 or visit www.PhilaPerioImplants.com
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CENTER CITY STUDY CLUB – Dinner Meeting at Estia Restaurant, at 6:00 p.m., featuring Leslie Stone Hirsh, D.D.S., “Esthetics: An Interdisciplinary Approach.” For information, contact Diane Fosbenner at 215-985-4337 or prc@laudenbach.com or visit www.laudenbach.com
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GREATER PHILADELPHIA DENTAL HYGIENE STUDY CLUB – 6 to 9 p.m. Featuring Sheryl Radin, D.D.S. and Ross Levine, D.M.D., “Pediatric Dentistry from A to T.” For information, contact Maggie Rutherford, R.D.H. at mrutherford@padentalimplants.com
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CONTINUING EDUCATION FOR DENTAL EXCELLENCE – for R.D.H. – (Saturday) 8 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., featuring Tom Viola, “Making Anesthesia Stick.” For information, Vickie.LocustStPerio@gmail.com
27 – Dec. 2 GREATER NEW YORK DENTAL MEETING – Jacob Javits Convention Center, New York. Meeting: November 27 to December 2; Exhibits: November 29 to December 2. For information, visit www.gnym.com or call 212-398-6922.
DECEMBER 6
CONTINUING EDUCATION FOR DENTAL EXCELLENCE – R.D.H./E.F.D.A. invited also. Center City – 6:30 p.m. Dinner meeting (Doubletree Hotel) featuring Michele Dimaina, D.M.D., “Optimizing Hygiene, Regenerative and Implant Dentistry in the Everyday Clinical Practice.” Sponsored in cooperation with Straumann. For information, contact Vickie Fisher at 215-732-4450 or visit www.PhilaPerioImplants.com
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CONTINUING EDUCATION FOR DENTAL EXCELLENCE – R.D.H./E.F.D.A. invited also. Northeast – 6:30 p.m. Dinner meeting (Gallo’s Restaurant) featuring Michele Dimaina, D.M.D., “Optimizing Hygiene, Regenerative and Implant Dentistry in the Everyday Clinical Practice.” Sponsored in cooperation with Straumann. For information, contact Vickie Fisher at 215-732-4450 or visit www.PhilaPerioImplants.com (continued on page 17)
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THE JOURNAL OF THE PHILADELPHIA COUNTY DENTAL SOCIETY
Dental Dates (cont’d.) JANUARY 2017 24
24
CENTER CITY STUDY CLUB – Dinner Meeting at Estia Restaurant, at 6:00 p.m., featuring Michael Bergler, C.D.T., M.D.T., “3D Design--3D Planning and Material Selection in Dental Technology--What it the status?" For information, contact Diane Fosbenner at 215-985-4337 or prc@laudenbach.com or www.laudenbach.com PHILADELPHIA COUNTY DENTAL SOCIETY – Installation of Officers, Meeting of Board of Governors. 6:30 p.m. at the Society’s Executive Office.
