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I N S U A ..... NCE

Fa~

THE

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OFFICERS President: Wallace L. Huff, Blacksburg President Elect: Charles L. Cuttino III, Richmond Immediate Past President: William H. Allison, Warrenton Secretary- Treasurer: Thomas S. Cooke III, Sandston Executive Director: William E. Zepp, CAE P.O. Box 6906, Richmond, 23230-0906 EXECUTIVE COUNCIL Includes officers and councilors listed and: David C. Anderson, Alexandria -Vice Chairman Gus C. Vlahos, Dublin Richard H. Wood, Richmond Andrew J. Zimmer, Norfolk Ex Officio Members: Parliamentarian: Emory R. Thomas, Richmond Editor: Leslie S. Webb, Jr., Richmond Speaker of the House: D. Christopher Hamlin, Norfolk Dean, MCV School of Dentistry: Lindsay M. Hunt, Jr., Richmond

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COUNCILORS I Edward J. Weisberg, Norfolk II Bruce R. DeGinder, Williamsburg III Harold J. Neal, Jr., Emporia IV James R. Lance, Richmond V Daniel E. Grabeel, Lynchburg- Chairman VI Ronnie L. Brown, Abingdon VII William J. Viglio l1e, Charlottesville VIII Rodney J. Klima, Burke

SOCIETY

PRESIDENT

SECRETARY

PATIENT RELATIONS

TIdewater, I

James W. Baker 2995 Churchland Blvd Chesapeake, VA 23321

Ralph Howell, Jr. 102 Western Avenue Suffolk, VA 23434-4434

James H. Nottingham, Jr. 142 W. York St, Ste 705 Norfolk, VA 2351 0

Peninsula, II

Guy G. Levy 367 Denbigh Blvd Newport News, VA 23608

Wayne E."AJ" Booker 6632 Geo Wa Mem Hwy Grafton, VA 23692

Lawrence A. Warren 106 Yorktown Road Tabb, VA 23693

John M. Bass 212 N. Mecklenburg Ave South Hill, VA 23970

Scott E. Gerard 9401 Courthouse Road Chesterfield, VA 23832

Gary R. Hartwell P.O. Box 980566 Richmond, VA 23298

Charles E. Gaskins III 703 N. Courthouse Rd Ste 201 Richmond, VA 23236

Frank C. Crist, Jr. 8116 TImberlake Road Lynchburg, VA 24502

Gregory T. Gendron 7 Cleveland Avenue Martinsville, VA 24112

Southwest, VI

William B. Thompson P. O. Box 318 Chilhowie, VA 24318

Dana Chamberlain 645 Park Blvd. Marion, VA 24354

Shenandoah Valley, VII

Gerald J. Brown 1871 Amherst Street Winchester, VA 22601

J. Ted Sherwin 111 Spicers Mill Road Orange, VA 22960

Alan Robbins P.O. Box 602 TImberville, VA 22853

Northern Virginia, VIII

Kirk M. Norbo 6200 Wilson Blvd, #114 Falls Church, VA 22044

Neil J. Small 9940 Main Street Fairfax, VA 22031

-e

Southside, III

Richmond, IV

Piedmont, V

Jqhn R. Ragsdale III . . 9Holly Hill Drive p~tersburg, VA 23805 William J. Redwine

:~808 .Stonernan Road Richmond, VA 23228 ··.Frank C. Crist, Jr. '811e TImberlake Road ,.. t.ynchburg, VA 24502 t"<

.PaulT. Umstott

. 300 W Valley Street

Abingdon, VA 24210

, :~

Leslie S. Webb, Jr., Editor

1. Bernard I. Einhorn 2. A. J. Booker 3. H. Reed Boyd III

\.fJilliEU:l

E. Zepp. C,L\E business rViarlag2!

D,SSOCIA.Tt:: t:D1TORS 4 Charles E. Gaskins III 5 Edwaro F Snyder" 6. William S. Thompson

October - December 1997

7. Hebecca Scanga Swett 8. Melanie R Love MeV Thomas Burke

Number 4

TABLE OF CONTENTS 5 6 7 8 9 10 13 14 15 16 19 21 27 27 31 32 32 34 43 44 48 51

Editorial Letters to the Editor Message From the President â&#x20AC;˘ Svirsky On Infection Control 1997 President's Address President Elect's Address From the Executive Director 1998 General Assembly Preview Must A Dentist Be A Juror? Adjudication of Dental Insurance Claims Amalgam Waste Management for the Dental Offices House of Delegates Actions In Brief Executive Council Actions in Brief Minutes of the 128th Annual Business Meeting Membership Benefit Highlights: Financial Services VDA News Donated Dental Services Independent Practice Associations (IPAs) Upcoming Continuing Education Component News & Specialty Notes Classified Advertising Statement of Ownership

COVER: Rappahannock River Photo by Ann Purcell courtesy of Virginia Tourism Corporation PUBLICATION TEMPLATE & TYPESETTING: C:\Change

THE VIRGINIA DENTAL JOURNAL (ISSN 0049 6472) is published quarterly (January-March, April-June, July-September, October-December)

by the Virginia Dental Association, 5006 Monument Avenue, PO Box 6906. Richmond, Virginia 23230-0906, Telephone (804)358-4927

SUBSCRIPTION RATES: Annual: Members, $6.00. Others $12.00 in U.S., $24.00 Outside U.S Single copy: $6.00.

Second class postage paid at Richmond, Virginia. Copyright Virginia Dental Association 1996

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Virginia Dental Journal, PO Box 6906, Richmond, VA 23230-0906.

MANUSCRIPT AND COMMUNICATION for publications Editor, PO Box 6906, Richmond, VA 23230-0906

ADVERTISING COpy, insertion orders, contracts and related information: Business Manager, PO Box 6906, Richmond, VA 23230-0906.

VIRGINIA

JOURNAL

EDITORIAL

BOARD

Ralph L. Anderson James R. Batten Cramer L. Boswell James H. Butler Gilbert L. Button Charles L. Cutttno}II, Frank H. Farrlngton. ;, Barry I. Griffi'1 .. "i't',:, Jeffrey L. HUd~in,~'". Wallace L.Huff·f;l,;;~,.; Lindsay ~~.)Bd·"\ Thomas.E...~.:· James R~.tiii2 J

DanieIM~~ ' •.•.. r. .. "::,.,,

Travis •T:, Ratte W. B~;x:~e' .. Lisa Sa" David..S~'i Haryey''''K Jal11es~ . HadaN:"

VDA COMMITTEE CHAIRMEN Annual Meeting Bruce R. Hutchison

Direct Reimbursement Benita A. Miller

Auxiliary Education & Relations

T. Andrew Thompson

Environmental Health and Safety Paul F. Supan

Budget and Financial Investments Raymond L. Meade

History and Necrology

French H. Moore III

Cancer and Hospital Dental Service James A. Pel!

Institutional Affairs

Elizabeth A. Bernhard

Caring Dentists Harry D. Simpson, Jr.

Journal Staff

Leslie S. Webb, Jr.

Constitution and Bylaws/Nominating William H. Allison

Legislative

T. Wayne Mostiler

Dental Benefits Programs Fred A. Coots, Jr.

Membership

H. Reed Boyd III

Dental Delivery for the Special Needs Patient New Dentist

Al J. Stenger Carolyn C. Herring

~-:~"c~r:A ';i1'~""

JohI16~'

Dental Health and Public Information AI J. Rizkalla

Peer Review and Patient Relations Neil J. Small

Dental Practice Regulation Albert L. Payne

Planning

William H. Allison

"'!,~,..~~.,,~

Trade and Laboratory Relations L. Nance, Jr.

Search Committee for VA Board William H. Allison

Ron~ld'

DOMg!~

Roger.

Relief Foundation Scott H. Francis

/1998, San Francisco, CA ?98) M. Joan Gillespie (2000) P999) Leslie S. Webb, Jr. (2000) 998 ) Richard D. Wilson (1999)

:;z(1

\~''!'.

Thomas S. Cooke III (1999) Lindsay M. Hunt, Jr. (1999) Andrew J. Zimmer (1999)

4 Virginia

Denta.!.J

[ EDITORIAL]]

I"~

The founding fathers of organized dentistry devised a very effective structure using the tripartite system. Dentistry and its voice could be active at the local (component), state (constituent society) and national levels (ADA). Being able to pass information and support up and down this structure created a dynamic, effective organization. However, to me, the real impetus behind organized dentistry is the fact that it is driven by volunteer dentists at all three levels of the tripartite structure. It is quite amazing that a diverse group of dentists from all types of training, practice situations and experiences contribute so much of their time without financial gain to run our organization through our boards, councils, commissions, committees, and public service projects. Our dues are then freed to provide staff and support to this army of volunteer dentists who daily provide leadership, staff committees, deal with issues impacting all of us, work on projects, and promote the profession. Even the individual dentist in his or her office talking with patients about issues affecting dentistry contributes to this volunteer effort. We are fortunate to have a profession with so many members willing to volunteer to make a differÂ ence to dentistry and the public we serve. Volunteerism is truly the strength of organized dentistry.

Â§

Dr. Leslie S. Webb, Jr. Editor

-'; 'c "c; o

The eight outgoing Component Presidents were recognized durinq the Annual Business Meeting, Pictured are (l-r): Wayne Mostiler (1): Ted Sherwin (7); Bruce Hutchison (8); Jeff Kenney (2); Benita Miller (4): Jim Evans (5); Roger Palmer (3); and David Stepp (6),

Virginia Dental Journal 5

[ LETTERS TO THE EDITOR October 2, 1997 Dear Dr. Webb, Public thanks need to be heaped upon the many dedicated members of the House of Delegates who boldly shouldered the responsibility of crafting the policies, by-laws, and future of the VDA at the annual meeting. To all members of the Executive Councn, House of Delegates and VDA staff who endured a very late day on Sunday, September 28 in Roanoke, your show of enthusiasm for our profession made me proud to have the opportunity to assist in the process. My heros are as follows:

VDA Staff:

The Crendentials Committee:

Bonnie Anderson Connie Jungmann Bill Zepp Linda Gilliam Lisa Finnerty Liz Keith Tanya Moore

Dr. Ralph Howell, Chair-1 Dr. Cleve Porter-5 Dr. Mike Miller-4 Dr. Reed Boyd-3 Dr. Ed Bernier-8

16th District Trustee Greg Chadwick and VDA Speaker of the House Christy Hamlin lead the applause for the introduction of President Elect Wallace Huff during the Opening Session of the VDA Annual Meeting.

The Reference Committees BUdget & Fiscal Affairs:

Public Affairs:

Dr. Kim Swanson, Chair-1 Dr. James Krochmal-1 Dr. Sam Galstan-3 Dr. Rebecca Swett-7 Dr. Kirk Norbo-8

Dr. Dennis Cleckner, Chair-1 Dr. AI Stenger-4 (reporting chair) Dr. Carolyn Herring-7 Dr. Tim Russell-8 Dr. Roger Palmer-3

Professional Affairs:

President's Address and Administrative Matters:

Dr. Scott Francis, Chair-2 Dr. Charles Gaskins-4 Dr. Frank Crist-5 Dr. Lillian Thompson-6 Dr. Bruce Hutchison-8

Dr. Pat Dolan, Chair-8 Dr. Stan Thompkins-1 Dr. Gary Riggs-2 Dr. James Evans-5 Dr. Dana Chamberlain-6

Dr. Emory Thomas, parliamentarian, spent hours refining the procedural concepts of the reference committee reports to make the business of the House comprehensible.

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Christy Christopher Hamlin, DD.S.

6 Virginia Dental Journal

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Looking for info on upcoming CE courses? What's happening at the VDA?

• Want to learn more about Direct Reimbursement?

Those members of the VDA who have missed the opportunity to serve as a participant at this level would be shocked to learn of the • energy this group has for their association and their profession. It is : definitely a membership benefit all dentists in the state will enjoy. I guarantee it! Please join me in giving a big round of applause and thanks to all your peers who are "i!ctiv~" members in the VDA. Sincerely,

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Visit the VDA's website for answers to these questions... and much, much more.

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www.vadental.org

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r~~ssA9E FROM THE PRESIDENT!

k has passed since I became your President. As the deadline for the next Only onehweJDA journal approaches, we have just concluded the 128th Annual Meeting of issue of.t .e Dental Association at the Hotel Roanoke & Conference Center (September 24Â the Vlrgml~ Roanoke, Virginia. 28, 1997) In .

the fact that the ADA's annual session is being held in Washington, D.C.,

conslden~~22 1997, our annual meeting was a success in every way. I want to thank our Executive Director, octobezr1 ;n d the VDA staff for their hard work and commitment in making this one of the VDA's outstanding Mr. Bill epp, . S annual meeting . . With the

orn ing election, recent reports indicate that spending in this year's race for Governor, Lieutenant

U~torney General and the 100 seats of the House of Delegates will be at an all time high. We know

Governo~, tion will continue to propose threats to dentistry and to our patients' welfare. It is only through our PAC that leghlsta .e gain access to the political arena and are able to get our issues on the table so that our views can funds taw be heard. are contacted by your VADPAC committee, I would ask you to consider becoming a member of the When you Club. This higher level of giving will certainly be a step toward greater political activism for dentistry. Governors â&#x20AC;˘ _H much is it worth to you to preserve your right to treat your patients in a proper and caring manner? I ask ch is it worth to be able to exercise your professional judgment, based upon your clinical experience How m.uc tific knowledge without being hindered by encumbered regulations that constantly interrupt and and scren our practice? The election season is upon us now and the legislation session begins soon. Only by ha~per Y tronq pAC can we be a significant player in state politics, which affects the way we practice dentistry. having a s have not already done so, I would encourage each of you to join VADPAC-ADPAC. In addition, we must If y~u ally increase the commitment of our members to the political process by expanding the grassroots ~~~gl~aUm in Virginia. Making our case to our legislators at the state and national level will be much more difficult without a strong pAC.

raphrase an editorial I read recently by Dr. Michael Rainwater from Georgia, "when they legislated how patients, I didn't object because I didn't treat Medicaid patients.

d~~t~sts should treat Medicaid

When they legislated how to treat Managed Care patients, I didn't speak out because I didn't do Managed Care patients. When they legislated how to treat Insurance patients, I didn't worry because I didn't see that many Insurance patients. When they legislated how to treat Fee-For-Service patients, I objected vigorously. But there was no one else to object with me." Wallace L. Huff

Virginia Dental Journal 7

[~~~SVIRSKY ON I~FECTION CONTROL

This infection control column can be reviewed and discussed in the office and records of the meeting should be kept with each employee's training records for three years. Provider Responsibility During Patient Contact During the clinical treatment period the risk of contami足 nation is greatest. It is due to numerous, varied proce足 dures which must be done, and the many instruments and equipment required. Therefore, the health care provider must be aware of pathways of possible con足 tamination and difficulty which may be encountered to block those pathways. The following are guidelines which will be helpful. A. Only sterile or disposable items needed for treatment are placed on the bracket table. Any unnecessary items should be removed from the immediate treatment area, including charts, forms, pens, etc.

B. Gloves, mask and eye protection (personal protective equipment) are donned, and once the procedure is started, they are NOT to be removed. If a puncture occurs in a glove, it should be removed immediately, the exposed skin surface washed, and a new glove placed. Most important: If skin is punctured by a needle stick, curette or other contaminated sharp, than an Incident Report MUST be completed. If there is no break in the skin then an Incident Report does not need to be filed. C. All health care providers must be aware of sharp instruments when working on patients and cleaning the instruments and operatory following a procedure. Appropriate work-practice control for employee safety is never to pass a needle after it has been used on a patient. The care provider who gives the injection is responsible for recapping the needle and protecting the other employees from injury. Use a one-handed scoop technique or a recapping device to recap your needles.

patient do the charting, or have a voice activated com足 puter or dictation machine from which the information can be entered into the chart at the conclusion of the visit or at a later time by the front office staff. These methods protect the front office employees from exposure to contaminated material. E. If a health care provider must leave the treatment area for any reason prior to completion of treatment, remove the gloves and wash hands. Place on a new pair of gloves on your return. If taking a phone call or taking a photo or radiograph, over gloves may be used. Always wash hands prior to putting on a new pair of gloves or after removing a contaminated pair. Once the procedure/ patient treatment is completed, keep gloves on until all clean-up is completed. If dealing with the chance of puncture, it is best to remove gloves, wash hands and use heavy duty utility gloves through the clean-up. The emphasis of Infection Control and Work Practice Safety Control is to do what is necessary to prevent the spread of pathogens and cross contamination by intraoral fluids. If you have any questions regarding infection control, OSHA, sharp instrument injuries, or infectious diseases, please send them to me at the followinq address. John A. Svirsky, D.D.S., M.Ed. Department of Oral Pathology Post Office Box 980566 Richmond, Virginia 23298 Phone (804) 828-1778 or Fax (804) 828-6234

D. Do not touch the record with contaminated gloves. If an entry has to be made in the record during treatment, an appropriate barrier must be used on the pen and over the portion of the record that the contaminated glove touches. Plastic over gloves can be slipped on to provide a barrier and not contaminate the chart. It is best to either fill out the chart following completion of the procedure, have another person not working on the

Po \/irnini::l

Dental Journal

[[

PRESIDENTS ADDRESS

_JI

As presented by Dr. William H. Allison

to the

VIRGINIA DENTAL ASSOCIATION

128TH ANNUAL MEETING

SEPTEMBER 25, 1997

Our Constitution and Bylaws require ~e to make a ort on the activities of the Association to the House ~~PDelegates at this Annual Meeting: I thank you for being here and for being so kind to listen. This has been a good year for the VDA - no, I'll . change that - it has been a great year. Y?ur Execu~lve Committee has tried to anticipate what Will happen In our future and to be resilient when the unexpected happen. To our credit we have not had a Sunbeam episode like our AMA colleagues! To report on some of the major efforts: Direct Reimbursemen't is in high gear. Benefit Admin istration currently administers 15 DR plans for Virginia based employees covering 1381 people. There are five other DR plans self-administered covering 600 people. The recent move of the Wachovia Bank into Virginia with the purchase of Central Fidelity and Jefferson Banks will be an added boost because Wachovia Bank is a strong proponent of DR. The ADA will continue its national advertising blitz through out the fall, hitting such business publications as Employee Benefit News, Human Resource Executive, Business Insurance, HR Magazine, Investors Busi ness Daily, Nations Business, and the Wall Street Journal. The ADA funnels back all the inquiries from businesses in Virginia to us. I know all of you have been getting health insurance questionnaires from the VDA office and wonder what is happening? Our Virginia Dental Service Corporation is now a qualified insurance broker. We get the profits instead of some other broker firm. The Service Corporation is compiling your answers to the question naire so they can tailor a health plan to best fit the needs of the membership. Other states are already having success. For instance, the North Carolina Dental Association has an excellent program with more than 59% of its members enrolled with an annual return to the Association of more than $600,000. This can work, but we will need your participation. Sitting before me are the leaders of the Dental Association. In order for us to provide the best in services for our members without raising dues - in fact in the future to lower dues - we must think of buying from ourselves.

This year the VADPAC Committee, under the leadership of Dr. AI Griffin, had done an outstanding job in raising funds for our legislative activities. Dr. Griffin has worked closely with Mr. Chuck Duvall, the VDA lobbyist, and Dr. Wayne Mostiler, chairman of the Legislative Committee. This team has given us expert guidance in our political affairs. The administration and coordination of this work have been skillfully managed by Mr. Bill Zepp and Ms. Lisa Finnerty. Since 1996, the Virginia Dental Association has partici pated in the ADA Field Service Program. The goals of this task force chaired by Dr. Bruce DeGinder are to increase the number of new members and decrease non-renewals. The Task Force has developed a number of new strategies and tactics to meet the objectives. The target goal is to add 150 new members by the end of 1997. To date, they have recruited 123 new members. This work will continue into 1998 with final reports at that time. Our success depends upon the work of two forces, our professional staff and our volunteer members. So, I thank - from the bottom of my heart - Mr. Bill Zepp and his outstanding people. Also, I thank you - so many of our dedicated members, the committees, the Executive Council and the Executive Committee for their fine work. In foxhunting we have a saying - when you have a good horse, ride it hard - this is what I have tried to do.

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Dr. Allison receives his Past President's plaque from Trustee Chadwick.

Virainia Dental Journal 9

, -

ADDRESS I; PRESIDENT-ELECT'S __ . . . . . . ~

1 I

I ...J

As Presented by Dr. Wallace L. Huff

to the

VIRGINIA DENTAL ASSOCIATION

128TH ANNUAL MEETING

SEPTEMBER 25, 1997

It is indeed an honor and a privilege for me to follow our President, Dr Will Allison as the next president of the VDA. I would like to commend and thank Will for his leadership this past year. I have really enjoyed working with Will; our Secretary-Trea surer, Dr. Charlie Cuttino; Mr. Bill Zepp, our Executive Director and all the staff at the VDA; Dr. Dan Grabeel, Chairman of the Executive Council; all Council members and each of you. In addition, our lobbyist Mr. Chuck Duvall, who has been a spokesperson for the VDA's legislative and lobbying activities in the General Assembly. "I thank each and all." It's good to be back in Southwest Virginia and at the Hotel Roanoke - "The New Hstel Roanoke." The last annual meeting of the VDA (115th) held at this place (Hotel Roanoke) was in 1984. My good friend and colleague, Dr. Manny Michaels, was the President, Dr. Harry Hodges was the President-Elect and Dr. Don Bentley from Minnesota was the American Dental Association President. This year has an added highlight for me, because our own Dave Whiston will be servinq as the ADA President. When Dave is installed as the ADA President next month in Washing ton D.C. (October 22), it will have been 40 years since the last ADA president was from Virginia, Dr. Harry Lyons. We all know Dave's commitment and dedication to dentistry - his knowledge of the issues and how hard he works for us - and Dave, I along with the membership, pledge to you our own commitment and dedication in helping you attain your goals for the ADA this next year. I thank you for being here today and I thank you for your service. I was talking to a colleague from another state recently and when I informed him I would be installed as the next president of the VDA, he replied - "I thought this Association had standards." Be That As It May' It is my pleasure at this time to present some of the objectives and goals (priorities) of the VDA for the coming year. First, I would like for you to know that I am committed. along with our officers and the VDA staff, to continue all the pro grams that are now in progress. As In the past. one of the continuing challenges to our mem bers now and in the future - is the impact of managed care on the practice of dentistry. All of us are in the same boat, each one of us who has been trained to practice the art of dentistry, have basically the same problems, the same needs, and share many of the same dreams and fears The best ally that we have in dentistry IS our dental association (trrpartite system). and we must realize that only with a united

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front will we be able to Withstand the forces that would make us their servants - as providers of managed care delivery system. That is why Direct Reimbursement remains a priority item Our Association must become proactive with this alternative delivery system for the benefit of the profession. Left unanswered, dentistry will soon become an arm of the insurance industry. So I ask each of you to become knowledgeable about DR to educate your office staff and to help make contact with employers in you localities. Talk to your patients - find out about companies In your area who may be changing their benefit plans and talk to them about DR. We are fortunate in Virginia to have been one of the six states selected to participate in the DR Pilot Program in 1996. Last year the ADA House of Delegates passed a resolution (47H-1996) for a National DR Marketing Campaign for three years at $2.5 million per year. Thirty one states now participate in the national DR program and it is now becoming a significant factor to both large and small businesses across the country. The success of the DR program to this date in Virginia can be attributed to Connie Jungmann, our Assistant Executive Director, who heads the program at the VDA office and Dr. Benita Miller, who chairs the Committee on Direct Reimbursement. I would personally like to extend our thanks to them, along with our benefit consultants, Mr. Jon Swan and Mr. Cork Coyner, for the hard work and tireless effort they have put forth in making DR a factor in the dental market place in Virginia. It is now up to each of us to see that it succeeds, and we can do this if each member of the VDA accepts my challenge of provid ing at least one potential referral to either Connie, Jon or Cork this year. Our own Les Webb has been elected to chair the ADA Council on Dental Benefits Programs and one of the chief priories of the Council is the oversight of the ADA DR program. Les will be an additional asset to the members of the VDA. Another priority item is the Medicaid dental care for children. I feel at this time there is no problem impacting the dental health of the needy children of Virginia, that is greater than our present Medicaid crisis. I cannot think of any greater endeavor to undertake, than to make certain these children have access to quality dental care. Governor Allen says he wants all children in Virginia to have the best education possible and I agree. But I think it is just as important that all children of Virginia have access to dental health. A recent editorial in a local newspaper stated, "Dentists are dropping out of participation in the Medicaid Program faster than they can say open wide." Understand that this is not because the dentists of Virginia have become callous or Insensitive to the needs of the welfare patients in our state. First and foremost dentists are caring people. They desire every person, rich or poor, have access to dental care. There are several reasons which include: (1) inadequate reimbursement. (2) slow Medicaid payments, (3) arbitrary denial. (4) difficulty in treating Medicaid families and (5) low priority given to dental services by Medicaid families. But most of all, dentists cite the states low reimburse ment rate for their services as the primary reason. The reimbursement is on an average 43°0 of the dentist usual and customary rates. By contrast physicians receive on an

0/< of their UCR. (When overhead is taken into average 0 f 91 - 92 a M di id account dentists actually lose money when they treat e .cat

patients.) In the last General Assembly, Senator John Edwards of sponsored a $20 million budget amendment to Roano ke , k it .Increase payments to dentists " but the bi'II did I not ma e I . h h the Senate Finance Committee. Meanwhile, hundreds ~/~i~~inia's Medicaid-eligible children are doing without dental care and that includes important preventive care that could save the taxpayers money in the long run. For example, as it becomes more difficult for the parents of these children to locate a provider, they often give up and the child's dental health is ignored until it reaches the emergency state. The parents then show up at the local hospital emer gency room where the child has to have multiple extractions, under general anesthesia, usually by an oral surgeon, who IS. the only provider available. The cost of the dental care for this child is now driven up many times what it would have cost in an out-patient private dental office. (From a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.) And this does not even address the stress and trauma suffered by the young child patient. Now what is the solution? I think the solution is quiet obvious. The dentists of Virginia led by the VDA must bring this situation to the forefront with our state legislature. I Ask You: Is our State Government completely oblivious to the embar rassment of our Medicaid dental program? Are they unaware of how inaccessible dental care has become to these young patients? Are they aware of the impact on the health of these patients this situation presents? For the first time in many years we seem to have the attention of the Virginia Assembly. The 1997 Budget Act (HB 1600) called for the Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS), to study the access to dental care for the Medicaid recipients. The Williamson Institute at MCV is conducting this study, and I hope that each of you returned the survey that you received, because they need as much adequate data as possible to make the results meaningful. When the results from this survey are available, I have asked our lobbyist, Chuck Duvall, to help prepare an information (fact) sheet on the Medicaid issue and plug in the recommendations from the survey (at least the ones we can support). Then a comprehen sive document will be made available to you, the VDA mem bers to use when contacting your individual legislators.

them, in detail, what your experience has been with the state Medicaid program. Most importantly - let them know that as dentists in Virginia, we are not turning a cold shoulder to the most needy of our state residents and denying them care, but help them understand that to provide care to these patients, we cannot be expected to do so at a fee that is barley half the overhead level of most dental offices. It is only through this organized concerted effort by all members of the VDA, that this will be successful. With the new tax law, there will be more people eligible for Medicaid. This law states that the children of families without health insurance (2X poverty level = $36,000.00) will be eligible for Medicaid. This will only compound the problems that we now have. One of the first things that I will do, as your President, is to seek an appointment with the Medicaid Board to sit down and discuss the problems of dental reimbursement and office overhead.

Membership Recruitment and Retention Remains a Top Priority. Membership recruitment and retention will always be one of the most important issues of the VDA because they relate to everything we do. As our ADA President Elect, Dave Whiston, has alluded to many times - we have to be a member driven organization and that will never change - All issues become membership issues and that will never change. Each dentist must have a sense of belonging to our Associa tion regardless of age, gender, ethnic background or type of practice. We must continually expand the perceived values of membership in order to be successful. We must work together to see that the VDA's market share of member dentists is increased in order that our voices in the legislative arena will have a greater impact on the regulations that are handed down which constantly interrupt and hamper our practice. We need a strong unified membership in dentistry today, perhaps more than any time in our history - and we need the support of every member paying his/her dues - doing their part even when he/she tells us what is wrong with us, this is our strength. We must continually anticipate new member needs and we must be able to demonstrate to them the many benefits of being a member.

Having been raised on a farm, being one of four boys, I am reminded of the words of my father when a crop was nearing time to be harvested, and he would say, "Boys we have to be ready for the Harvest. If we miss the Harvest, we stand to lose the Crop".

The ADA Field Service Program to enhance membership is already in place in Virginia. This task force, chaired by Dr. Bruce DeGinder, is becoming a valuable tool in the recruitment and retention of the VDA members with an emphasis on female and minority dentists.

So I say to you, it is now harvest time for this Medicaid issue dental health coverage for the needy children of Virginia and accessibility to that care. If we do not (respond) take advan tage of this window of opportunity now, if we are not ready for the harvest, we stand the chance of losing it forever.

The Membership Committee, chaired by Dr. Reed Boyd, and the Committee on the New Dentist, chaired by Dr. Carolyn Herring, are working closely together and are going to spend some time in joint meetings to minimize a duplication of efforts.

It is imperative that each member of the VDA take time to write a personal letter to your local delegate and senator. Explain to

For the dental students, I would encourage you to join the American Student Dental Association (ASDA) when you enter

Virginia Dental Journal 11

...

PRESIDENT-ELECT'S ADDRESS, CONT.. dental school. The relationship that develops between dental students and licensed dentists add a whole new dimension to membership, students learn from experienced practitioners and the dentists become aware of the concern of students. I have heard it said many times· if all potential members could spend a day at the ADA headquarters in Chicago - they would automatically become members. ADA would sell itself, and I agree. In summary, it is important that the Membership Committee constantly increase its efforts to illustrate the benefits to potential members, and the VDA will continue to financially support all membership recruitment and retention activities.

Following his coronalion by the

Virginia Tech Hokie Bird, Emporer

Huff smiles for the photographers.

new face of the VDA, I call upon all the members who hold a position in the VDA or serve on a councilor committee, to carry the message that you are charged with back to your component members.

CongratUlations: Congratulations to Dr. Anne Adams who has been elected as chairman of the ADA Council on Membership and to Dr. Russell Mosher. Jr., who has been appointed to the ADA Council on the New Dentist Both Anne and Russ have been extremely active in membership activities at the component and constituent level and both serve on the statewide Member ship Task Force.

Communication: I would like to say a few words concerning communication. First, I want to say to you that there are no agendas out there that are contrived to be detrimental to the Virginia Dental Association. With the growth of any organization comes changes and with growth and changes comes misunderstand ings and confusion, and the VDA is no exception. I feel the key to eliminating misunderstanding and confusion, such as that which occurred this year with regard to the VDA corporate structure and the Virginia Dental Service Corporation, is to establish a more open line of communication. I believe that all problems can be traced to a breakdown in communications. I believe that people, who talk to each other, talk less about each other I believe that people thrive in organizations where communica tion is clear, direct and honest I also believe that when this is done. there is a greater sense of self-responsibility. fewer excuses and less finger pointing. As Dr. Tim Rose, candidate for President Elect of the ADA said: "We must anticipate change and be proactive. We must not address change with a crisis mentality. Rather we must understand that the process of change is clearly an opportunity and not a threat. The future of our profession is ours to create" and this IS true with the VDA. For this organization to thrive through the growing pains of this

Only with this kind of communication will there be contentment in these changing times of our profession. As a start, I urge all the members of the House, our state and component officers, committee members or any other interested members to attend our leadership conference on November 15 and 16, 1997 at the Boars Head Inn in Charlottesville, Virginia. The theme for this year's conference is Growing The VDA Strengths For The Future. This will be an informative meeting that will focus on the growth and the changing face of dentistry in Virginia today. We need and encourage your participation at this leadership conference. There are many more issues of the VDA which must be addressed this year. There is much to be done and we all must work together to secure the success of our profession in Virginia. In closinq, I am reminded of my college years when I was a pitcher on the baseball team. My best pitch was a hard fast ball and a change of pace. Before going into the game my coach would say "WallY'c~tmr.C'Lw.ay from~curvel You'v~-9.oJ a good fast ball"JJ,§.§J1LL.J..~emember you are a tealIlQut !bere Q[Lthe fi(lld: donlJIY..1o do_~y.illYthlng on your OWlJ' Just depend on your teammates" Well, I pledge to you today that you Will not receive (get) any curves (pitches) from me. I say to each and every member of the VDA that I will always give you my best pitch. knowing that I can rely on the strength of my teammates (you) to work together for a better Virginia Dental Association. You can count on me to represent you to the best of my ability and I know I can count on you to respond when the need arises. (So) As we proceed with the business of this Assor:Ia tiori, let us go about it with the conviction that what brings us together is more Important than were we differ that "consen sus" is better than "nonsensus". and that we can do a lot more together than anyone of us can do alone. / ask for your prayers and guidance for ttns upcoming year. Now let's get down to the bUSiness of the VDA

[FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR. · '__II

William E. Zepp, CAE

We are in the midst of organized dentistry'S busiest season, with major meetings on both state and national levels .. Th~ Virginia Dental Association held its 128th Annual Meeting In Roanoke September 24-28 and hosted the ADA Sixteenth District Caucus in Williamsburg a short week later, October 3 5. As I make these brief notes, we are preparing for the ADA Annual Session in Washington, D.C. October 18-22 and the annual VDA Leadership Conference in Charlottesville in mid November.

While it is indeed a sad commentary that improvement of the profession of dentistry is not simply confined to advancing clinical skills and care of patients, the truth is that progress for the profession calls for involvement on many fronts - precisely because a number of non-dentist groups and individuals want a piece of dentistry. Without obtaining the degree, of course.

?;The meetings are both tiring and energizing for the VDA staff and I'm sure that participating dentists feel the same sense of excitement and exhaustion. While the various meetings do • attract members from all areas of the Commonwealth, certain '~faces seem to appear every week - actually every weekend. :The member dentists who have chosen to participate in 'leading the Virginia Dental Association and American Dental Association give the majority of their free time, not to mention significant out-of-office time, to organized dentistry and to the i'membership as a whole. former ADA President Dick D'Eustachio commented to the 1996 AAOMS Leadership Conference that the attendees were somewhat suspect in the eyes of other members. While most entlsts were spending the weekend in some recreational ndeavor, or at the very least enjoying time with family, the ",AOMS leaders were putting in some additional hours in a 'suburban Chicago hotel, listening to presentations on legisla L;tive activity and membership retention. Surely there must be :,some sinister and twisted motivation for their attendance, not . mention advanced egomania. In truth, the attendees had ade a choice to contribute far beyond the annual dues estment toward the progress and improvement of the fession of dentistry.

c c

'o" c c

Prior to the VDA Leadership Conference in November, agroup of member dentists will gather for the third consecutive year to revise and review the major goals of the Virginia Dental Association and the means to achieve those goals. It is a process that produces sometimes painfully slow results, but it does provide current and future direction for the VDA. It also insures that the direction of the VDA remains in the hands and control of the membership. Of necessity, the size of the goals review group is limited; however, every component is well represented, as well as a viable cross-section of the member ship. There are no size limitations on other meetings and areas of involvement. Everyone is welcome at the VDA Annual Meet ing, the monthly component meetings, and the leadership conference. Many components indicate that they cannot find interested individuals to fill committee assignments, so I know opportunity exists to become involved at that level. The new Donated Dental Services project is off to a flying start, through the efforts of DDS Coordinator Tanya Moore and a Chuck Duvall inspired letter from Governor Allen, but additional volunteers are still needed. The many Free Clinics throughout the Commonwealth are continually in need of additional volunteers. On the political front, the VDA Grassroots network requires constant refinement and identification of key contact individuals to make sure that dentistry's viewpoints are cor rectly conveyed to the members of the General Assembly and Congress. There are indeed opportunities for everyone seeking involvement in organized dentistry. Every current and past constituent and component president has asked you to become involved. This request comes from your Executive Director and the VDA staff: please don't assume that someone else will do it. Because they will - and they probably won't be a dentist.

SOfX.ecutive Council meets late Wednesday night to discuss utions for the Opening Session of the House of Delegates.

Virginia Dental Journal 13

1998 GENERAL ASSEMBLY PREVIEW Chuck Duvall, VDA Lobbyist

The 1998 Virginia General Assembly Session undoubtedly will be a very active one. With the new Governor and the new appointees to various state agencies trying to place their mark on a state budget and public policy, in all prob ability there will be a vast array of legislative items to con sider. Listed below are some of the items that as we go to press deserve the Virginia Dental Association's (VDA) attention. Obviously, other items will be added to the list as we ap proach the 1998 General Assembly Session.

Assignment of Benefits: Effective October 1, 1997, Trigon will send reimbursement checks directly to the insured parties rather than to provid ers for covered services rendered by professional provid ers who do not participate in trigon networks. The VDA has contacted Trigon "'(ithour concerns with regard to this policy. Medicaid: The Medicaid budget language that the VDA secured last year, calling for a study of dental reimbursement under Medicaid precipitated a study which is nearly concluded. That study, conducted by the Williamson Institute at MCV, should give us background information to use in conjunc tion with Medicaid, Head Start, and other patient advocacy groups to request increased Medicaid dental reimburse ments. VDA also is actively participating in the debate to make certain that dental services receive an appropriate portion of those funds earmarked by the Balanced Budget Act of 1997. It should be underscored that there will be many demands for Medicaid funds as well as other General Assembly funds in the 1998 General Assembly Session. It is imperative that VDA members through a grassroots lobbying effort make certain that this issue rises to the top.

HygienelAnesthesia: SJR 320 was introduced in the 1997 General Assembly Session by the Virginia Dental Hygiene Association. This measure requested a study as to whether or not hygienists should be allowed to administer local anesthesia. The study was referred to the Senate Education and Health Commit tee. The Committee plans to meet on October 28, 1997 to review this subject matter. If the hygienists meet with a negative response from the senate committee this issue may surface again in the 1998 session.

Point of Service: VDA has actively worked with the Virginians for Patient Choice Coalition to make certain that a point of service option for managed care policies was studied by the JOint Health Care Commission. Dr. Leslie S. Webb, Jr. has been appointed to the study panel. Though the group has met once, they have formulated no positions and are awaiting word from their actuary as to what option are feasible. The next meeting date is scheduled for October 27, 1997. Managed Care Complaints: HB 2785, passed in the 1997 Session of the Virginia Gen eral Assembly empowers the Commissioner of Health to assume a greater oversight role in the quality of care that Virginians receive by their HMO's. A work group has been put in place to design the requirements of HB 2785. That group will be forthcoming with a report that will have fairly comprehensive requirements placed upon HMO's and other managed care providers in terms of a quality complaint system. Medical Malpractice Cap: The present $1 million cap on medical malpractice awards, in all likelihood, will be contested by the Virginia Trial Law yers Association (VTLA) during 1998. The VTLA is attempt ing to make a case for the fact that the cap has not been raised since its implementation in the 1970's. They argue that inflation has driven medical costs up; therefore, the cap should be raised accordingly. VDA has been participating in deliberations with other pro vider groups in an effort to be prepared to meet this chal lenge.

Reimbursement for General Anesthesia for Pediatric Dental Care: Pediatric dentists in the Commonwealth have brouqht to the attention of the VDA a problem they are encountering from various insurance carriers regarding reimbursement for dental treatment under general anesthesia. The Vir ginia Society of Pediatric Dentistry is in the process of sur veying its membership to secure information regarding these denials. VDA has approved their request to move forward legisla tively. We are preparing to introduce legislation in the 1998 General Assembly Session which will mandate such cov erage for insurance carners in Virginia. This legislation will be referred to the Special Advisory Com rmssion on Mandated Health Insurance Benefits and will be reviewed in detail during 1998 before a recommenda. tion is forthcoming.