FEBRUARY MARCH 22
PHILADELPHIA COUNTY DENTAL SOCIETY – Continuing Education Program at the Hilton Philadelphia City Avenue Hotel. A.M. Session: PDA’s Program: Recognition and Reporting Child Abuse for Dental Professionals; P.M. Session: to be announced; 3:45 P.M.: CPR Recertification. Register online at www.philcodent.org
APRIL 4
CENTER CITY STUDY CLUB – Dinner Meeting at Estia Restaurant, at 6:00 p.m., featuring Tejjy Thomas, D.M.D., “Noninvasively Enhancing Orthodontic Tooth Movement.” For information, contact Diane Fosbenner at 215-985-4337 or prc@laudenbach.com or www.laudenbach.com
21-22
PENNSYLVANIA’S DENTAL MEETING – Annual Meeting of the Pennsylvania Dental Association, Hotel Hershey, Hershey, PA. For information contact Rebecca Von Nieda at rvn@padental.org
MAY 19
PHILADELPHIA COUNTY DENTAL SOCIETY – Continuing Education Program at the Hilton Philadelphia City Avenue Hotel. Dr. Daniel H. Ward: Less is More – Incorporating Minimally Invasive Techniques into Your Office Treatment Protocols (in cooperation with The Catapult Group). Register online at www.philcodent.org
JUNE 6
PENNSYLVANIA DENTAL ASSOCIATION – Day on the Hill, Harrisburg, PA. Visit with you legislators and their staff. For information, visit padental.org
JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER 13
PHILADELPHIA COUNTY DENTAL SOCIETY – Continuing Education Program at the Hilton Philadelphia City Avenue Hotel. Dr. Jeffrey W. Horowitz: I’ve Got a Few Tricks up My Sleeve! Tips to Make Everyday Procedures a Little Bit Easier (in cooperation with The Catapult Group). Register online at www.philcodent.org
OCTOBER NOVEMBER 10
PHILADELPHIA COUNTY DENTAL SOCIETY – Continuing Education Program at the Hilton Philadelphia City Avenue Hotel. Speaker and topic to be announced. Register online at www.philcodent.org
DECEMBER
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The 2016 Liberty Continuing Education Series Final program for 2016: CE 95 – Wednesday, October 26, 2016 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. – Dental Sleep Medicine Seminar – presented in cooperation with Sleep Group Solutions –an analysis of patients' symptoms and how to screen for them, scripts for an effective patient interview, how to motivate the dental team to engage patients on the subject, the morphology of the airway, comorbidities to look out for, the effects to the systemic organs, the reimbursement strategy and insurance billing using dental and medical coding. The program incorporates an interactive hands-on approach with the attendees changing roles as simulated patients and providers. Diagnostic equipment and intra-oral sleep appliances will be provided for demonstration. The objectives of this program will be to: 1) provide attendees with the knowledge of patient screening, diagnosis and treatment modalities for Obstructive Sleep Apnea; 2) enable attendees to have a hands-on experience with OSA diagnostic equipment; 3) encourage and enable the continuation of education in sleep dysfunction in order to provide service to the millions of sleep apnea sufferers. (7 CE credits)
Participating Partners include: Garfield Refining; PDAIS; PNC Bank; The Insurance Agency for Dentists. Visit the web site at www.philcodent.org for updates on the list of participating partners.
Register online at www.philcodent.org/members/programs.aspx
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THE JOURNAL OF THE PHILADELPHIA COUNTY DENTAL SOCIETY
Classified Ads Classified Advertisement Policy. The Society reserves the right to accept, decline or withdraw classified advertisements at its discretion. The Society believes the advertisements that appear in these columns are from reputable sources; the Society neither investigates the offers being made nor assumes any responsibilities concerning them. Every precaution is taken to avoid mistakes, but responsibility cannot be accepted for clerical or printer’s errors. Requests to run advertisements “until further notice” cannot be accepted; the advertiser is responsible for renewals. Names of box number advertisers cannot be revealed. The JOURNAL reserves the right to edit copy of classified advertisements. Classified ads will not be taken over the telephone. HOMEBOUND PATIENTS NEED CARE: If you have time in your schedule, why not consider providing care to homebound patients? Many patients need dental care, and most pay for the services. For more information, call Dr. Glenn Goodhart at 215-635-0200. OPPORTUNITY AVAILABLE – Orthodontist needed for a new private