1;1

\/irninia Dental Journal

Must A Dentist Be A Juror? John P. Ackerly, III - VDA Legal Counsel .... __._.__.

December 8. You have had a Monda, Y .' Y030 u have just closed the door to your n9 t minutes to eat a quick sandwich (a b' ou "1 enext patient at 12:30. You note In your mal a . commissioners. You are shocked to find I)'n summoned for jury duty for the next term of .whichstarts on Monday, January 5, 1998, and , Friday, January 26, 1998. h~ve to cancel all of my appoint~ents for 4 to pay my assistant, my receptionist a,~d my are not working? What do I do?

owe :have practiced for more than ten years will

'~re exempt from state jury duty along with

of the General Assembly, sheriffs, police, ,; But in 1986 as part of tort reform there ~iiminating those exemptions in order to ualified jurors. This created quite a 'As an example, those readers that ')':fiadership Conference held at The '15 and 16, 1986, witnessed such a ht the elimination of the dentist shall of Charlottesville is remembered d that dentists have a civic obliga足 .!3 other side (Robert Keller of ind) went into detail about the ppointments are made way in ,.ice cannot render dental services sent, etc. A straw poll resulted in a ion of the exemption. . exemption posed a dilemma for lIy Pat Watkins, the then VDA and dentists wanted to support tort .?uty, but on the other hand the as considered to have the vastating for solo practitioners.. mma by suggesting that most e on jury duty if service could the week or a particular week of . prepared which became law on .'ate court authority to carve out a days, or the second week of ay, the dental practice is not

s included in an existing urt the authority to gefer a f "a particular occupational

.__ .....J

i .

Thomas of Roanoke. As of July 1, 1997, it appears that a dentist who is a solo practitioner can be excused altogether, if that dentist "is the only person performing services for a business, commer足 cial or agricultural enterprise and those services are so essential to the operations of the business, commercial or agricultural enterprise that such enterprise must close or cease to function if such person is required to perform jury duty" While someone might argue that a dentist runs a profession and not a "business, commercial or agricultural enterprise" this writer believes that a dental office is a "business" and that most judges would interpret "business" to include dental practices. Delegate Thomas told the writer that his intention in introducing this legislation was to protect the plumber, the dentist, and other single proprietor-type businesses where 30-day jury duty could severely damage the business. So if you are that dentist who on December 8 is summoned for a month's state* jury duty, you now have four choices: (1) you can ask for an exemption in that your services are so essential to the operation of your business that your business must close or cease to function if you are required to perform jury duty; (2) you can ask for a deferral of all jury duty in that jury service would pose a particular economic inconvenience for you; (3) you can request that your service be limited to a particular day of each week or a particular week of the term; or (4) you can serve the entire time. Moreover, there is no reason you can't seek relief alternatively, i.e., ask in the alternative for 1 first, 2 second, and 3 last. As is obvious, dental service on juries has almost gone full circle. Prior to 1987, dentists were exempt. In 1987 dentists lost their exemption, but could ask for a deferral or to limit their service. Starting July 1, 1997, solo dentists (who absence would close their "enterprise") can request exemption .

Mr. Ackerly, a partner in the Richmond law firm of Mays & Valentine, L.L.P., has served as VDA legal counsel for approxi足 mately 30 years . *Note: The federal jury system is simpler. A dentist can request the clerk of the court to temporarily !3xcu~e him/her "if a reasonable excuse is given, such as a planned vacation, an important business meeting, or other similar event that would cause inconvenience to the juror." The federal judge can excuse the dentist if "undue hardship or extreme inconve足 nience" is shown .

.ve Worked well, in that er have received adverse

ists was further enhanced . year by Delegate Victor

Virginia Dental Journal 15

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Adjudication of Dental Insurance Claims L

A number of our colleagues have experienced problems with the ajudication of dental insurance claims over the past years. Reports of down grading of insurance codes, decreasing the number of reported surfaces involved in restorations, excessive delays in pre authorization and payment of dental claims and claims of non-receipt of necessary paperwork are some of the complaints sporadically received by our local and Virginia Dental Associations It is our feeling that the appropriate state agencies, individuals and the central office of the Virginia Dental Association have not been made aware of the extent of the difficulties encountered by dental practitioners. It is the intention of your local and state dental associations to aid its member dentists in bringing this problem of fairness in claims adjudica tion to the attention of all parties and agencies that might be able to assist in making the current system more equi table to dental care providers.

Dr. T. Wayne Mostiler, Chairman VDA Legislative_ Committee

3. Mail a copy to the patient's insurance benefit office. 4_ Mail a copy of the com pleted form to the State Insurance Commissioner, the VDA, and your local dental association (addresses listed below). Mail VDA Form to VDA. 5. If the disputed claim involves the Federal Depen dent Dental Plan, mail copies to the GAO, Senators Robb and Warner, your Congress man and Congressman Charles Norwood, as well as those indicated in item 4 (addresses listed below). If you feel that your rights as a provider are being violated, or if there ls any question of legal or criminal liability, it is imperative that you seek legal representation to protect yourself.

We now seek to obtain an equally high quality of service by insurance compa nies to their subscribers through their dental benefits plan. Your voice is apt to be lost as an indi vidual. Only by working together through the Virginia Dental Association and our local dental association can effect any change. Governor's Office

Post Office Box 1475

Richmond, VA 23212

800-422-2319

The Honorable Charles S Hobb

U. S. Senate

154 Russell Senate Office Building

Washington, DC 20510

202-224-4024/F 202-224-8689

The Honorable John W. Warner

U. S. Senate

225 Russell Senate Office Building

Washington, DC 20510

202-224-2023/F 202-224-6079

Your local and state dental associations, as well as appropriate state agencies and individuals cannot take steps to resolve claim discrepancies unless providers report situations to them as they arise. As the frequency of our reports increase, so does the probability of action and resolution.

Neither the local or state dental associations can represent you in the case of alleged criminal or fraudulent activities.

If you are having a problem with an individual claim or third party payor, the first step is to initiate a complaint by calling the company's provider relations department. If the representative cannot help you. ask to speak to a claims supervisor. Keep accurate telephone records of each incident including date, name of individual(s) contacted, resolu tion promised and date promised for resolution Endeavor to obtain things in writing from the company, if possible. If correction of the problem is not progressing in a reasonable or timely manner. we would suggest that you make copies of the enclosed form and use It in the following manner: 1. Fill out all information com pletely (Bon-, VDA Form and SCC Form) 2. Mail a copy to your patient and Include a copy in the patients chart

Insurance companies are much more motivated to resolve their subscribers' complaints since SUbscribers are paying their bills It appears that the insurance industry has attempted to justify their inappropriate actions by implying that dental providers have over charged, overtreated and unfairly billed third party payers and patients. We can counteract these measures by consistently reporting difficulties with insurance compa nies to appropnate individuals and organizations

Encourage your patients to contact their benefits representative or insurance company.

By usrnq the information provided by your local and state dental assocrations we can help each other and at the same time. let our patients know that dental associa tion members are dedicated to providing the best quality of ca re for our patients

The Honorable Owen B. Pickett

U.S. House 01 Hepresentanvss

2430 Rayburn House Office Building

Washington DC 20515

202-225-4215/ F 202-225-4218

The Honorable Norman Sisisky

U S House of Representatives

2371 Rayburn House Office Building

Washinglon DC 20515

The Honorable Charles Norwood

U.S House of Representatives

Washington, DC 20515

20?-2?5-41 01 IF 202-225-0279

Ms Carolyn Kirby

U.S. General Accounting Office

411 G Street. NW

NGB/Sulte 550

Washington DC 20548

202 512-9843

Mr !\Itreel Gross

Insurance Cvmmrssroner

Common'NPillth 0' Vlrgmia

1300 E r'Aalfl Street

Richmond. Vi'. 232 ' 9

Mr Torr HUIT1IJOljl \I!09 Preslclen1

Un,tee! Cc;OCOrJia IllsJrar'!ce CO.-Ffv1PD

100 Sen2te Avenue

Cano Hili Pi', 1708!J

717-763-3493

..足

State Corporation Commission

Bureau of Insurance

Life and Health Division

Post Office Box 1157 Richmond, VA 23218

~or Office Use Only

For Office Use Only

I wish to me a complaint: (please print) 1. My name is:

Day Telep hone..

;:;-:-:;:-::;J,~lhel

..l..(_...L) (Area Code-Number)

2. Mailing Address: (Street/Apt. Number)

City:

State:

ZIP:

3. If you are not the insured or the person on whose behalf this complaint is being filed, please tell us who is and explain your relationship:

4. I am complaining against: (Name of Insurance Company. Agent or Health Maintenance Organization (HMO))

(Address, if known)

5. The Insured's Policy, Certificate or ID Number is: 6. The type of insurance is: My Insurance Plan is:

0 0

Life Group

0 0

_ Health

o Annuity

Individual

DHMO*

o Credit

"Note: HMOs are required by law to have internal grievance procedures for their members, and the procedure to follow is explained in your contract or evidence of coverage. Before filing a complaint against an HMO, you are urged to take advantage of your HMO's grievance procedure. If your HMO complaint involves quality of care issues, the Bureau ofInsurance will forward your complaint to the Virginia Department ofHealth for a response.

The details of my complaint are: (type or print clearly, use other side if needed)

FOR VDA USE ONLY

Virginia Dental Asssociation 5600 Monument Avenue Post Office Box 6906 Richmond, VA 23230

I wish to file a complaint: (please print)

1. My name is:

Day Telephone:

J..-(

-J-

)

-颅

(Area Code and Nwnber)

2. Mailing Address:

(Street/Apt Number)

City:

State:

Zip:

3. If you are not the insured or the person on whose behalf this complaint is being filed, please tell us who is ane explain your relationship:

4. I am complaining against: (Name of Insurance Company, Agent or Health Maintenance Organization [HM:O])

(Address, ifknown)

5. The Insured's Policy, Certificate or ID Number is:. 6. The type of insurance is: 0 Life My Insurance Plan is:

o Group

o Health

o Annuity

o Individual

o HMO.

路Note: HMO's are required by law to have internal grievance procedures for their members. and the procedure to follow is explained in your contract or evidence ofcoverage. Before filing an HMO complaint with the Bureau ofInsurance, you are urged to take advantage ofyour HMO's grievance process.

The details of my complaint are: (type or print clearly, use the other side if needed) o Code change by Insurance Company

o Coverage denial for specific cody by Insurance Company

o Lost radiographs by Insurance Company

o Lost claims forms by Insurance Company

o Slow pay - Enter number of days over 15 since claim form mailed to Insurance Company

Days

o OtherlExplanation: I, hereby give ~y permission to release any pertinent information concerning to submit this form on the above insurance claim and 1 hereby authorize Dr. my behalf

;;Waste Management for the Dental Offices Dental Association, the ",olumbia Dental Society, and f~hdState Dental Association e~(,Iwa.ste water task force has led the following guidelines to Ientists in the proper management Gc{and excess amalgam waste in

1~~tl3.loffice. ~~:~;%if; :;:,:::;:

edui'es for Amalgam Collection use of the concern of amalgam ledwith mercury entering the waste ~'stream, precautions should be O:to minimize amalgam in disposal of

'8;揃~ater.

!.langeamalgam traps at least once ." or more frequently as needed. er place used or excess amalgam lthe drain. isposable amalgam traps are mmended over reusable traps. I amalgam, that can be reasonably ved from reusable traps, should be , led. lecondary filters in vacuum pump el'!1s should be chanqed'once a tn or more frequently if needed or lrding to manufacture's specificaII materials that have the potential to taln amalgam particles too small for icling such as gauze, paper towels or ty amalgam capsules should be osed of through the methods for solid e; II materials that contain amalgam rtlcles should not be washed. Disposal uch materials should be by recycling lsposal of in the same manner as waste which is not incinerated.

tal Office Recycling tistry can take pre-emptive steps to ep pace with scientific research and health care industry to reduce algam discharges. The dental fession strives to be more diligent in lections and recycling efforts of all our

.. avy metals. In an attempt to be more

;~!h_ ".

should be recycled and gauzes placed in solid waste which is not incinerated. 4. Dispose of amalgam in spittoon and sink traps as solid waste. Do not rinse it down the sewer lines. 5. Make sure your office has a mercury spill kit and developing solution spill kits. These spill kits should then be disposed of in solid waste not down the drain. 6. Store collected amalgam waste under radiographic fixer solution. Fixer solution containing silver should not enter the office waste water. 7. Recycle used and excess amalgam

through EPA licensed refiners.

8. Waste used and excess amalgam may be sent to the recycler via UPS, Fed Ex or others in a strong sealed container. 9. Certain manufacturers make a dental unit for the market that has a system to collect amalgam from the water in the unit beyond the standard amalgam trap. The effects of using amalgam separators in the dental office are not yet well documented. The commercially available separators usually employ a centrifuge or enhance sedimentation. There is currently no consensus as to the defini足 tion of percentage removal appropriate for separators. The American Dental Association (ADA) is participating in the International Standards Organization's development of an international standard for amalgam separators. The ADA does not have a certificate program for amalgam separators. The ADA Seal of Acceptance has not been granted to any amalgam separators.

Healthy Communities Loan Fund

Financing for primary care More than 1 in 5 Virginians live in areas where there simply aren't enough dentists to deliver needed services to residents. The Healthy Communities Loan Fund is now available to increase the number of dental care providers in Virginia's underserved dental areas. Whether you're interested in recruiting additional dentists, relocating dental practices, or consolidating dental student loans for recruitment, the $4.2 million loan fund, made possible at low interest rates through First Virginia Banks, Inc., can help. Amounts typically range from $50,000 to $250,000, with five year amortization. No bank fees, no points, and no penal足 ties for early repayment.

Dental waste refining or disposal firms: American Waste Management Baltimore, MA 410-276-7400 Biomedical Waste Severn, MD 800-660-6581 Dorell Refinery Freeport, NY 516-223-3684/ 800-645-2794

The Healthy Communities Loan Fund is endorsed by the Virginia Dental Association, and admin足 istered by the Virginia Health Care Foundation (VHCF), a non-profit, independent entity with a charge to increase access to health care for

ROANOKE: THE MEETIN(

1997 Annual Meeting Chairman Mike O'Keefe and President Allison listen to remarks during the Opening Session, Drs, Reed Boyd and Roger Palmer of the Southside Component liste as Northern Virginia Component Chairman Bruce Hutchison makes a point during the Sunday Session of the House of Delegates,

Dr Raleigh Watson (I) receives the Pierre Fauchard Achievement Award from Pierre Fauchard Academy Chairman Jacksor Payne,

Cowboy two-steppers include Annual Meeting Chair Mike O'Keefe ani his wife Carolyn.

Members of the Board of Dentistry and other VIPs attended Thursday's Opening Session.

r足

Bonnie Anderson IS amused. but Tanya Moore remains skeptical at f-J Barrett's attempt to talk the VDA stattsrs out 01 a souvenir Tvsturt Virginia's own ADA President Elect Dave Whiston shares a West Virginia anecdote with Opening Session attendees.

20 Virginia Dental Journal

HOUSE OF DELEGATES ACTIONS IN BRIEF ...

September 28, 1997 The following recommendations were approved on the Consent Agenda: 1. Adopted recommendation that the Virginia DenIal Association arrange for the design and production of a pin to be presented to individuals involved in VDA leadership at the Committee Chairman level and above. 2. Adopted a recommendation that Dr. leslie S. Webb, Jr. be elected as Editor of the VDA Journal. 3. Adopted a recommendation that the VDA create an expanded directory of volunteer services throughout the state for special needs patients with information to be collected at the local component level. 4. Adopted the VDA Peer Review Manual. 5. Adopted a recommendation that the VDA terminate conditional approval of DENTIX, due to failure to approve contract. 6. Adopted a recommendation that the VDA establish Beta sites with DOlCO, Inc. 7. Adopted a recommendation that Dr. William A. Burston (Compo足 nent 8) be nominated for honorary membership in the Virginia Dental Association, in recognition for his service to the Northern Virginia Dental Clinic. 8. Adopted a recommendation that the Virginia Dental Association join with the Virginia Healthcare Foundation as a "Healthy Community loan Fund Partner" with all the rights, privileges, and responsibilities thereunto appertaining; and be it further resolved that the Virginia Dental Association express its sincere appreciation to the Virginia Healthcare Foundation for its recognition of and support for oral health care for all Virginians. 9. Adopted a recommendatioh that all taxes which are salary related, as in the case of staff bonuses, shall be calculated and will be withheld at the time the bonus is presented. 10. Adopted a recommendation that the current method of determining component representation to the VDA House of Delegates be utilized by the Secretary-Treasurer in establishing the membership of the 1997 House of Delegates. 11. Adopted a recommendation that dental students, hygiene students, dental assisting students, and dental laboratory technician students be exempt from registration fees at the VDA Annual Meeting. 12. Adopted a recommendation that the VDA send a letter to Delta Dental of Virginia and copy each of their Board Dentists expressing the VDA's concern over Delta's methodology in figuring their deductible procedure since March 1996. 13. Adopted that each April, during the awards ceremony at the Virginia State Science & Engineering Fair, one of the fifteen Virginia Science Talent Award Program (VSTAP) winners would be presented with the "Dr. Bennett A. Malbon Prize"(pending approval by Susan Malbon) in recognition for superior science talent and community spirit. The prize would consist of a $500 dollar scholarship and a commemora足 tive plaque. The "Dr. Bennett A. Malbon Prize" would underscore the VDA's commitment to sponsor the future and acknowledge Dr. Malbon as a role model for Virginia's future dentists. 14. 6dopted a recommendation that in regard to current Rules and Regulations pertaining to "delegated functions" allowing dental hygienists to place controlled delivery antibiotics in periodontal pockets, the Dental Practice Regulations Committee proposes the reevaluation of the appropriateness of application of controlled delivery antibiotics by dental hygienists based on the opinion that the application is an invasive procedure where tissue is sealed consistent with the performance of a minor surgical procedure and should be restricted to a licensed dentist as the cu rrent dental practice act mandates. 15. Adopted a recommendation that the VDA seek to have insurance companies operating within the State of Virginia to comply with current ADA policy regarding recognition of Pediatric Dentistry as a primary care provider. 16. Adopted a recommendation that the VDA endorse current ADA policy on Department of Defense Directive 1330.9 17. Adopted a recommendation that the VDA encourage each COmponent to provide time for their VDA Ad Hoc Ethics Committee representative to make a presentation. 18. ~dopted a recommendation to allow Component SOCieties of the VDA including MCV to link to the VDA homepage pending favorable review for content by the Central Office.

19. Adopted a recommendation that the VDA fund a hospitality room at the 1997 ADA Annual Meeting. 20. Adopted a recommendation that the VDA not approve a contribu足 tion to the State Chamber of Commerce wall restoration project. 21. Adopted a recommendation that an ad be submitted for inclusion in the Virginia Licensed Nurse Child Safety and Healthcare Coloring Book. 22. Adopted a recommendation that the contract of the VDA Executive Director be extended to December 31,2000. 23. 8dopted a recommendation that leadership pins for current leaders of the Association be placed in the registration packets at the 1997 Annual Meeting. 24. Adopted a recommendation to increase the administrative fee to the Virginia Society Of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons and Virginia Association Of Orthodontists to $3,500 each. 25. 8dopted a recommendation that the 2001 Annual Meeting be held in the Hyatt Regency Crystal City Hotel. 26. Adopted a recommendation that auxiliary loan forms be sent to the Auxiliary Education & Relations Committee members for appropriate revisions to expedite the loan application process. Example revisions of these forms will include an exact dollar amount of loan request, forwarding address to chair of Auxiliary Education & Relations Commit足 tee, certification of financial need by financial aid officer, etc. In addition, sample loan applications for financial assistance from MCV will be sent to all committee members. Newly formatted applications are to be decided at the next Auxiliary Education & Relations Committee meeting. 27. Adopted a recommendation that a loan of $1 ,000.00 to Kristen Evans be provided if the following criteria are met: 1) Adequate financial aid forms have been completed and financial need has been certified by the school's financial aid officer; 2) loan Agreement is signed, designating loan repayment begins six (6) months upon completion of her hygiene program and subject to a 3% APR over a five-year term; 3) loan repayment will be due within sixty (60) days from withdrawal from hygiene program; and 4) Final approval of the above criteria subject to review by the committee chairman. 28. Adoptee;!a recommendation that the VDA support the efforts of the Virginia Head Start Association to increase the Medicaid budget and the reimbursement level for dentistry. 29. Adopted a recommendation that a form requesting judges for the Virginia Science Talent Awards Program be included with a mailing of the VDA Journal. 30. Adopted a recommendation that the Virginia Dental Association establish a monthly dues program to be divided into three (3) equal monthly payments (October through December) with the final December payments incorporating any potential increase in VDA or ADA dues. This will allow for payment of dues by December 31 st each year for the subsequent year's dues. Be it further resolved that this program becomes effective in October 1998. Upon submission to the House by VDA Reference Committees, the House took the following actions: 31. Adopted a recommendation that $500 be allocated for an annual budget for the VDA Fellows. 32. Adopted a recommendation to establish a position in 1997 in the VDA Central Office that is an assistant's position to a number of operations with funding from the VDSC and Direct Reimbursement 33. Adopted as amended a recommendation that: 1. No member shall serve on more than two (2) standing or specialized committees at a time. 2. No Executive Council member shall serve as a voting member of a standing or specialized committee unless required in the Constitution & Bylaws. The Executive Council chairman shall appoint a non-voting liaison from the Executive Council to each standing or specialized committee. and is determined by the American Dental Association. The number of Alternate Delegates shall equal the number of Delegates. The current President and the hoo Immediate Past presidents shall be Alternate Delegates. The Secretary Treasurer and Spealwr of the House of Delegates shall be Alternate Delegates in the calendar year folio ding their election. If any member shall have been elected to seroe

Virginia Dental Journal 21

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22 Virginia Dental Journal

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as curre~t Dele§ate or Alternate Delegate, that member shallser've as 34. Adopted a recommendation that the dues discount for new members, as reflected in ADA House Resolution H67-96, be imple mented at the constituent level in 1998. 35. Adopted a recommendation that all components of the VDA be advised of H67-96 and encouraged to comply with the resolution. 36. AdQQ!gd a recommendation that the VDA donate $500 to send an ASDA representative from MCV to attend the 1997 ASDA Leadership Conference. 37. t.dopted the Preliminary Budget for the 1998 Williamsburg Annual Meetmg. 38. Adopted a recommendation that funding is made for the MCV Senior Golf Tournament/Picnic in Richmond in the amount of $15.00 per person, not to exceed a total of $3,000. 39. Adopted a recommendation that the Constitution & Bylaws be amended as follows: delete from Article VIII, Section 1,A. Regular Standing Committees. 7. Defltal Educatiofl afld COfltiflUiflg Educatlofl Committee a. Membership: This Committee shall cOflsist of tefl members, iflCludiflg Ofl represefltative from each compofleflt society afld tl'vO memeers from MCV School of Denlislry. e. Duties: The duties of Ihis C-emmittee shall include the follo ...iflg: (1) conlinual re~ie~. of all matters pertainiflg to defllal educalioR afld cOfltiAuing education; (2) Liaison subcommittee '"ith Ihe MCV School of Defltislr)'; (3) maiRlain a Liaison Subcommittee .. ilh Ihe MCV School of DeRlislry; (4) act as coordiflalor of scieAlific programs on a slale .. ide basis; (5) publish in Ihe--Y-ifsiflia Denial doumal a calef1(1ar of cOfllinuing educalion courses; (6) promole high elhics aAd prefessioflalism amoflg praclicing denlisls iR VirgiRia; (7) oversee programs providiflg extemships aRd associaleships for defllal sludeRts; and (8) eRcourage eli§ible studeRts to pursue careers in deRtistry. Liaison Subcommittee. From the"Defltal Educatiofl and COAliAUiR§ Educatiofl Commillee shall ee formed aRnually a LiaisoR Subcommittee 10 cOAsistof Ihe Committee Chairman, a member at large fmm the Committee, a member fmm Ihe faculty of Ihe MCV School of Dentistry, the PresideAI am! PresideAt Elecl of Ihe AssocialioA, afld a representa ti,e from each compofleflt sociely, from the Memeership Committee aAd from Ihe Committee OA Ihe Ne'" DeAtisl. This Subcommittee shall arraAge 10 meet periodically with the DeaA of the MCV School of Defltistry to cORsider problems of mutual iAterest to the School afld the AssociatioA aAd to establish a program of iflteractioA .. ith studeAts of the MCV School of DeAtistry to promote pmfessioflalism aAd eAcourage participation to orgaAized deAtistry. Hie Liaisofl Subcommittee shall report through the Dental EducatioR aAd COfltifluiAg Educatiofl Committee to the Executive Council. d. VirgiAia OeAtal Association Education FouAdatioA: Each memeer of the DeAtal EaucatioA aAa COAtiAuiAg EducatioA Committee who is a represeAtative of a compoAeflt society shall be aA ex officio director of the VirgiAie Defltal Assoeietiofl Educetioflel FouAdatioA. Reference to this Committee will be removed from the VDA Constitution and Bylaws and the remaining committees renumbered in consecutive order. 40. Adopted a recommendation that the Manual of the House of Delegate be amended as follows. IV. Rules Of The House Of Del egates, Section H. Following the sentence (This Committee shall also provide a doorkeeper for the House.) add The Minutes Committee. The Minutes Committee shall be appointed and controlled by the Speaker to revjew and approve the Minutes of the House of Delegates

component shall elect more Alternate Delegates than Delegates. The secretary-treasurer of each component society shall certify to the Secretary-Treasurer of the Virginia Dental Association by May first of each year the names of duly elected Delegates and Alternate Delegates to the next Session of the Virginia Dental Association's House of Delegates. Length of term of Delegates and Alternate Delegates shall be determined by the component society. 42. Adopteg a recommendation that the House of Delegates Manual be amended as follows: IV. Rules Of The House Of Delegates, Section E. Motion to Recommit or Refer to an Agency: When the House of Delegates wishes to recommit or refer a pending resolution to a committee or to the Executive Council for study and report at the next Annual Session, the motion to be used to accomplish this purpose is the motion to refer to a committee. A motioR to postpofle defiRitely to the next session should Aot be used siAce it is Aot permissible to postpofle a questiofl beyo~d the next regular ffieeting or the end of the con'vention. A motion to !Lostpone definitely to the next session should be permissible. 43. Adopted a recommendation that the VDA endorse legislation that is to increase funding for Dental Medicaid reimbursement. 44. Adopted a recommendation that the "Minnesota Model" which provides for general anesthesia services for children during the delivery of comprehensive dental services be utilized as guidelines for Virginia Insurance policies. 45. Adopted as amended a recommendation that VDA committees review their past minutes in accordance with a time frame which committee members determine is historically appropriate; that potentially beneficial motions, ideas, or concepts not previously implemented be recovered and reviewed for possible use or implementa tion; that potential conflicts with current activities be identified and resolved through this review process and that potential statements of policy be identified and incorporated into the VDA Bylaws (as appropri ate) or VDA Policy. 46. Adopted a recommendation that the 1998 Direct Reimbursement Budget be accepted as presented. 47. Adopted the 1998 VDA Budget as presented. 48. Adopted a recommendation that fees for the 1998 Annual Meeting be: Dentist $90.00; Hygienist $45.00; Assistant $15.00; and Spouse no charge. 49. Adopted a recommendation that the Bylaw changes, from the Planning Committee, to remove the Delegate and Alternate Delegate positions from elected offices including the President-Elect, Secretary Treasurer and the Speaker of the House elected through the 1997 election shall not have their alternate delegate status affected by these Bylaws changes. ARTICLE IV Section 2 F. a. The Immediate Past President shall serve one year as a voting member of the Executive Committee and of the Executive Council tIfld as an Alternate Delegate to the House of Delegates meetiAg at the AflAual Session of the American DeAtal Association. F. c. The Speaker of the House shall be elected annually by the House of Delegates. aAa shallse~e 8S afl Alternate Delegate to the I louse of Delegates meetiflgs at the AAnual SessioA of the American DeAtal AssociatioA.

HOUSE OF DELEGATES ACTIONS 'N BRiEF . . ,

Fellows Selection Committee shall assume the complete responsibility for choosing Fellows. The Fellows Selection Committee consisting of one elect~,Lr:n.ember from each component society of the Virginia Qental A~S.o.ciation Fellows shall establish Bylaws governing selection of new Fellows and such other business as may properly come before it 52. bdoptlW a recommendation to place for reference purposes only the notation in Article VIII, Section 1B: 7. Fellows Selection COrT1rnitte~ (See6L\l(;le I Section 2 D) 53. Adoptej:j a recommendation to place for reference purposes only the notation in Article VIII, Section 1,B as 8. Nominating Committee (See1\.Lticie IV, Section ~) 54. Adopted as amend~Q a recommendation that the ADA Definitions of Fraudulent and Abusive Practices in Dental Plans (1990:535) be adopted as VDA Policy and, that consistent with ADA policy on Legislation Prohibiting Waiver of Copayment/Overbilling (1990:534), the VDA pursue enactment of legislation that (1) prohibits systematic non足 disclosure of waiver of patient co-payment/overbilling by a dentist and (2) prohibits bad faith insurance practices by third-party payers, and urge third-party payers to support this legislative objective, Definitions of Fraudulent and Abuse Practices in Dental Plans (1990535) Resolved that the following definitions related to fraudulent and abusive practices in dental benefit plans be adopted: Claims Reporting Fraud: The intentional misrepresentation of material facts concerning treatment provided and/or charges made, in that this misrepresentation would cause a high payment Bad Faith Insurance Practices: The failure to deal with a beneficiary of a dental benefit plan fairly and in good faith; or an activity which impairs the right of the beneficiary to receive the appropriate benefit of a dental benefits plan or to receive them in a timely manner. Some examples of bad faith insurance practices include: evaluating claims based on standards which are significantly at variance with the standards of the community; failure to properly investigate a claim for care; and unreasonably and purposely delaying and/or withholding payment of a claim. Claims Payment Fraud: The intentional manipulation or alteration of facts submitted by a treating dentist resulting in a lower payment to the beneficiary and/or the treating dentist than would have been paid if the manipulation had not occurred, Overcoding: Reporting a more complex and/or higher cost procedure than was actually performed. Unbundling of Procedures: The separating of a dental procedure into component parts with each part having a charge so that the cumulative charge of the components is greater than the total charge to patients who are not beneficiaries of a dental benefit plan for the same proce足 dure. DowncoQing A practice of third-party payers in which the benefit code has been changed to a less complex and/or lower cost procedure than was reported. Bundling of Procedures: The systematic combining of distinct dental procedures by third-party payers that results in a reduced benefit of the patient/beneficiary. 55. t',dopted a recommendation that the VDA adopt as policy the VDA Legislative Procedure as amended VDA Legislative Procedure Any Virginia Dental ASSOCiation (VDA) member who has legislation that they wish to have introduced by the VDA Into the Virginia General Assembly should first submit it to their local component This proposal should Include background information as to the necessity for this particular piece of legislation. This background material should contain documented information and monetary impact The local component will then review this matter in detail and il they find additional information IS needed, It shall be requested of the initiator o! the leglslation.Once the matter has been approved by the governing body of the local component. it is then to be torwarded to the Chairman 01 the VDA Legislative Committee. The particular legislative change should be in the hands of the Chairman of the Legislative Committee two weeks pnor to the VDA June Committee Meetings. The Chairman of the VDA Legislative Committee will in turn submit this legislation to the full committee for review

24 Virginia Dental Journal

At the June Committee Meetings all legislative proposals submitted will be reviewed and local components that have asked for the introduc!lon of such legislation will be called upon to present their proposal before the entire Legislative Committee and those in attendance. Following the June Committee Meetings, the Legislative Committee will establish work sessions and subcommittee (as necessary) to review in detail the various legislative proposals as well as other matters that they know will be corrunq before the General Assembly In the upcoming year. At or before the Annual Meeting, the Legislative Committee will evaluate all proposals These proposals shall be explained In detail by the appropriate subcommittee chairman (if a subcommittee has been used,) The entire committee then will vote on whether or not this matter shOUld be considered for introduction in the next legislative session. The Legislative Committee, upon review of all proposals shall present those matters approved to the Executive Committee for their approval. The Executive Committee shall determine during the Annual Meeting those particular pieces of legislation to be Included in the legislative package for the coming year. These proposals then will be put before the House of Delegates for final approval. Following this, the Legislative Committee and staff from the VDA, in cooperation with the VDA lobbyist, will solicit sponsors for the legislation and establish a framework of competent witnesses to appear on behalf of that legislation in the upcoming General Assembly session, VDA committees also are asked to comply with the procedure outlined above. The Legislative Committee realizes that there will be some extenuating circumstances in certain times that will require the procedure to be circumvented. Recognizing this, the Executive Council has ultimate responsibility for interim policy, 56. Defeated a recommendation that beginning in 1998 the Nominating Committee establish a one hour open forum to be held at the VDA Annual Meeting for VDA members to meet and question candidates for VDA elective office. 57. Adopted as amended a recommendation that the members of the Dental Practice Regulations Committee chairman be responsible for assuring that a Dental Practice Regulations Committee Member be present at all appropriate Board of Dentistry meetings. 58. AdoptEWa recommendation that the Membership Chairman should attend the ADA Recruitment & Retention Conference in November, 1997 and that the expenses for this conference will come from the Member足 ship Committee's budget, if available, or the Executive Council's Discretionary Fund. The Membership Chairman shall submit a written report to the Executive Council after the meeting. 59. Adopted a recommendation that following every meeting of the Executive Council, the Chairman will develop an Executive Summary of items of critical interest to the membership and send the Summary to the Executive Councilors to be communicated at their next respective component meeting. 60. Adopted a recommendation that a strong recommendation be made to the component societies to provide time on the component meeting agendas for presentation by their Executive Councilor regarding the actions of the Executive Council. 61. Adopted a recommendation that the Virginia Dental Association endorse the concept of a Southeastern States Leadership Conference meeting. 62. Adopted a recommendation that VDA Component Societies must refer all potential product or service endorsements, for-profit or other足 wise, to the Virginia Dental Services Corporation for determination of both contractual conflicts of interest and/or the appropriateness of endorsement at the Constituent level, as a matter of VDA Policy 63. Ac:lQRted a recommendation for endorsement m concept of the ADA ECCo's endorsed electronic claims clearinghouse. Envoy, by the Virginia Dental ASSOCiation be directed to the Virginia Dental Services Corporation. 64. 8QQj2ted a recommendation that a legislative Initiative be developed by the Virginia Dental Association lobbyist and Legislative Committee. In concert With the Virginians for Patient Choice Coalition if appropriate to prohibit the denial of Assignment of Benefit clauses by third-party provrcsrs. 65. Adopted a recommendation that Robert A Levine be appointed to serve on tile Virginia Dental Services Corporation Board and to reaffirm the appoint of Bill Zepp Dr. Jeff Levin. and Or. Ken Copeland to the VDSC Board of Directors.

ROANOKE: THE MEETING

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Attendees listen attentively during Christine Dumas and Bill van Dyk's Saturday CE presentation.

Featured clinician Dr. Harald Heymann emphasizes a point during his Saturday seminar.

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New VDA President Elect Charlie Cuttino and his wife, Dr. Anne Adams.

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Dr. Dumas' partner Dr. Bill van Dyk cautionsFriday's attendees not to believe everything she says.

Featured clinician and television personality Dr. Christine Dumas tells the audience "So I said to Oprah ..."

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Senior dental student Christa Ellenberger received the Pierre Fauchard Scholarship Award for 1997. Dr. Ellenberger also served as the MCV student representative in the House of Delegates.

Dr. Fred Coots observes as Dr. Bud Zimmer is fitted for orascoptic lenses. Participants received a free pin for testing the product.

Virginia Dental Journal 25

HOUSE OF DELEGATES ACTIONS IN BRIEF . . ,

66. Adopted a recommendation that an explanation of the procedure for corporate action by the Virginia Dental Association relative to the Virginia Dental Services Corporation be prepared and included in VDA Policy. 67. Adopted a recommendation to refer the following VDA Policy items

to the House of Delegates for rescission:

- VDA should establish a Special Fluoridation Information Committee to

identify health professionals and other who would assist us (1983);

- VDA-MCV School of Dentistry Endowment Fund Committee should be

added as an Administrative Standing Committee (1987);

- Dental hygiene grants should be limited to the interest generated on

the principal of the Student Loan and Scholarship account (1981);

- The eligibility for the VDA Denture Help Program is an income per

individual of $500 per month and for a married couple, $700 per month

(1983); and- All monies derived from any member dues for the promo

tion, marketing and operation of a Direct Reimbursement program shall

be kept in a separate account. Disbursement will be made by the VDA

Secretary-Treasurer or Executive Director following direction from the

Dental Care Programs Committee (1995).

68. Adopted as amended a recommendation to include the follOWing

item in VDA Policy:

- A Direct Reimbursement Annual Budget and monthly Financial

Statement will be developed and administered separately from the VDA

Operational Budget (1997).

69. Adopted a recommendation that the Infection Control and

Environmental Safety Committee would replace the current name of the

EnVironmental Health and Safety Committee with the following Bylaw

changes:

- Article VIII, Section 1, B.:3 -Infection Control and Environmental Safet~

for Efl,ironmentalI lealth and Safet~ Committee.

- Article VIII, Section 2, B-3 -Infection Control and Environmental Safety

for Environmentaillealth and Safet'y Committee. (4000)

70. Adopted a recommendation that the Constitution &b Bylaws be

amended as follows:

Article VIII, Section 1-A: add 16. Ethics and judicial Affairs Committee.

Article VIII, Section 4: add 16. Ethics and Judicial Affairs committee

a. Membership: This Committee shall consist of eight members,

including one representative from each component society. The

Chairman of the Committee shall be selected by the President of the

VDA who shall also be a member ex-officio.

b. Duties: The duties of this Committee shall include the followingJjj

to educate and motival~dentists to be ethical practitioners; (2) to

function <lli.ilLeviEZ'!l~counseling and appeal committee; (3) to support

component society efforts in ethics review and to ensure that there is

uniformity in our.state's disciplinary process; (4) to disseminate

information regarding ethics and the Code of Professional Conduct to

our practitioners and to students at our dental school· (5) to work with

the ADA and the Council on Ethics, Bylaws and Judicjal Affairs to

enhance the ethics of the dental profeSSion.

71. Adopted a recommendation that the Constitution & Bylaws be

amended as follows:

Article VIII, Section 1-A: delete 10. Dental Trade Bnd LaboFBtoFy

Reltlhons Committee (and renumber).

Article VIII, Section 1-C: add 3. Dental Trade and Laboratory Relations

Committee

Article VIII, Section 4-A: delete 10. Dental Trade and Laboratory

Relations Committee

a. Membership: This Committee sha+tconsi3t of tNei¢e members,

ifteluding one representative from each compoAent society and four

members at large appointed to serve fBr four years on a rotating basi3

by the President of the AS30ciation.

B. Duties: The duties of this Committee shall include the folio ding: The

encouragement and development of harmonious relatloRs "ith the

various orgaFllzBtioA3 representing the dental trade and laboratories, and

the maintenance of high ethical aAd legal standards of both the trade

and the professioA. (Renumber)

Article VIII, Section 4-C: add 3. De8taiTrade and Laboratory Relations

Committee

~ Membership: ThiS Committee shall consist of twelve members

LrKluding one representative from each component society and foue

members at large appointed to serve for four years on a rotating basis

26 Virginia Dental Journal

by the President of the Assogi'!.tion. b. Duties: The duties of this Committee shall inclu_de the followlilll The

encouragement and development of harmoniousrelations witb..lhe

various organizationsrepresenting the d_ental trade.fLnd laboratories an9

the maintenance of high ethical and le-9Ql2!andards pf bottLlbe trade

and the profession

72. Adopt1ld as amended the following resolution:

Whereas, the Virginia Dental Association believes that mediation and

arbitration are sound alternatives to settling disputes as they are more

efficient, fairer, and less costly than litigation.