non corporate PPO/FFS dental office that focuses on building long-term relationships. Must be a licensed dentist with a specialty certificate. Located in Downingtown, PA 19335 right across from the Thorndale train stop. This is a very convenient location if you live along the Paoli Thorndale R5 Septa line or live in Center City, Philadelphia. You could take the train to work. Please email resume to Christina@ChesterCountyDentalArts.com PRACTICE TRANSITIONS – We specialize in Practice Sales, Appraisals and Partnership Arrangements. Ask about our free guides for Sellers and Buyers. For information on services and listings, contact Philip Cooper, D.M.D., M.B.A., American Practice Consultants, toll free 1800-400-8550, or www.ameriprac.com MARYLAND PRACTICES FOR SALE – Pediatric specialty – Modern digital grossing $ 1.5 M with high net. Long time staff, High recall practice. Also HOWARD COUNTY part-time digital office great for starter or
specialist. GLEN BURNIE – 4 ops health issues must sell. POLCARI ASSOCIATES, Ltd. 1-800-544-1297. info@polcariassociates.com OPPORTUNITY AVAILABLE – FEASTERVILLE, PA Quality, well maintained dental practice located on ground level street front in a very vibrant area, offering sharing office space or a merger with an existing part-time quality practice. All proposals will be considered. Please call, text or email Dr. Goldin 215-350-9589 or www.sofiagoldin.dentist FOR SALE – Dental practice with great potential. The University City area of Philadelphia is booming. Universities and hospitals are expanding and new luxury apartment buildings are going up. This is one of the last individually owned Dental Practices in the area. Already paperless with digital x-rays. Call Henry Lazarus at 215382-5126 or email: hlazar@verizon.net DENTAPPRAISE™ NATIONWIDE DENTAL PRACTICE APPRAISALS since 1992. Pre-sale, purchase, estate, mediation. “Ballpark Edition” approximate estimate, “Premier Edition” comprehensive market value. Information brochure: POLCARI ASSOCIATES, Ltd. 1800-544-1297 or info@polcariassociates.com
THE JOURNAL OF THE PHILADELPHIA COUNTY DENTAL SOCIETY
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Workplace Tips Ragan Communications, publisher of corporate communications, public relations and leadership development newsletters, as well as other sources offer the following workplace tips through several of its online publications. Although targeted to corporate environment, these can be adapted for your practice and your personal life.
Succeed with Kindness
Nice people can finish first. The key is knowing how to use kindness to your advantage. Practice these helpful habits: 6Ybcd be kind to yourself. You’ll find being nice to others easier if you build your self-respect with positive thoughts about your personality and achievements. DbUQd UfUbi_^U gYdX bUc`USd Don’t worry about who’s on top. Treat everyone the way you want to be treated, regardless of their position or job title. CQi ^_ gXU^ ^USUccQbi You can’t do everything. But when you do say no, be polite and positive. @\Q^d cUUTc _V [Y^T^Ucc Do something nice every day even when your kindness may not have an immediate payoff.
Help All Team Members Fit In
When you’re the leader of a team, you need everyone to feel comfortable with each other in order for each team member to do his or her best. How can you help? Try these tips: 9^S\eTU UfUbiR_Ti Y^ Q\\ dUQm activities. Workers who don’t participate in parties, team luncheons, or other team functions may feel uninvited or unwanted. Make sure every team member feels welcome to attend all team activities. 4_^µd W_ccY` Refuse to take part in criticizing team members behind their backs. Because you can never tell where your words might go, be sure that nothing you say about people shows them any disrespect. C`UQ[ _ed Groups sometimes ignore people because leaving them out is easier than confronting the] _^ Q^ YcceU 9V Q `Ubc_^ Yc T_Y^W c_]UdXY^W d_ alienate the team, address the problem directly for everyone’s sake: “The way you talk to yourself when you work makes it difficult for me to concentrate.” Help the team member find alternative behaviors, and be sure to thank the person for making an effort to change. Also, listen to suggestions from others about changes you might need to make. BUS_W^YjU S_^dbYRedY_^c ^_d `Ubc_^Q\YdYUc Be sure you recognize team members for their work, not for how much fun they are to work with. WXWXWXWXWXWXWXWXWXWX
My experience has been that work is almost the best way to pull oneself out of the depths.