Be it resolved that, the Virginia Dental Association endorse the study of

mediation and arbitration in health care that is being conducted by the

Dispute Resolution Center in Norfolk, Virginia, under the aegis of the

Better Business Bureau of Nortolk, Virginia.

73. Adopted the following resolution:

Whereas, several foundations have been established which are

associated with the Virginia Dental Association but are not directly

accountable to it and whereas, the financial inlorrnation of these

foundations is important to VDA members, it is hereby resolved that the

financial audit report of these foundations be published in the House of

Delegates manual for the VDA Annual Meeting.

74. Adopted as amended the following resolution:

Be it resolved that resolutions with budgetary impact should clearly

state the financial implications.

75. Adopted as amended the following resolution:

Whereas the VDA endorses the right of every patient to have assign

ment of dental benefits when covered by a third party dental benefits

company, Whereas the VDA opposes prohibition of assignment of

benefits by any third party dental benefits company, Therefore be it

resolved that the VDA make its opposition known by letters to the

appropriate insurers and the Virginia Insurance Commission and

Therefore be it further resolved that the VDA actively pursue legislative

remedies.

76. Defeateg the following resolution:

The Delegation of Component IV recommends that the Virginia Dental

Association have the 2003 Annual Meeting in Richmond, Virginia.

n. Adopted the following resolution:

Resolved, that the Virginia Dental Association Annual Meeting

Committee is directed to develop policy for the VDA Annual Meeting

concerning exhlbitors, exhibits, and associated matters using the ADA

prospectus as a model.

78. Adopted as amended the follOWing resolution:

Be it resolved that the Virginia Dental Association supports, in principle,

a dental coalition aimed at educating dentists and dental hygienists

about the problems of child abuse and neglect, teaching them to

recognize the signs of abuse and neglect, and informing them of their

ethical and legal responsibilities in reporting suspected cases.

Coalition members: Delta Dental as corporate sponsor has first right of

refusal to serve, VDA, Virginia Hygienists Association, Commonwealth

Hygienists Society, Virginia Bureau of Child Protective Services, Virginia

Division of Dental Health, Dental Schools and Hygiene Program.

Prevent Abuse and Neglect through Dental Awareness (P.A.ND.A.) is

the successful model program in Missouri.

79. Adopted a recommendation that a standing committee be created

for elections with representation from each component.

80. The follOWing were submitted for life membership: Component 1

Doctors Henry P. Barham, Calvin L. Belkov, William S. Cabell, Roger H.

Flagg. William M. Fulgham, Thomas U. Hopkins, Robert M. Rubin.

Component 2 - Doctors, Erwin G. Cogen, Alfred J. Gross, Mayer G.

Levy. Component 4 - Doctors William D. Covington, Marshall G.

England, Jr., Robert G. Evans, Robert J. Isaacson, Joseph B. Johnson,

Emory R. Thomas. Raymond E. Weddle, William C. Williams. Compo

nent 5 - Doctors Raymond A. Hamden, John E. Higgins, William W.

Joness, Charles R. Sydnor, .Jr., Gordon R. Woody, Jr., Guy E. Young.

Component 6 - Doctors R. Douglas Humphrey, Jr.. Jack S. Hurley.

Robert G. Moore, Harold P Rerrunas Edward E. Rorrer Compnonent 7

- Doctors Thomas E. Burke, Charles L. Halstead. Lewis D Tamkin

John F. Wolfe. Jr., Jack D. Bledsoe. Companont 8 - Doctors Henry' M.

Botuck, Charles M. Bess. Wallce W Edens. John P Forest. E. Clyde

Hoezler, .Jerrniah J. Kelliher. .Jr., Thomas F. Kern. Marvin Klavans Harry

J. Montgomery, William J. Root John S Rushton. Roy E Stanfo'rd. Jr.

Irving H. Wagman. Wlllla'1l Wallert. James 0 Wiley. Phillip M. Wine.

George B. Zacko.

EXECUTIVE

COUNC~L ACT~ONS IN

BRlEF

SEPTEMBER 24 AND 28, 1997 (Reflects only those items 119J included in the House of Delegates report) 1. Referred to the Constitution & Bylaws Committee a recommendation th~t the History and Necrology Committee be dissolved as an Administrative Standing Committee of the Virginia Dental Association and that the duties previously assigned to the Committee be incorporated into the duties of the VDA Secretary/Treasurer 2. Referred to the Planning Committee a recommendation that the Committee develop a policy governing the Electoral Process. 3. Received as information only information regarding the Delta brochure on Direct Reimbursement. 4. &-RLoved the following resolution: The Executive Council expresses extreme concern about inaccuracies in Delta Dental of Virginia's brochure on Direct Reimbursement. It directs the officers, staff and appropriate committees to take strong action against this inaccurate document. 5. Approve.d that the Executive Council direct the Direct Reimbursement Committee to formulate a "commonly asked questions" and "common misconceptions about Direct Reimbursement" rebuttal statement for use by component officers and component Direct Reimbursement Committees. 6. Received as information QI}jy a recommendation that a policy governing the Electoral Process be referred to the Planning Committee. 7. 6R.J2roved the re-election of Dr. Daniel E. Grabeel as Chairman. 8. Approved the re-election of Dr. David C. Anderson as Vice Chairman.

9. tWQL9yed the reappointment of Dr Emory R. Thomas as Parliamentarian. 1O.6p..PJoved as ilmen.d~c:j a recommendation that the VDA adopt the insurance complaint form, developed by the Legislative Committee, for Internal use and send a cover letter and copy of forms to the membership in a mailing with other materials at a prudent time. 11.Approved a recommendation that the Legislative Committee strongly supports the Reference Committee 2000. The Legislative Committee also urges the VDA to oppose differential payments to participants and non-participants in health insurance plans in Virginia. 12.6QQrove.d a recommendation that the VDA submit a letter to the Point of Service Task Force urging them to recommend requirement of honoring assignment of benefits in legislation to be introduced by them. Also, the VDA leadership meet with the Medical Society of Virginia leadership to attempt to develop joint support and a coalition to support assignment of benefits legislation. 13.Approved a recommendation that the VDA investigate the possibility of establishing a dental hygiene program at Blue Ridge Community College. 14.Ii!bled definitillY to the Executive Council meeting, at the November Leadership Conference, the Legislative Committee's recommendation of endorsement concerning Amendment 54.1-2702 of the Code of Virginia.

fvUNUTES OF THE 128TH ANNUAL BUSrNESS r\ltEET~NG SEPTEMBER 28, 1997 The 128th Annual Membership Meeting of the Virginia Dental Association was held at The Hotel Roanoke, Roanoke, Virginia on Sunday, September 28, 1997. President William H. Allison called the meeting to order at 9:00am in the Roanoke Ballroom. Dr. Raleigh H. Watson, Jr. delivered the invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance was led by President Allison. Dr. Charles L. Cuttino III, Secretary-Treasurer, presided over the InMemoriam Ceremony. The following deceased members were recognized: Dr. Milton A. Clark - Component 1 Dr. Paul G. Moerschell, Jr. - Component 1 Dr. Wesley A. Boatwright - Component 2 Dr. Ronald E. Godby - Component 2 Dr. Ralph B. Snead - Component 2 Dr. William C. Brokaw - Component 4 Dr. Michael S. Sanford - Component 4 Dr. Norwood B. Woodard, Sr. - Component 4 Dr Milton A. Owens - Component 5 Dr. C. Rodney Richard - Component 6 Dr. William J. Clement - Component 7 Dr. Edward Cowan - Component 7 Dr. James C. Smith - Component 7 Dr. John G. Wall - Component 7 Dr. Donald E. Callar - Component 8 Dr. Raymond W. Herndon - Component 8 Dr. John A. Kurry, Jr. - Component 8 Dr. Harry B. Weiner - Component 8 Dr Byron C Woodside - Component 8 President Allison Introduced the followmq guests: Dr. D. Gregory Chadwick, ADA 16th District Trustee: Dr. Carle W Mason, North Carolina Dental Society: Christina Allison: Holly Allison and Dr. Edward M. OKeefe. Annual Meeting Chairman

Dr. Edward M. O'Keefe reported on the 1997 VDA Annual Meeting and presented the attendance for the meeting as follows: Dentists 400 Assistants 133 Hygienists 80 Other Office Staff 67 Spouses 129 Dental Students 10 Exhibitors 275 Other Staff 36 1130 Dr. AI Griffin, VADPAC Chairman, reported on contributions received ($133,935.00) and acknowledged Dr. William Allison, Dr. Les Webb, Chuck Duvall, William Zepp and Lisa Finnerty for work done on behalf of the Association and VADPAC. Dr. Jackson Payne, Chairman of the Pierre Fauchard Academy, presented the Pierre Fauchard Scholarship Award to Christa Ellenberger. a rising Senior at MCV; Allison Smith, a rising Junior at MCV, was presented with the Clinic Day Award. Dr. Raleigh H. Watson, Jr. was presented the Pierre Fauchard Achievement Award. Dr. Jeffrey Levin. Campaign Chair, reported on the MCV campaign and presented recognition plaques. To date, 2.9 million dollars has been raised. Dr. Woody Mason brought greetings from the North Carolina Dental Society. Dr. David C. Anderson. Chairman of the VDA Fellows Committee. presented certificates to the 1997 VDA Fellows (see attached list). Dr. Charles L. Cuttino III, VDA Secretary- Treasurer. presented certifi足 cates to the 50- Year. 50-Year and Life Members (see attached list).

ROANOKE:THE MEETING

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Scholarship Award winner Christa Ellenberger Joins MCV Dean Lindsay Hunt, President Elect Ray Meade, and President Jackson Payne at the Pierre Fauchard Academy Luncheon

Newly-inductee members of the Pierre Fauchard Academy include (from l-r): Drs. Ralph Howell (1); Robert Levine (8); Dave Wilson (6); Norman Marks (4); Kim Swanson (4); Don Cherry (2); Jack Dunlevy (4); and Elliott Osborne.

The 1997 Trade Show included approximately 100 booths and displays.

Christina and Will Allison hosted the President's Banquet and Dance.

Congratulations to the 1997 class of VDA Fellows. Pictured are (l-r): Drs

John Bell (8); AI Griffin (8): Jim Baker (1); John Kittrell (4); Jim Evans (5)

Tom Littrell (6): Stuart Oglesby (2): Guy Levy (2); and Dandridge Allen (7)

Debbie and Gus Vlahos and Imogene and Wally Huff display their Western finery during Friday's BBQ and dance

Members of the VMI Glee Club provided special entertainment during the President's Banquet

28 Virginia Dental Journal

FUNDING YOUR PENSION PLAN

WITH THE VALUE OF YOUR PRACTICE

ou' ve done it. You've built a suc cessful practice, you own a big house and drive a nice car. You've raised your kids and provided them with a good edu cation. You are probably in your mid-to late forties or early fifties. You've climbed the proverbial mountain and you have slain all the dragons you care to. You still enjoy practicing your profession, although it's probably not as exciting asit used to be. Those little problems of owning and oper ating a practice continue to annoy you.

house may still have a substantial mort gage. You figure you need to practice for at least another ten years or so just to make ends meet and that puts you even closer to retirement age, so where can you get the money you need for your pension plan? Your practice! It is one asset that can be liquidated now and the value of your prac tice utilized to fund your pension plan. But wait a minute, you need to continue to practice, so how can you sell your practice? AFfCO's Pre-Sale Program is the answer. You can cash in on the value of your practice now and continue to practice for five, ten or even fifteen years (you deter mine the number of years). This unique program will allow you to contribute that money to your pension plan, for your

paid on interest, and that money in your pension plan begins to grow atarapid rate. By the time you are ready to retire, the money you received for the value of your practice could grow by two, three and even four times the present value of your prac tice. That compounded value should more than adequately provide for your retire ment, and you did not have to compromise your life-style.

Now, suppose you decide to do nothing and continue on as you have been. You will work another ten years or so (provided You've done better than most. Your friends you don't die or become disabled in the and colleagues hold you in high regard. interim), and you probably still won't have Your family appreciates how you have provided for them over the years. Not a the money set aside for retirement. So you bad track record, and you have reason to be might try to lower your standard of living proud. However, there may be one very to save money. You may begin by selling important item that was your house and moving compromised in your into a smaller one. The questto provide so much problem is, it will also be ...the value of your practice could grow by for so many ... your pen more difficult at that age two, three and even four times to maintain today's level sionplan. of production. As a re the present value of your practice You figured out how to sult, your income may get into practice and be a begin to drop as well. benefit only (no staff contributions). You success. Now, at your age, it's time to figure There goes the extra money for retirement, can get a lot more details about this pro out how you can get out of practice... alive. even after you lower your standard of gram when you speak to an AFfCO ana You don't want to practice until you die living. lyst. because you can not afford to retire. You don't want death to be your reward for a The only option leftis to work until you die. You might ask, just how much is my prac lifetime of providing for others. You want If you die, you have life insurance to take tice worth? Practice values vary greatly, a chance to enjoy life now... to enjoy free care of your estate. If you get sick and with rural specialty practices on the low end dom from stress and quality of life. cannot work, however, that is a whole of the scale and general (primary care) different picture (and not a very pretty practices in large metropolitan areas on the It takes a great deal of money to do this. one). You would not believe the number of upper end. You can assume your practice However, chances are you are working as doctors I've seen retire over the years that is worthsomew here between fifty to ninety hard as you want at this stage in your life, did so just hoping they would die before percent of one year's gross revenues! We're and you are probably spending almost all their money ran out! talking about real dollars that can be used your earni ngs just to maintai n your present to fund your retirement. life-style. Putting money away for retire This does not have to happen to you, how ment is a great idea, provided it does not ever, because you can do something about Now what happens next is really interest require you to work longer hours or lower it. You can continue your present income, ing. Once AFfCO completes this program your current standard of living. fund your retirement plan and improve for you and the money begins to flow, the your quality of life NOW. Don't put it off, miracle of compound interest takes over. You may still have to incur some future call AFfCO Associates today to arrange for Interest is paid on principal and interest is college expenses for your children, and the a consultation. You will be glad you did!

Find out the value of your practice... call AFTCO today to receive a

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1 (800) 232·3826

President Allison recognized the 1996-1997 Component Presidents and thanked them for their support during his year as president. President Allison called for Old Business. Hearing none. he called for New Business. President Allison called for the election of officers for 1997-1998. Dr. Ronald L. Tankersley explained the election process. indicating that voters must cast a ballot listing the exact number of candidates for the available positions in each category. A motion to return to traditional balloting methods, allowing short balloting and target voting, be allowed was defeated. Dr. Charles L. Cuttino III was nominated for the position of President-Elect. There being no other nominees, Dr. Cuttino was elected by acclamation. Dr. Thomas S. Cooke III was nominated for the position of Secretary-Treasurer. There being no other nominees, Dr. Cooke was elected by acclamation. Drs. David C. Anderson, Andrew J. Zimmer and Richard D. Barnes were nominated for the two (2) positions of VDA At-Large Councilor for a two year term. Drs. Anderson and Zimmer were elected. Drs. M. Joan Gillespie and Leslie S. Webb, Jr. were nominated for the two (2) positions of ADA Delegate for a three year term 1998足 2000. There being no other nominees, Drs. Gillespie and Webb were elected by acclama足 tion. Drs. Richard D. Barnes, Charles French II, Lindsay M. Hunt, Jr., Bruce R. Hutchison, and Andrew J. Zimmer were nominated for the three (3) positions of ADA Alternate Delegate for a two year term 1998-1999. Drs. Hunt, Hutchison and Zimmer were elected. Dr. Richard H. Wood was nominated for the At-Large Councilor position vacated by Dr. Cooke for a one year term Dr. Wood was elected by acclamation. Drs. David C. Anderson, Gus C. Vlahos and William J. Viglione were nominated for the two (2) by virtue ADA Alternate Delegate positions for a one year term. Drs. Anderson and Vlahos were elected. Dr. D. Gregory Chadwick, 16th District Trustee, installed the VDA officers and component presidents for 1997 - 1998. VD8..J )ff IC er;; President Dr. Wallace L. Huff President-Elect Dr. Charles L. Cuttino III Secretary-Treasurer Dr. Thomas S Cooke III Councilors-At-Large Dr. David C. Anderson Dr. Richard H Wood Dr. Andrew J Zimmer

30 Virginia Dental Journal

Component Presidents: Dr. James W. Baker Dr. Guy G. Levy Dr. John M. Bass Dr. Gary R. Hartwell Dr. Frank C. Crist, Jr. Dr. William B. Thompson Dr. Gerald J. Brown Dr. Kirk M. Norbo

Component 1 Component 2 Component 3 Component 4 Component 5 Component 6 Component 7 Component 8

President Allison passed the gavel to President-Elect Wallace L. Huff. President Huff presented a presidential pin and plaque to Immediate Past President Allison and presented a gift to Christina Allison, thanking them both for their service to the Virginia Dental Association. Their business concluded, the Annual Membership Meeting adjourned at 11:4 7am.

Component 1 Dr. James W. Baker Component 2 Dr. William R. Parks Dr. J. Stuart Oglesby Dr. Guy G. Levy Component 4 Dr John S. Kittrell Component 5 Dr. James R. Evans Component 6 Dr. Thomas W. Littrell Component 7 Dr. Dandridge B. Allen Component 8 Dr. Alfred C. Griffin, Jr. Dr. John A. Bell, Jr. Fifty Year Certificates Component 1 Dr. Odilon P. Delcambre Dr. Vernie C. Lawrence Dr. Paul E. Nolan Dr. Hugo A. Owens Dr. Jackson E. Shelton Dr. Brodie M. Williams, Jr. Component 4 Dr. Sim Chappelle Dr. Daniel M. Laskin Dr. Walter M. Ormes, Jr. Dr. John N. Pastore Dr. FB. Wiebusch Component 5 Dr. Fred B. Cornett Dr. Byron M. John Component 6 Dr. Charles R. Crews Component 8 Dr. Ralph B. Holmes Dr. Charles P O'Hara, Jr.

Component 1 Dr. Norman G. Sedel Component 4 Dr. Claud Rodgers Armistead Dr. Woodrow C Henderson Component 7 Dr. Douglas Quentin Hardy Component 8 Dr. Harry Aks Dr. Irving H Rosen

Component 1 Dr Henry P. Barham Dr. Calvin L. Belkov Dr. William S. Cabell Dr. Roger H. Flagg Dr. William M. Fulgham Dr. Thomas U Hopkins Dr. Robert M. Rubin Component 2 Dr. Erwin G. Cogen Dr. Alfred J. Gross Dr. Mayer G. Levy Component4 Dr. William D. Covington Dr Marshall G. England. Jr. Dr. Robert G. Evans Dr. Robert J. Isaacson Dr. Joseph B. Johnson Dr. Emory R Thomas Dr. Raymond E. Weddle Dr. William C. Williams Component 5 Dr. Raymond A. Hamden Dr. John E. Higgins Dr. William W. Joness Dr. Charles R. Sydnor, Jr. Dr. Gordon R. Woody, Jr. Dr. Guy E. Young Component 6 Dr. R. Douglas Humphrey, Jr. Dr. Jack SHurley Dr. Robert G. Moore Dr. Harold P. Remines Dr. Edward E. Rorrer Component 7 Dr. Thomas E. Burke Dr. Charles L. Halstead Dr. Lewis D. Tamkin Dr. John F Wolfe, Jr. Component 8 Dr. Jack D. Bledsoe Dr. Henry M. Botuck Dr. Charles M. Bress Dr. Wallace W. Edens Dr. John P. Forest Dr. E. Clyde Hoelzer Dr Jermiah J. Kelliher, Jr. Dr. Thomas F Kern Dr. Marvin Klavans Dr. Harry J. Montgomery Dr. William J. Root Dr. John S Rushton Dr. Roy E. Stanford, Jr Dr. Irving H. Wagman Dr. William Wallert Dr. James 0 Wiley Dr. Phillip M. Wine Dr. George B. Zacko

Membership Benefit Highlight: Financial Services by Kimberly S. Swanson, D.D.S., VDA Membership Task Force Organized dentistry provides its members with the

opportunity to take advantage of a variety of financial

services. The ADA has established a member-driven,

member-focused financial services product line called the

ADA 1 Plan. This plan was developed through the

Mellon Bank Corporation to provide top quality financial

services to ADA members at competitive rates. Partici

pants have access to the following banking and invest

ment products:

*Gold Mastercard with Travel Returns mileage program;

*Business credit card;

*Student loans;

*Federal HEAL Consolidation Loans;

*Merchant card services;

*Personal and home equity credit lines;

*Residential mortgages;

*Dreyfus Mutual Funds, asset management, and discount

brokerage services; *Certificates of Deposit; *Money Market accounts; • *Investment consulting; and Convenience banking pack ages including checking with interest, Master Money; *Debit Card, and overdraft protection.

*Supplemental Auto Rental Collision Coverageuptothe full value of the rental car; and *Employment-related HIV Supplemental Income Protec tion up to $300,000 at no additional cost. To get more information, or to apply for the MBNA Mastercard, simply call 1-800-847-7378. Support the only card that supports the VDA and take advantage of this exclusive membership benefit. For more information on the many benefits of member ship, call the ADA at 312-440-2500, or use the mem bers-only 800 number listed on the back of your mem bership card. You are also invited to call the Virginia Dental Association at 804-358-4927, or in-state toll free at 1-800-552-3886. Membership matters!

Additionally, now there is a new ADA 1 Plan Student

Mastercard for student members of the ADA. There is no

annual fee, and no income requirements are necessary

to qualify.

ADA members can access all services offered through

the ADA 1 Plan by call one toll-free number: 1-800-767

PLAN (7526). This number provides access to represen

tatives who can give information, open accounts, or

service existing accounts. Automated services such as

current interest rate information are also available by

calling this toll-free number established for the exclusive

use of ADA members.

The Virginia Dental Association also endorses the MBNA

Mastercard. This card is only available to VDA members.

Benefits of having an MBNA card include:

*No annual fee;

*MasterAssist for medical, legal or other emergency

network referral assistance 24-hours a day; *Gold Passage Travel Service; *Response to credit line increase requests in 30 minutes; *MasterPurchase retail protection service, which insures most Gold Card purchases up to 90 days and doubles most manufacturer's written U.S. warranties for qualifying items for up to one year; Supplemental lost checked luggage protection up to $3,000;

Dr. Manny Michaels presents Dr. G.P. Delcembre of Portsmouth his 50-year member certificate.

The presence of Sixty Year Member Award recipients Dr. w.e. Henderson of Richmond and Dr. Doug Handy of Bedford made Sunday's Business Meeting a special occasion.

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Elizabeth Keith is the new Membership Coordinator at the Virginia Dental Association. Raised in Richmond, Elizabeth graduated from Guilford College in Greensboro, NC and headed for the mountains of Colorado. After spending the last three years in Breckenridge, Liz returned home this summer to find a "real job." Fortunately, the VDA found her and she joined the staff on July 28, taking over the membership duties from Amy Fulton-Snearer, who was transferred to San Diego, CA * In addition to membership duties and work with the statewide task force, Elizabeth is also responsible for the §: Annual Meeting Trade ~ Show and the registration ~ process. She very successfully completed these major activities while on the "real job" for less than two months. A friendly personality, positive attitude and willingness to assist the membership makes Elizabeth a great addition to the VDA. Membership Coordinator Elizabeth Keith answersanothermemberinquiry.

• Amy Fulton-Snearer recentlyacceptedthe position of membership coordinator at the La Costa Resort in San Diego Congratulations!

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Tanya Moore joined the Virginia Dental Association staff on August 18 as Coordinator for the new Donated Dental Services project. An Appomattox native and Virginia Tech graduate, Tanya taught high school English for the past three years in Lynchburg, where she also coached the Girls Tennis Team. Donated DentalServicesProject In early September, Tanya Coordinator Tanya Mooreand spent a week in training at the AnnualMeeting Chair Mike O'Keefe at the Annual Meeting. National Foundation of Dentistry for the Handicapped offices in Denver to familiarize herself with the DDS operations. Since returning, with the help of a letter from Governor Allen, she has recruited almost two hundred dentists throughout Virginia for the project and has qualified over thirty patients for treatment under DDS auspices. You can expect to see Tanya at Component meetings this year, recruiting additional volunteers for DDS. An energetic, positive addition to the VDA Staff, you may contact Tanya and Donated Dental Services at (804) 257 -9810.

DONATED DENTAL SERVICES (DDS)

DONATED DENTAL SERVICES (DDS) Our country's standard of dental care is the highest in the world, yet those Americans most desperately in need often go un served. Among the factors restricting access to dental care for millions of disabled and elderly Americans, paying for treatment is the most serious barrier. As you are aware, Medicaid does not provide dental benefits for adult recipients. The first DDS program started in Denver, Colorado in 1985 to help disabled and elderly persons who are indigent by matching them with volunteer dentists. Most participating dentists agree to treat one or two people per year with seriously neglected dental prob lems. Participating dental laboratories also donate services for crowns, bridges, and dentures. There are three baSIC eligibility criteria for applicants. To be eligible. a prospective patient must meet all three, as follows: 1)The patient must be disabled, chronically ill, or elderly. The condition must be permanent and must prohibit or signifi cantly limit employment. 2)The patient must not be unable to pay for their own dental treatment. Further, they must have no other sources for assistance - they have no family members who can assist them and must not be eligible for help from any other dental care agency. 3)The patient must need extensive dental treatment. This means that they know that they need more than a cleaning and check-up.

32 Virginia Dental Journal

Once an applicant is found eligible efforts are made to match the patient with a volunteer general dentists in his/her area. The general dentist then determines the plan of treatment and referrals which may need to be made. If a specialist is needed, the patient is matched with a volunteer specialist in their area. This process continues until all of the patient's current dental needs are treated. Volunteer dental laboratories also volunteer or discount their services to provide the lab work which many DDS patients will require. Volunteer dentists will not absorb the cost of lab work. The interaction and transition between patient. general dentist, specialist, and lab will be coordinated by the DDS Project Coordinator. Governor George Allen was most likely the first source intro ducing the Donated Dental Services (DDS) program to you through his letter endorsing the project and asking you to volunteer for the program. Since this letter continued efforts to promote the project have been made through brochures and communication with DDS Project Coordinator, Tanya Moore. Tanya Moore coordinates the DDS project at the VDA office. DDS IS located at the VDA office and the DDS direct line IS (804)257-9810 All calls pertaining to DDS shouid be made to this number. Feel free to call with any remaining questions or future suggestions. Don't hesitate to call to volunteer for the program by phone. (0 . . The Donated Dental S . '" ,ervlces OS) IS posslbto through fund. illg f rom t he Virginia Health C r : ' . are, ounoanon which is a nonprofit foundation created to promote and fund innovative public

private health projects. The Virginia General Assembly provides funding forthe Virginia Health Care Foundation. The Capital Area Agency on Aging has contributed funding to DDS in order to have thirty of their applicants treated through the program. Supplemen tal funds and support are provided by the Virginia Dental Associa tion.

SIX MAJOR

ADVANTACiES

TO BECOMINCi

There has been a great response to recruiting efforts. At present, 175 dentists have returned their reply volunteer cards agreeing to see at least one patient per year through DDS. In fact, most dentists have agreed to see more patients each year. The goal for the program is to recruit at least 300 dentists in Virginia. Of the 175 volunteers to date, 42 dentists are not Virginia Dental Association members. The breakdown by component for remaining volunteer dentists is as follows: Component I 21 Component II 15 Component III 3 Component IV 29 Component V 14 Component VI 10 Component VII 11 Component VIII 30

AN ARMY

DENTIST.

If you have not already returned your reply card, please do so. There is an overwhelming need for DDS due to the absence of other dental treatment outlets which provide comprehensive dental treatment for elderly, disabled, and medically-compro mised patients. Everyone deserves a healthy, beautiful smile!

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Educational Foundation by Ralph L. Howell, Jr., Chairman Virginia Dental Association Educational Foundation The VDA Educational Foundation is a 501(c)3 Corporation oper ating within the Commonwealth of Virginia. The Foundation was founded in 1996 for the purpose of providing quality dental edu cation and to improve the oral health of the citizens of Virginia. Currently, the Foundation provides grants to component societies of the Virginia Dental Association to help augment the statewide program of Continuing Education. This program allows members to attend educational programs at a nominal fee.

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Another Foundation program is the Donated Dental Services (DDS) project. This program will bring dental services to those who can not afford treatment. To date over one hundred fifty dentists have signed up to help in this program. The Foundation receives its funding through donations by the

Youwon't have to make the initial investment it takes to set up a dental practice. No continuing investment in manpower and devoting the time it takes to maintain a staff. Army dentists spend their full working days doing what they are trained for-practicing dentistry. The Army trains enlisted dental assistants and hires trained civilians to be part of the dental team. You'll have an opportunity to practice your pro fession here or abroad in the most up-to-date facilities imaginable. Ifyou are so inclined, teach ing opportunities exist. Beyond professional rewards are the emotional ones. As a dentist and an officer treating sol diers, your days will be spent in the service of your country. 1\ "_"

T10 __

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Independent Practice Associations (IPAs)

Fred Coots. DDS, Chairman, Dental Benefits Programs Committee

Many of our 2,900 members practice in Northern Virginia. The lush rolling hills and the prosperous blend of government and private employment once beckoned people from all over the country to our state. But in the last few years, the era of big government shows signs of coming to an end, job growth has slowed and dentistry in the northern part of the state has felt the economic pressure of the managed care industry. Private patients fee for service patients - are vanishing like an endangered species. Preferred Provider organizations and Health Management Organizations are drying up the patient pool. Terms like "network" and "point of service". HMO and PPO are becoming common in our patients vocabularies. Everyone of us knows PPOs and HMOs are the offspring of gigantic insurance companies masquerading as "watchdogs of medical costs." The "watchdog" moniker is a politically correct cliche hiding the evil twins of third party payments today: high profits for insurance carriers and questionable quality in health care. In all of the healing arts, dentistry is the most vulnerable to this onslaught of insurance company restructur ing. Independent spirited dentists have willfully kept them selves close to their patients with small private practices that accept what insurance their patients present. But the patients are relying on insurance that won't meet the 60 to 70 percent fixed-cost overhead of the typical $200,000-a-year dental practice. The math is not hard to follow. An HMO that demands 20% discount is asking the dentist to cut his livelihood by half. What chance does the individual practitio ner, group partnership, or private dental corporation have today? Well, today there may be hope, there may be promise. Today there may be a tool for us to collectively fight back, to curb the dominance of insurers over our profession, to strengthen our negotiating stance with the HMO and Preferred Provider vendors. It is called the Independent Practice Association. "IPA" for short. It goes by other names as well: Independent Physicians Associations or Organizations, Individual Practice Association, Individual Physicians Association, Physicians Network, or simply "PO" for Physician Organization. It's all the same. By any name, the IPA occupies a critical piece of ground in the territorial conflict between insurance companies and the health care professions. An IPA is in no-man's land. an in-between state, a buffer zone where it can be a peaceful advantage to both dentists and insurers alike. An IPA is an intermediary around which productive negotiations can flourish. An IPA is a lawful way for isolated professional dental practices like ours to band together to negotiate fees and to deliver high standards of treatment quality.

34 Virginia Dental Journal

"How can this be?" you ask. Everyone knows the one taboo subject of every Virginia Dental Association meeting: no discussion of fee levels, no chit-chat, not even a furtive whisper about what you charge patients. The reason has been well established for a hundred years. since the Sherman Anti-Trust act was made law in 1890. Price cartels or any hint of them is strictly illegal. Never mind that HMOs and PPOs may be the largest form of purchasing collusion to restrict competition this economy has ever seen, we little guys can not talk about our prices amongst each other. As a legal form, Independent Practice Associations have been around for almost sixty years. But its earliest forms were for small medical practices to buy supplies at bulk discounts that only hospitals and other large-volume buyers were entitled to. But now, IPAs are acting as the legal vessel for an entirely different voyage. Medical practices and hospi tals allover the country are re-discovering the IPA as a legitimate and lawful vehicle to speak for their collective interests with insurance companies, PPOs and HMOs. What does an IPA look like? Well, it looks an awful lot like a small insurance company that separate individual dental practices own and run. There is an office with an administrator/ salesperson who solicits dental care contracts with PPOs and HMOs or insurance companies. What you need to understand at the outset is that the IPA staffers are not your "employees" but a separate third party. In legal parlance, your IPA is a "messenger," not an employee. Your IPA arrangement can be of the "exclusive" or "non-exclusive" sort. It simply means you can funnel all your PPO or HMO contracts through the "exclusive" IPA. Or, under the non-exclusive type, you can funnel some through the IPA and others to your own practice alone. Today, alilPAs in dentistry are non-exclusive. Sharing price information with your fellow IPA member dentist is a blind canvassing process with some delicate guidelines. There must be at least three dentists in the IPA no one of which is more than 25% of the contract or whose tees are even identifiable in the quote. There is another big rule: billing and collection must be handled buy the IPA, not your individual office, and any pricing information you use in a contract quote must have been in use for three months or more. Furthermore, while there can be no fewer than three dentists in an IPA in any relevant geographic market, no more than 30% of the dentists in a market can participate in an IPA. No member is allowed to just tag along - all must share the financial risks of the IPA which are considerable and I will address more of the financial hazard in a moment. Dentistry is at least five years behind the other medical specialties in forming Independent Practice Associa tions. VDA Past-President Will Allison asked our committee to research IPAs and present It here. My nearly barren blue-fish trips to Hatteras every Fall for twenty years have yielded up a better catch than our research. At last count by the ADA. there were only 28 dental IPAs spread across 19 states.

However rarely applied to dentistry, IPAs are working for other doctors, medical groups, and even hospitals. How can they work for Virginia dentists? Well, the first advantage the IPA form offers us is the opportunity for real wet-gloved dentists to craft our own dental benefit plan, instead of the insurance representa tive doing it for us. Our standards of treatment excellence, our benefit design, our control of the profession is in our hands where it ought to be for the patients sake. Networked together in an IPA, we have a ready-to market directory of dentists to sell to other insurance companies. That's the second big advantage. Think of the years of work it has taken major dental insurance companies to stitch together a patchwork quilt of dentists to blanket dental care in the state. If we coalesced under an IPA framework we could approach lots of other insurance companies - not just the major companies that dominate the state right now. That means serious bargaining leverage for us, our fees, and our reimbursement procedures. Imagine being an insurance executive who is approached by hundreds of dentists in Virginia with a fully worked out benefit plan for dental care across a whole state. Would you take a look at it? Of course you would. This translates to leverage by the IPA for Virginia dentists in the world of insurance. You can read into this the third and most obvious advantage of an IPA: an immediate expansion of the patient pool. Whether a PPO, or a HMO~ or a standard fee-for-service insurance arrangement, the IPA directory for participating would be provided to all plan participants, a source of doctor-to-doctor referrals as well. You will be back on the patients' list, rather than wondering if you should join every HMO that comes down the Leesburg Pike. Now, IPAs have problems as well as opportunities and I want to lay them on the line. IPAs have a good and a bad. There just never seems to be a "heads" without a "tails." Before anyone tosses the coin in IPAs, you need to understand the flip side. The IPA is a third-party payer whose policies and procedures for subscribing patients may be an intrusion on your practice. You have to ask yourself if the IPA you help create appears more or less intrusive than the third-party payers you deal with now. At the very least, you could count on complex fee structures under an IPA, and I don't know whether you would see that as good or bad. You see, an IPA may negotiate different fee structures with different PPOs, different capitation fees with different HMOs, different tables of allowances with different insurance companies. A second disadvantage to an IPA are the lawyers. There would be a contract between you and the IPA and you are going to need a lawyer to advise you on your rights and obliga tions under contract. The IPA needs licenses to do business and a letter of approval for the Justice Department only an attorney can apply for. And, by law. only 30% of the dentists in any given market can join an IPA. Remember I mentioned the Sherman Anti-Trust Act? Well, in the on-going practice under an IPA format, there is a tedious list of "Don'ts" only a lawyer could love. But you had better have a lawyer holding your hand to keep you out of jail for violating anti-trust law.

tion. As an IPA member, you have the individual right and power to accept or reject that particular contract. You can reject the contract and still stay in the IPA. Sounds good, right? Well, be careful to make your decision in total private. Don't call your dentist friend across town and ask him what he thinks. You will both go to jail for that kind of collusion. The IPA itself is not even allowed to tell you "everybody's on board on this one." Nobody likes their lawyer until they are in deep trouble, and an IPA will teach you to love your lawyer. Will Allison is acutely aware of the prison term handed down to the head of the Kansas City dental society for a breach of anti-trust, and Will cautions me that he doesn't ever want the VDA to pass out bumper stickers that say "Free Willie!" The final disadvantage to an IPA is money. There are 30 to 50 thousand dollars of legal bills to start a 30 dentist IPA in a given locality. Once started, there are more bills to come. There is malpractice insurance to buy because an IPA can be held liable for dental treatment for any of its members. Then seed money must be there to pay an administrator to solicit and negotiate benefit contracts with large employers and HMOs. Remember the IPA is a third party payer. There will be an accounting staff hired to handle billing and disbursements. Are you beginning to get the picture? An IPA is a business controlled by its dentist members, but a business nonetheless. This mini-insurance company has to make money to survive so the IPA might take up to 15% off the top of each contract to sustain itself. This point about the IPA being a business leads me to my concluding observations and recommendations. Of all I have learned since Past-President Will Allison gave us this educational assignment, the most difficult hurdle is getting one started. Like any new start-up enterprise, an IPA will consume - will immolate - the time and energy of its founders. Think of the focus and dedication that will be required to put this thing together. Are any of you willing to do that as an individual? And yet, can we as a profession afford not to learn more about IPAs and the recent hybridization of IPAs which allows large numbers of dentists to join the same IPA in a given state? An IPA offers us at least a hope that dentistry can belong to dentists again. The Dental Benefits Committee will continue its on going study of IPAs and report periodically to the Executive Council on the changes taking place in the world of IPAs. I hope you will agree we need to work as a profession to educate ourselves about Independent Practice Associations. Time, in our dynamic profession, can only mean change. Let us all support our VDA as it monitors the hybridization of IPAs and weighs the benefits for our state.

Because avoiding anti-trust violations is so important, I want to illustrate the cardinal no-no of IPAs with an example. Say your IPA, in which you have some financial risk, negotiated a deal with a large corporate client as a Preferred Provider Organiza Virnini::>

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Lindsay M. Hunt, D.D.S., PH.D.