º Eleanor Roosevelt (1884-1962)
6Ybcd <QTi _V dXU E C 1933-1945), diplomat & activist WXWXWXWXWXWXWXWXWXWX
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THE JOURNAL OF THE PHILADELPHIA COUNTY DENTAL SOCIETY
A Happy Work “Family”
Your co-workers aren’t your family, but the same rules that ensure a warm relationship with family members can apply to the workplace CeSX as: BUc`USd R_e^TQbYUc E^TUbcdQ^T dXQd `U_`\U have their own concepts of personal space and privacy. Just as you wouldn’t go into your sister’s room without knocking, don’t open someone’s desk gYdX_ed `Ub]YccY_^ CdQi _ed _V i_eb S_\\UQWeUcµ personal lives, and don’t share too much of your own. ;UU` `b_]YcUc 6Q]Y\i ]U]RUbc Q^T S_workers alike want to know they can depend on i_e c_ T_^µd ]Q[U S_]]Yd]U^dc i_e SQ^µd [UU` 9V something prevents you from doing what you’ve promised, be honest and explain at once. @Qi QddU^dY_^ d_ `U_`\U No one likes to be ignored, whether it’s by your father reading the paper while you’re trying to talk or a co-worker checking his or her smartphone during a meeting. Give people your full attention. Eliminate distractions. This shows you respect their time and intelligence.
Help with Exit Interviews
Exit interviews may not be the most enjoyable part of the job, but they are a useful opportunity to get an honest, unvarnished view of your organization. Here are some pertinent questions that may help you prevent current employees from jumping ship as well: GXQd VQSd_bc SQecUT i_e d_ QSSU`d Q Z_R gYdX ec here? 4YT Q^i _V dXUcU VQSd_bc SXQ^WU Qc i_e g_b[UT here? 8_g Q``b_`bYQdU Q^T ecUVe\ gQc dXU dbQY^Y^W you received? What kind of training would have been more valuable? GXQd Yc i_eb _`Y^Y_^ _V dXU supervision you encountered here? 8_g g_e\T i_e TUcSbYRU ]_bQ\U Y^ this work group? 8_g T_Uc i_eb ^Ug `_cYdY_^ TYVVUb Vb_] i_eb Z_R here? What are the differences between that organization and this one? GXi TYT i_e TUSYTU d_ \__[ V_b Q ^Ug Z_R? (Or, why did you consider an offer from outside?) 8_g Y]`_bdQ^d gUbU `Qi Q^T RU^UVYdc Y^ i_eb decision to leave?
Am Pract Philad Cty
10/2/12
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DENTAL PRACTICE SALES
Ask About Our
FREE GUIDES For Sellers & Buyers!
Want to Know More? We Can Guide You. American Practice Consultants, a full service Dental Practice Broker & Appraiser, was founded in 1985 by Philip A. Cooper, D.M.D., M.B.A. to provide a range of transition services to dentists who are selling or buying a practice.
Let Us Expertly Guide You Through: • • • • •
VALUATION • MARKETING NEGOTIATION • CONTRACT REVIEW FINANCING • MINIMIZING TAXES TRANSITION PLANNING WITH PATIENTS & STAFF AND SO MUCH MORE!
www.ameriprac.com
Philip A. Cooper, D.M.D., M.B.A. 704 East Main Street, Suite D • Moorestown, New Jersey 08057 856-234-3536 • 800-400-8550 • cooper@ameriprac.com
PCDS Liberty Continuing Education Dates for 2017 Mark your calendar for the following dates and watch your mail in January for the reservation form (or register online after January 9 at www.philcodent.org
Wednesday, March 22 Morning Session: PDA Program: Child Abuse Recognition & Reporting for Dental Professionals Afternoon Session: To be announced (Plus CPR recertification at conclusion of afternoon session) Friday, May 19 Dr. Daniel H. Ward: Less is More – Incorporating Minimally Invasive Techniques into Your Office Treatment Protocols (in cooperation with The Catapult Group) Wednesday, September 13 Dr. Jeffrey W. Horowitz: I’ve Got a Few Tricks up My Sleeve! Tips to Make Everyday Procedures a Little Bit Easier (in cooperation with The Catapult Group) Friday, November 10 – Speaker/topic to be announced Mark Your Calendar Now & Plan to Attend PCDS Continuing Education Convenient Relevant Affordable
Helping you meet your legal and ethical responsibilities.