To Step Down as Dean

On September 1, 1998. Dr. Lindsay Hunt, Dean and Harry Lyons Professor will step down as the 13 ' h dean of the Medical College of Virginia of Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry. Dr. Hunt's tenure as dean began in 1985. Over the next 13 years Dr. Hunt provided a challenging vision for the School that was outlined in the School's first strategic plan. This document provided faculty and staff with a blueprint for making his vision a reality. Dr Lindsay M. Hunt. Jr. Under his leadership the plan was implemented which included major renovations to the School's physical plant including the development of a state-of-the-art central sterilization instrument management/rental system, clinical renovations of all clinics except pediatric dentistry, and a recent renovation to the patient waiting/reception area. Along with these facilities updates, Dr. Hunt implemented programmatic changes as well including a major shift in the clinical education curriculum and the addition of two advanced education proqraras, the Advanced Education in General Dentistry and General Practice Residency programs. "All of these improvements were accomplished with the help of many faculty, said Dr. Hunt. It has been a rewarding struggle, but a struggle all the way. I am pleased that so many of the faculty recognized the need for these projects and participated in accomplishing them." In 1988 and again in 1996, Dr. Hunt and the faculty prepared for and passed two accreditation site visits from the Commission on Dental Accreditation. At the end of the 1996 site visit the Chair man Dr. David Meyer, Dean of the Medical College of Georgia School of Dentistry, commented that based upon their review, he would be proud to have his son or daughter attend such a fine School. While these institutional accomplishments were important, Dr. Hunt also recognized the need for acknowledging the faculty and staff for their efforts in support of the School's goals. Therefore, in 1989 Dr. Hunt instituted a part-time faculty recognition event during the Deans Holiday Party, and also initiated two staff recognition events, a New Years' breakfast and a June Staff picnic. There have been several noteworthy special events that have complimented the School of Dentistry over the past 13 years. In 1993, the School celebrated its Centennial anniversary with a year long schedule of events and culminated with a gala dinner dance with over 1,000 participants. In 1994, the School of Dentistry received national recognition when it was ranked as one of the top 15 dental school in the United States in a US News and World Report survey. In the area of development, the School's endowment grew from $4 Million to $9 Million which included the VDAlMCV Endowment Fund Campaign, the Centennial Cam paign, the development of four endowed professorships, the creation of the Malbon Garden, the concept and implementation of the Mobile Oral Health Clinic, and now the Campaign for the Institute for Oral and Craniofacial Molecular Biology.

Our Future" Campaign, and the development of the Institute and Department for Oral and Craniofacial Molecular Biology. This interdisciplinary center will become the flagship for research not only within the School of Dentistry, but for molecular biology for the entire health sciences campus. One of the things, I am most proud concerning the Campaign, is the dedicated group of volunteers who are contributing so much time and talent to making this Institute and Department a reality. I would be remiss if I did not also acknowledge the important role of organized dentistry in the continued growth of the School. Organized dentistry has provided the School with expertise and manpower, especially the VDA Legislative Committee, which has helped to secure the funds from the General Assembly needed to complete many of the renovations previously mentioned." While Dr. Hunt may be stepping down in September, he will remain active with both the Virginia Dental Association and the American Association of Dental Schools (AADS). Dr. Hunt will complete his one year term as the President of the AADS that will begin in March of 1998. Dr. Hunt will also stay active with the VDA, serving out his terms as ADA alternate delegate and member of the VDA Executive Council. "My final mission is to complete the fund raising for the Institute. We are fortunate to have Dr. Frank Macrina as the Director of the Institute for Oral and Craniofacial Molecular Biology. Dr. Macrina is a interna tionally known and respected scientist, with a great deal of enthusiasm and research expertise. He will provide excellent leadership for the Institute while conducting his own research," concluded Dr. Hunt. -submitted by Tom Burke

ViRGINIA BOARD OF

DENTiSTRY

July 1, 1997 - June 30 1998 The Virginia Board of Dentistry is appointed by the Governor and is composed of seven dentists two hygienists and one citizen representative Contact the Board office or a member of the Board on questions on rules and regulations. Mark A. Crabtree. DDS--President

French H Moore. Jr.. DDS--Vice-President

r~ora M. French. DMD

Monroe E Hams. Jr DDS

Michael J. Link. DDS

Edmund E Mullins. DDS

Gary Taylor, DDS

Carolyn B. l-iawkins. RDH

Stepnarue P Oleriic. RDH

Pat K. Watkirlo,

ST/\FT

Marcia ,J Miller. Executive Director

Parr. Horner. AOrTlinist:ali\/E' A.ssistdnj

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Filcr:rnCJr1C;, \/'P, ~~323n-17i---'

In reflection, Dean Hunt commented: "I am very excited about the potential of the "Excellence Through Research: An Investment In

Virginia Dental Journal 37

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D R NEWS

Women in Dentistry -

Dental Benefit Plan Survey In September, the Virginia Dental Association cooperatively with Benefits Administration, Inc. (BAI) surveyed approximately 1300 employers in an effort to identify companies with existing dental plans in place. Companies surveyed were selected from our current database of employers and the Dunn & Bradstreet listing of Virginia-based companies employing 100 or more individuals. The primary goal of the survey was two-fold. First, to find out about the current market - who has what? This will help us to identify potential prospects. Often companies with existing den tal plans in place are more open to hearing about options, unlike those who do not offer benefits to their employees. The second goal was to identify and begin communications with those com panies that are interested in discussing dental benefit options: an opportunity to talk about DR. DR Promotion Campaign Update In October 1996, the ADA House of Delegates resolved to em bark on a three-year national marketing campaign educating employers of the benefits of Direct Reimbursement (Res.47H 1996). This $2.5 million campaign has given the ADA the oppor tunity to increase awareness about DR and has already gener ated significant interest from plan purchasers and benefits deci sion-makers. In a recent ADA News article, Dr. Justin Brink. chair of the ADA Council on Dental Benefit Programs, reported that about half of the campaign's budget is spent on national advertising place ments. As part of its national campaign, the ADA regularly places ads in business publications, including CFO and The Wall Street Journal, and trade publications, including Human Resource Ex ecutive and Business Insurance. With a combined circulation of approximately 4,200,609 readers, and considering that the place ments run in multiple issues of each publication, that would ac count for an approximate 24,041,348 exposures to the DR ads the article stated.

Career Choices for Women in Dentistry Program The School of Dentistry hosted an evening program on October 1 to facilitate networking and information exchange among female students, residents, and practitioners. "The program was designed to offer partici pants insight into the various professional careers in dentistry from a females' perspective" said Dr. Linda Baughan coordinator for the pro gram. The program featured twelve female dentists who discussed with the audience various issues of working in both general and speciality practices. The speakers included in the program were Drs. Anne Adams, Beatrice Muncy, and Faryl Hart who discussed careers and experiences in general practice, participation in organized dentistry and networking among peers. The dental specialities were represented by Drs. Benita Miller (Periodontics), Kim Swanson (Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery), Karen McAndrew (Prosthodontics), Meera Gokli (Pediatric Dentistry) Elizabeth Mei Keene, and Pam Reginbal, (Orthodontics) These individuals pre sented on topics including partnerships and developing relationships with peers and working with referring dentists. Drs. Carol Brooks, Julie Sharp, and Ellen Hahn presented programs on careers in dental education, hos pital based dentistry, and research respectively. Dr. Karen Day offered participants advice and encouragement concerning opportunities in the public health service. Over 83 students and residents attended the program which was co sponsored by the Office of Student Affairs. "The program generated a lot of excitement. It was interesting hearing the speakers share their life experiences with a young and enthusiastic audience," commented Dr Baughan, The evening culminated with a reception. -submitted by Tom Burke

On a state level, the VDA has a full-page ad promoting Direct Reimbursement appearing in the October issue of the Virginia Business magazine. Virginia Business was selected because of its wide-based readership within the Commonwealth's business community. In addition to the ads that are being placed, thirty-one states (Including Virginia) are now participating in the direct mail com ponent of the ADA's campaign. It was reported that this fall, some 150,000 employers and benefits managers in these thirty one states wi/I receive DR information by way of the direct mail component of the campaign. -submitted by Connie Jungmann

A reception culminated the evening activities participants pictured are (L-R) Dr. Shelia Vacendak, 0-3 student Tara Stahle. Ms. Regina Jefferson, VCU, Dr. Anne Adams, and Dr. Hsu.

Virginia Dental Journal 39

ALLIANCE OF THE VDA

Outgoing AVDA President Allene Rice installs new President Nan Cook. Vice President Katherine Morgan, and Treasurer Shirley Meade during the Alliance Business Meeting. Shirley Meade and Ann Marie Dolan man the Alliance "Smokeless Tobacco" table display in Roanoke.

District of Columbia Dental Society

NATION'S CAPITAL DENTAL MEETING

Dr. Gordon Christensen

Dr. Thomas Snvdcr

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Dr. Ross Nash

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Dr. James Cow inc

Dr. Bernard Fink

ant l rei urn to:

Ms. Suzanne Boswell

Ms. Dehra Engelharclt·Nash

D.C. Dental SocieT"

Dr. Joe Camp

Dr. Peter Guevara

';02 C Strccr. :"i.E

Dr. Kenneth Neuman

Dr. Russell Corio

'X'ashingtoll, DC.

M.s. Annette Ashley Linder

!vb. Carolvn Bernardi

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VDA Past President Manny Michaels reminisces with Board Member Pat Watkins about the 1984 VDA Annual Meeting, also held at the Hotel Roanoke.

Shazaam! To counteract insinuendos suggesting that Bud's Rug was a new toupee, Dr A.J. "Aladdin" Zimmer displays the new VDA logo rug which was introduced at this year's Annual Meeting.

l'c a

o m

c c

Past Presidents of the Tidewater Dental Association were honored with a special pin dUring the August 20 Component Meeting. Past Presidents in attendance are pictured as follows (l-r): (Row 1. seated) Drs. Herbert Bonnie: Manny Michaels: Eugene Eskey: Leroy Howell: and Arnold Hoffman. (Row 2) Drs. George McGuire: Mac Mahanes: T Roy Jarrett: David Paul: and Ira Gould. (Row 3) Drs. Odilon Delcambre Larry Cash: Jack Kanter Ben Traylor: and Leonard Oden. (Row 4) Drs. Van K. Heely: Jack Atkins: Bud Zimmer: Bob Rubin: Jerry Clarke: and Ed Weisberg. (Back row) Drs. Harry Ramsey: Norman Moore: Truman Baxter: Barry Einhorn: and Bill Higinbotham.

Virginia Dental Journal 41

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ADAA President Lisa Higginbotham addresses ADAA with other officers: President-Elect Diane Olivas; Secre tary-Treasurer Nancy D'Ardenne and Immediate Past President Beuna Craft.

42 Virginia Dental Journal

Upcoming Continuing Education 1998

Meeting

Location

Sgeakerffopic

~J:l

Component

January 9

Richmond (4)

CE Program

Embassy Suites Hotel Richmond

Dr.Gordon Christianson "Dentistry for the 21st Century"

January 10

NOVA (8)

Membership/CE Meeting

Fairview Marriott

Dr. J. Bermeister "Site-Specific Periodontal Therapy"

January 16

Richmond (4)

CE/Dinner Meeting

Embassy Suites Hotel Richmond

Dr. Roger E. Wood "Pediatric Dental Trauma"

Jan. 31-Feb. 2

VDA Committee Meetings

Richmond Omni Hotel

February 6

Tidewater (1)

CE Program

Norfolk Airport Hilton

Dr. Richard D. Wilson

February 7

Southside (3)

OSHA - 8:30am CPR - 1:30pm

TBA

Dr. John Svirsky Vivian Biggers, RN

February 7

NOVA (8)

Membership/CE/ Breakfast/Lunch

Fairview Marriott

Dr. Tom Orent "1000 Gems Seminar"

February 14

Richmond (4)

CE Program

Embassy Suites Hotel Richmond

Dr. Jane A. Soxman "Practical Pediatrics"

February 20

Richmond (4)

CE Program/ Dinner Meeting

Embassy Suites Hotel Richmond

Dr. Singh Sahni "New Trends for Management of Facial Pain Syndrome"

March 5

NOVA (8)

Membership/CE/ Dinner Meeting

Fairview Marriott

Ms. Sherry Keramidas "Dentistry & the Computer Age"

March 7

Southwest (6)

CE Program

Emory & Henry College

Dr. Ben Bissell "Dealing with Difficult People"

March 20

Richmond (4)

CE Program/ Dinner Meeting

Embassy Suites Hotel Richmond

Dr. Tom Phillips "Esthetic Dentistry"

March 27

Southwest (6)

CE Program

VA Tech, Blacksburg

Dr. Richard Wilson "Restorative Dentistry"

April 17

Richmond (4)

CE Program/ Dinner Meeting

Embassy Suites Hotel Richmond

Dr, James E Nelson "Problems and Complications in Implant Surgery"

April 18-19

Shenandoah (7)

Leadership Conf.

Omni Hotel, Charlottesville

April 18

Shenandoah (7)

CE Program

Charlottesville

Dr. Paul Belvedere "Esthetic Techniques in Composite Dentistry"

April 24

Tidewater (1)

CE Program

Omni Newport News Hotel

Dr. Frank Weine "Avoiding Problems in Clinical Endodontics"

April 25

Peninsula (2)

CE Program

Omni Newport News Hotel

Dr. Stanley E Malamed "New Emergency Medicine In Dentistry"

April 25

Piedmont (5)

CE Program Danville Golf Club (In afternoon: "Air Polishing: Fact Versus Fiction") 'afternoon golf too.

AIDA

Dr. GT Phillips "Beyond the Basics: Esthetic, Clinical and Politically Correct Dentistry"

C路:E路~路~

CONTINUING EDUCATION RECOGNITION PROGRAM ThE \!tr9:nlG )::',ntoi ASSOCIQi:O r \ IS

ce..-''tI,Tieo 5Dcnsu:- 0+ ::o~ltlnupv

de:n1 oj

e~: c eou~o路:::nl

b'Y

Dot;.." lhc,A t.lh CERP and the Accl:Jemy of Gene~-'or [)erl tls~~y

Virainia Dental Journal 43

DeGinder. Dr. Levy and his new board have a few new ideas for us this coming year, as well as a variation of the "Lunch and Leam"planned for our dinner meetings. We will let you know how this idea progresses as we fine tune it. Also planned is a November 19 meeting with our local legis la tors that has a Caribbean cruise party theme and a family holiday afternoon at the Virginia Living Museum on Sunday, December 14. As always, we extend an invitation to the members of other components to join us at any of our functions. Just call our ever-able Executive Secretary Kim Blore at 757 -259-0594 for details.

lComponent News J

Component I Tidewater

Dr. Barry Einhorn, Editor By the time you read this message the leaves will have fallen and the temperature as well. The memories of another great summer will linger on and the stories of great conquests on the various fields of leisure activity will be old hat. The fall is a time of renewal and rededication to our chosen profession. Tidewater is making a new beginning by installing a new slate of officers. Dr. James Baker is our new president. He is sup ported by an able officer corps of: Dr. Stanley Tompkins, President-elect: Dr. James Krochmal, Vice President Dr. Ralph Howell, Treasurer: and Dr. John Mosher, Recording Secretary. Elected to the Executive Committee were: Dr. Bruce Barr, Dr. Roger Flagg, Dr. Chris Hooper, Dr. Charles Wesley, and Dr. David Mueller. Dr. James Rutledge was appointed Corresponding Secretary and Parliamentarian. •

A hearty welcome is extended to our three new est members: Drs. Don Mardis, John Dukes, and Michael McCormick, Jr. It saddens us to have to inform you of the re cent death of three of our component's mem bers: Drs. Ron Godby, Alex Boatwright, and Ralph Snead. We extend our condolences to their families and our colleagues who knew them well. They shall be missed but not soon forgot ten as all were willing to share what they had learned with their many friends in the profes sion. Something to be learned there I think from three lives well lived.

Component III Southside

At our annual meeting in August we experienced a thrilling first. Past presidents of the compo nent were invited to attend and to receive a newly minted past president's pin (designed by Dr. Bud Zimmer). Twenty eight past presidents were in attendance. Dr. H. Reed Boyd III, Editor

, n ~ I

P If

Our next Continuing Education course will be held on Friday, December 12,1997 at the Holi day Inn Executive Center in Virginia Beach. The speaker will be Dr. Charles Blair and his topic will be "Tax Management".

I recently spoke to Dr. Robert Howell, Jr. He told me he had just returned from a ten day stint in Venezuela With Operation Smile. He said this was his third trip in the last twelve months.

1/ t

Best wishes for a great holiday season and happy new year!'

I; iI

Ii Component 1\ Peninsula

Dr. A.J Booker, Editor Oddly enough as we start the final quarter of the calendar year we find ourselves starting what would be the new year for our newly elected component officers. President Guy Levy. Presi dent-Elect Cory Butler. Treasurer Gary Riggs. Secretary A.J. Booker. and Councilor Bruce

44 Virginia Dental Journal

Like the VDA, the Southside Dental Society has been busy. Our semi-annual business meeting was held in September at which time our new officers for the coming year were installed. Dr. John Bass of South Hill is our new President. Dr. Richard Roadcap, our new President-elect is from Colonial Heights. Dr. Scott Gerard from Chesterfield is our Secretary for the coming year and Dr. Richard Bates of Colonial Heights is our new Treasurer. These gentlemen will do a great job for us. Our outgoing President, Dr. Roger Palmer from Emporia, did a great job and deserves recogni tion. We recognized Dr. Palmer with a nice plaque at our meeting and thanked him for a job well done. We have had a successful year in our compo nent. Our continuing education meeting with Dr. Baxter Perkinson was a tremendous suc cess. It was held in conjunction with the Pork Festival in Emporia combining learning with fun and many of our members and their staff at tended. Due to its success and the generosity of Dr. Perkinson. our component voted to do nate $1000 of the proceeds to the "MCV Cam paign for Excellence - An Investment In Our Future" in Dr. Perkinson's name. Our compo nent made this gesture to recognize the contri butions of Dr. Perkinson to our profession, and in recognition of the importance of the dental school in our state, as well as the important role

it plays in each of our lives and our profession. Dr. Lindsey Hunt, Dean of the Dental School, s present at the meeting. He gave us an wadate on the campaign, which currently stands ~i $2.9 million of its $3 million goad in Virginia. I am sure that by the time you read this the cam paign will have exceeded its goal. This cam paign is for an Oral Biology Research Center and to memOrialize Dr. Willie Crockett. The re search center is proposed to enable MCV to remain in the upper echelon of dental schools in the country, and to continue as a leader on the leading edge of teaching, research and tech nological development. It is a tremendous op portunity for our school. We can only thank those leaders at our school and their foresight and wisdom in moving our school to its position of respect and prominence that it currently holds and support them in this vital endeavor. If you missed the VDA Annual Meeting in Roanoke, you really missed it. The Hotel Roanoke has been entirely renovated. Down town Roanoke has been revitalized and is a great area to visit. There is so much to do and see and many places to visit and enjoy. The meeting was a good one with approximately 1100 people in attendance. The continuing edu cation courses covering practice management, esthetic dentistry, and risk management were outstanding. There were many commercial ex hibits as well. I find it interesting to visit these exhibits because there is a lot to learn from the exhibitors. New products and products that I did not know were available and were on dis play. The representatives can also help you with problems that you have in your office. One of the greatest things about these meetings is the chance for fellowship and socializing. While the meeting schedule appears crammed, and it is, there is time to meet and greet old friends over dinner, golf, tennis or a beer during the evening. Of course, the House of Delegates was in ses sion conducting the business of the VDA, mak ing policy changes, by-law changes, electing of ficers for the next year and conducting other business in the best interest of the VDA. its members and our great profession. I encour age you to attend the next annual meeting which is slated in Williamsburg. Come collect some continuing education hours. Come see your VDA in action. Come meet and visit with old friends. Come make some new friends! Dr. Dave Whiston has taken over as President of the ADA. Dave spoke to us at the Opening Session of the VDA Annual Meeting. It is amaz Ing how many Issues the ADA and the VDA and dentistry In general are faced with. It amazes me how much the ADA and the VDA are doing for us, the members. well the profession in general. It is impossible to relate all of the is sues, the fronts, and the detractors that den tistry faces and must deal with. 1realize that on an everyday basis. we individual dentists do not see what organized dentistry is dOing for us. We do not see lobbying occur in Richmond or Wash ington. We do not see the legislation that would have a tremendous negative or detrimental im pact on dentistry and eventually each of us indi vidually that was proposed, but because of the efforts of our leaders and our lobbyists was killed before it got started. We do see the legislation that IS good for dentistry. but what you did not

see were the efforts of our leaders to make sure that legislation survived to positively Impact den tistry We need members. The ADA, VDA, and local component are member driven organizations. The larger number of dentists in Virginia that are members, the louder our voice when we speak, the more we are heard. As Chairman of the Mem bership Committee of the VDA, I encourage you to speak with your component's membership chairman to seek out the dentists in your area that are not members and work to make them members. We wish all of you the best from Southside Virqinia!

Component IV Richmond

December will feature the Society's annual Holi day SOCial at The Tuckahoe Women's Club on December 11tho The Component's Continuing Education Committee, under the ongoing chair manship of Dr. Norman Marks, has done an other great job of scheduling first-class programs this year for the membership's benefit. Hope fully, members and non-member guests alike, will enjoy the meetings. In this period of football games and leaf raking, don't forget to say a kind word about direct re imbursement (DR) to any friends, patients, or acquaintances that are in positions capable of affecting benefits decision making. Every VDA member need to help in disseminating support ive information relative to this form of dental ser vices payment. Best wishes for the remainder of 1997.

Component V Piedmont Dr. Charles E. Gaskins III, Editor After many months of campaigns, we now have a new Governor for Virginia; as well as the many other newly or reelected state and local lead ers. Perhaps this is a good tim~ to reflect on Component IV's own leadership transition that occurred in September. After a great term as President, Dr. Benita Miller transferred leadership of The Richmond Dental Society to Dr. Gary Hartwell. Many thanks are given to Benita for all her personal efforts to lead the Society. Also, ongoing best wishes are given to each of our current officers and directors: Dr. Hartwell, President; Dr. John Kittrell, President Elect; Dr. Charlie Gaskins, Secretary; Dr. Russ Mosher, Treasurer; Doctors Shari Ball, Mark Barban, & Kim Swanson, Directors; and Dr. Jim Lance, Executive Councilor. Congratulations are extended to Dr. Kitt Finley Parker; as well as to Dr. Bryan Brassington, who recently have each experienced the birth of a son. Congratulations also are extended to a former Component IV Past-President, Dr. Ed MUllins; who was asked to serve our state by filling a vacancy on the Virginia Board of Den tistry. Ed will serve well, both the dental profes sion and the public at-large, in this position. October's monthly membership meeting fea tured Dr. Robert D. Holsworth, Director of The Center For Public Policy, Virginia Common wealth University, who spoke on the 1997 state elections Ms. Linda G. Ginsberg, Esq., pre sented an all day CE program on "Securing Your Assets' and on "How Much Is Your Practice Really Worth?" on October 17th. November's monthly membership meeting will feature our own Dr. Norman Marks. who will speak on "Techniques, Tips & Toys." A VDA ail day CE program will be hosted on November 21st. Dr. Jeffrey A. Sherman will present "State of the Art Radiosurgery" at the Embassy Suites Hotel in Richmond.

Dr. Edward P. "Chopper" Snyder, Editor

This is my last article to the VDA journal as the Piedmont's journal editor. I've had the privilege of filling this space for nearly four years. Dr. Barry Cutright, who practices in Danville, has agreed to take my place. Barry is most quali fied for this position; he was an English major in college. I want to thank all of those dentists who have volunteered their time to make our association work. I have been amazed to discover the amount of work that they "donate" to make our organization run. These individuals, their den tal staffs and their spouses provide our local component, the Piedmont, and the VDA with the leadership and energy to run these organi zations. They coordinate continuing education meetings, obtain quality speakers, keep a watch ful eye on our state legislature, and still man age to make a living treating their patients to the best of their abilities. These people deserve our support at local and state meetings. They also deserve our thanks. Thus, in closing let me thank the membership for their support. I am now one of your del egates to the VDA. I would implore each of you to call or write someone you know who is active in the VDA. the Piedmont, or your local society and thank them for their hard work. Finally, go one step further and donate some of your time and energy to organized dentistry to make our chosen profession even better.

Component VI Southwest

Dr. William B. Thompson, Editor Greetings from Southwest Virginia - Component VI. This has been a busy year for the members

of our society. Our component's annual meet

ing was held at the historic Martha Washington

Inn in Abingdon. Dr. Harold Crossley discussed

"Therapeutic Drugs in Pharmacology." He did a

wonderful job making this topic interesting, in

formative and entertaining. During the mem

bership meeting Dr. Thomas W. Littrell received

an ADA Honorary Certificate for volunteer ser

vice in a foreign country (Costa Rica.) Dr. Wil

liam Allison, VDA President, installed the new

component leadership:

President - Dr. William Thompson;

President Elect - Dr. Robert Schuster;

Vice President - Dr. Anna Johnston: and

SecretaryfTreasurer - Dr. Dana Chamberlain.

During the VDA's annual meeting in Roanoke, several of Component VI's members received special recognition. Congratulations to Dr. Wally Huff who was installed as President of the VDA. Component VI is proud to have Wally represent ing Virginia dentists. We know that he will do an outstanding job! Dr. Gus Vlahos was elected alternate delegate to the ADA meeting in San Francisco: he will be a valuable asset to our del egation. Dr. Thomas W. Littrell was honored as a VDA Fellow. As the 1997 year comes to an end. we have many thanks which need to be extended. First, let me express a special appreciation to Dr. David Stepp for all of his endless hours and dedication for his exceptional service as com ponent President. Second. I would like to thank Drs. Wally Huff, Ron Brown and Gus Vlahos who served on the Executive Council. I would like to recognize those members who chaired or served on committees, especially Dr.•Iack Cole - Peer Review, and Dr. Carole Pratt - Chair person of Auxiliary Education and Relations. whose terms expired this year. A special thanks to Dr. Joe Paget and Dr. Susan O'Connor who are currently forming local committees within our component to educate members and busi nesses on Direct Reimbursement. Component VI regrets to announce the resignation of Mrs. Sonya Farris, our executive secretary. Sonya developed, planned, and coordinated our component's activities over the past several years. She will be missed by all our members and we wish here the best of luck. We would like to welcome new members' Dr. Michael Dean Doty - Abingdon: Dr Ronald Jessup - Bristol: Dr Michelle Mayerchak - Wise: Dr. Cheryl Doreen Patterson - Ewing; and Dr.•Ioe P Schneider· Cana.

Virginia Dental Journal 45

We recognize members receiving life member

status:

Dr. Jack S. Hurley;

Dr. Robert G. Moore; and

Dr. Harold P. Remines.

Our last component meeting of the year will be

held on November 21 , at the Donaldson-Brown

Conference Center on the Virginia Tech cam

pus in Blacksburg. Our speaker will be Dr. RI

chard Wilson discussing restorative dentistry.

Mark your calendar for these future meetings in

1998: March 27 at Hemlock Haven Conference

Center in Marion and May 15-17 at Pipestem

Resort State Park in Pipestem, West Virginia.

On behalf of Component VI, I wish you all a

healthy and prosperous holiday season I

HRJ81 issue to establish a dental hygiene pro gram in the Shenandoah Valley area; involving young dentists at the state level to represent our component on various committees; publication of the first SVDA newsletter and hiring of the first component secretary. Ted also arranged the SVDA's first leadership conference - a meeting where active members set five year goals and looked to the future of our component. Thank you, Ted, for all you have done to energize the SVDA and for being the "wind beneath our wings."

Component VII' Northern Virginia

Dr. Melanie R. Love, Editor

After a relaxing and low key s'ummer, Septem ber has been a busy month for the SVDA! The fall business meeting included the introduction and welcome of Drs. Robert Collins, Michael Cunningham, and Melissa Wolfe as new mem bers. We are pleased to have them share in our endeavor to be active in our profession, enjoy fellowship with our colleagues and have our voice, as dentists, heard. Additional business discussed at the component meeting was the revision of our constitution and by-laws. This is being done to keep our asso ciation congruent with the constitutions and by laws of our parent associations, the VDA and ADA. Revisions are still being made and we urge all who are interested in assisting to call the SVDA office for information on joining in our next meeting. Our CE program with Dr. John Burmeister speaking on periodontics was a great success! Those in attendance are now well informed on the latest theories and therapies for periodontal pockets that continue to fail despite conventional treatment. At the VDA Annual Meeting In Roanoke, Dr. Douglas Quentin Handy was honored as a Sixty Year Member. Drs. Thomas E. Burke, LeWIS Donald Tamkm, John Fennell Wolfe. Jr., and Charles Lemuel Halstead were honored as Life Members. Congratulations go out to Dr. Dandridge B. Allen for his induction as a Fellow of the Virginia Dental Association. Dr. Gerald Brown was Installed as the new President of the SVDA. We look forward to his quidance and leadership In the coming year. In closing. a heartfelt thanks go to Dr. Ted Sherwm for rus tireless efforts of the past year as our PreSident. Ted's accomplishments Include the organization of over a hundred dentists for the

46 Virginia Dental Journal

Once again, enjoy the Annual Session and have a spectacular Fall l

------~--~-----_._""

Component VII Shenandoah Valley

Dr. Rebecca Scango Swett, Editor

Eva M. Pleta. DDS Sheila Rao, DDS Kimberly Silloway, DDS Theresa Ton. DDS Quang Tran. DDS Gary A. Vela, DDS

We are very excited to be right next door to the 138th ADA Annual Session, October 18-22. Located across the Potomac River will be thou sands of our fellow members of the ADA, fami lies, and staff. For those of you arriving in Wash ington, D.C., for the firs time - Welcome! It's a spectacular city with wonderful cultural events, great restaurants for all tastes and, of course, Incredible monuments. For those of you return ing for another visit, I hope you will take time to experience more of the city than you had previ ously. This Annual Session has been even more ea gerly anticipated than usual by our members as it will mark the first of Dr. David Whiston's offi cial tenure as ADA President. He will be in ducted on Tuesday, October 21. We hope as many of you as possible will be there to wel come one of our own as President! Component 8 has undertaken a renewed effort to increase our membership at the local, state, and national levels. As a result, we are proud to welcome the following new members: Susan Ahmadiyar, DDS Rana Borakat, DDS Emad EI-Haje, DDS Mehadad Favagehi, DDS, MS Mary C. Forjan, DDS Bonnie Foster. DDS Janet French. DDS Ricardo Gaitan, DDS Ali M. Guleria. DMD Winfred Hudgins, DDS Hoang N. King, DDS Jean Kay, DDS Tara Lowe, DDS Christine Mal. DDS Justrn Martrn. DDS Jina Naqnor, DDS Patricia Mavar, DDS Kendra Novick. DDS Thu-Nga Ortega, DDS Jermiah N. Patrick, DDS

._-------------~,.

Dr. Robert Miller, VAO President The Orthodontists and Oral Surgeons met to gether this past June for a Jointannual meeting at the Cavalier Hotel in Virginia Beach. The meeting was well attended to hear two outstand ing clinicians diSCUSS orthognathic surgery Dr. Bruce Epker, an Oral Surgeon, spoke on Sat urday and Sunday while Dr John Casko, Chair man, department of Orthodontics at the Uni versity of Iowa, spoke on Monday and Tues day. The social events for the weekend were highlighted by a dinner and dance on the pavil ion featuring Bill Deal and the Roundels. Many thanks to Dr. Ray Lee for organizing that por tion of the meeting which many regard as the highlight of the meeting. The VAO Board ap proved and contributed $5000 to the MCV fund. VAQ members are also encouraged to contrib ute privately as well. Plans are well in place for the upcoming South ern Association of Orthodontists Annual Meet ing at Marco Island, Florida scheduled for No vember 7-11,1997. Our own Alan Helwig, President of the SAO, has planned an outstand ing meeting and many Virginia orthodontists have contributed greatly to the planning of this event on the gorgeous west coast of Florida. The VAO held its quarterly board meeting dur ing the VDA Annual Meeting which was well attended. Planning strategies for the two up coming meetings were discussed and are as follows. The VAO has decided to rejuvenate the Winter Seminar which was a popular ski! CE week for many years. I would like to thank John Wolfe for the work he has done in the past 20 years organiZing this event. We have joined forces with Any Mountain Tours (1-800 468-3455) to organize the travel arrangements to this year's meeting in Vail, Colorado, Janu ary 24-31, 1998. Our featured speaker is W. Baxter Perkinson who will give 10 hours of CE designed to interest all dentists and dental spe cialists In the area of restorative dentistry. Vari ous other speakers will discuss topics related to general dentistry. By now. every member of the VDA should have received a brochure. but If you are interested in attending call Lisa at the VDA (1-800-552-3886) today' Plans are in place for our next annual meeting next summer (June 26-30.1998) at Hilton Head. South Carolina. The site chosen IS the Westin Hotel, the only oceanfront. major hotel on the island. All orthodontists and their families are encouraged to register early due to the limited number of rooms available at the reduced con ference rate. Next year's speakers will Include

Dr. Joe O'Neil, a popular speaker on practice management, and Adrian Crook, who is a move ment and exercise consultant who will discuss strategies for improved posture and flexibility so we can enjoy or remain competitive in the sports we choose well into retirement. Additional in formation and registration instructions for this meeting are forthcoming. Have a great Holiday Season and I look forward to skiing with many of you this January at Vail!

VSOMS Notes Patrick J. Dolan, DDS, MS, VSOMS President Many members of the Virginia Society of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons have just returned from the annual meeting of the American Asso ciation of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons in Seattle, Washington. The scientific session in cluded prospective studies of third molar pathol ogy and alveolar reconstruction, as well as uti lizing grafts and membranes. Dr. Daniel Buser, oral and maxillofacial surgeon from Switzerland, presented implant surgery and site preparation. Anesthesia, orthognathic and cosmetic surgery, abstract sessions, symposia and poster ses sions were well attended by the' membership and guests. The VSOMS members continue to maintain full scope office and hospital practice. Input to leg islative issues are of concern to our members from frenectomies to face lifts! We will con tinue to work forward on the efforts achieved to date regarding the Parts Bill and degree of pro vider legislation which our dental societies have worked so hard to acheive.

Joan Gillespie, Dr. Norman Marks, and Dr. Rob ert O'Neill. In his remarks Dr. Levin commented, "It is im portant to remember that all gifts or pledges are critical to the development of the new Institute. The Campaign continues to Improve with total gifts and pledges of $2,921,000 from 500 indi viduals. Our goal is to raise $4 Million and have 1,000 contributors participate in the Campaign. I encourage everyone who has not made a gift to consider supporting this exciting new Insti tute which will transform the School Into a na tionalleader in dental research." The campaign committee and the district leaders have all re committed themselves to working th roughout the fall. The solicitation phase of the $4 Million Cam paign is scheduled to conclude on December 31,1998. Altogether 100 contributors visited the booth to receive their lapel pin and/or watch. It was a great opportunity to personally thank many alumni and friends of the School who shared their reasons for supporting the Campaign. On a personal note, we would like to thank the VDA Staff for their hospitality, and to Dr. Mike O'Keefe and Dr. Fred Coots for organizing and coordi nating such a pleasant event.

Dr. Francis L. Macrina

Named Director

Institute for Oral and Craniofacial

Molecular Biology

ology will place the school on the cutting-edge of contemporary science by applying molecular bio logical techniques to oral disease." The institute, will be housed on the fourth floor of the Wood Memorial Building. It will promote a comprehensive inter-disciplinary approach to re search in the field of molecular biology. Building upon the existing research strengths in periodon tal disease, the institute is expected to improve basic and clinical teaching in the School and ulti mately improve patient care. Dr. Macrina who earned his doctoral degree at Syracuse University and completed postdoctoral research training at the University of Alabama at Birmingham has been continuously funded by the National Institutes of Dental Research (NIDR) for 23 years. A recipient of a prestigious ten-year MERIT research award, Dr. Macrina has served on several editorial boards of scientific journals as well as a review and advisory boards for the National Institutes of Health, the Environmental Protection Agency and the Food and Drug Ad ministration. He is currently the chairman of the NIDR Board of Scientific Counselors. During the September meeting of the Board of Advisors of the School of Dentistry, Dr. Hunt introduced Dr. Macrina commenting, "had we completed a international search for a director, I could not have found a more qualified and re spected individual to lead this exciting effort"

We look to support our new VDA President, Dr. Wallace Huff, and wish him well over this next year.

~------~)

Thomas C. Burke, Jr

(Notes from the Exhibit Booth - Roanoke)

At this year's VDA annual meeting in Roanoke, the School of Dentistry sponsored a booth that focused on the "Excellence Through Research - An Investment In Our Future" Campaign. The booth held a display concerning the new Insti tute for Oral and Craniofacial Molecular Biology. It also provided us an opportunity to distribute incentive items to individuals who have joined one of the four giving clubs. During the busi ness meeting on Sunday, Dr. Jeff Levin. Cam paign Chairman. gave a brief report on the Cam paign and then recognized major contributors who were present. Dr. Levin asked each to come forward and receive a personalized plaque They included Club of Excellence ($25.000 or greater) member Dr Frank Crist. Club of Com mitment (S10.000 - 524.999) members: Dr. Sanford Lefcoe. Dr. Ronald Tankersley Dr. M.

Francis L. Macrina, Ph.D., has been named the director of the Institute for Oral and Craniofacial Molecular Biology effective January 1, 1998. In ternationally known for his work on infectious dis eases and bacterial resistance to antibiotics, Macrina's research has focused on the applica tion of molecular biology and genetics to the study of oral bacterial pathogens. Dr. Macrina served for more than a decade as chairman of the De partment of Microbiology and Immunology in the School of Medicine, and he has been an affiliate faculty member in the School of Dentistry since 1976. Most recently. Dr. Macrina served as in terim director for VCU's Massey Cancer Center from August 1995- August 1997. "Dr. Macrina's background as an administrator and renown research scientist uniquely equips him to serve as the first director of our new in stitute." said Dr. Lindsay Hunt, Dean. "Under Dr. Macrinas leadership. the Institute and De partment for Oral and Craniofacial Molecular Bi

Virginia Dental Journal 47

classified ads Classified Advertising Classified advertising rates are $30 for up to 30 words. Additional words .25 each. All advertisements must be prepaid and cannot be accepted by phone or fax. Checks should be made payable to the Virginia Dental Association. The closing dates for all copy will be the 15th of December, March, June and September. Example: Dec. 15, at 5pm is the closing date for the January-February-March Journal issue. After the deadline closes, the Journal can accept no ads nor can it alter or cancel previously ordered ads. This deadline is firm. As a membership service, ads are restricted to VDA and ADA members and are re stricted to non-commercial copy. Advertising copy must be typewritten and sent to: Jour nal Classified Department, Virginia Dental Association, P.O. Box 6906, Richmond, VA 23230-0906. The Virginia Dental Association reserves the right to edit copy and does not assume liability for the contents of classified advertising.

Dental practice for sale in SW Virginia. Gross $250,000 asking $100,000. Building also for sale at $100,000: 1600 square feet upstairs, 800 sqauare feet in basement. Call evenings: 540-988-9164.

Gendex Panorex, purchased 1995-96; 2 -SS White X-ray Units, purchase date unknown; Midwest Chair, purchase date unknown; Midwest Cart (Doctor/ Assistant combo), purchase date unknown; Pelton Crane Compressor, new/reconditioned; and Dentsply Vacuum Pump, new/reconditioned. Make an offer. Lots of used dental equipment. Call Dr. Dale Lazar at 804 435-3008 or 804-758-4360.

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• • • • • • • •

All Aspects of Radiation Safety Endo Films & Quick Developing FMX Placement and Film Mounting Use ofRINN XCP Holders Panoramic & Cephalometric Technique Developing & Fixing and Processor Maintenance Quality Control Measures and Troubleshooting And Much More!

The Fee For the Course is $99.00 & includes hand-outs and supplies. Those students enrolled in our 12 week Dental Assisting Course need not register for this course, as it is included. Space is Limited, so call today to reserve a seat for your assistant. Or you may complete the registration sheet below and mail or FAX it to VSDA at 804-794-7974.

VSDA Registration Form 1997-1998 Name

-----::--,----.,..,...------:-:----:-:::-:-----:-::-c----=----;--.,-----:-:--=---c::---

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ Sex M

Registration is ace -ored until c ass earns, provi e

Check Here

at a c ass

not Iu . VSDA may cancel

any

class wio notice if enrollment is 10w.

Course # 101 101 101 101 101

Section # 011 012 013 001 002

Date Sat., Oct. 25, 1997 (Richmond) Sat, Nov. 22, 1997 (Roanoke) Sat., Dec. 13, 1997 (Richmond) Sat., Feb. 28, 1998 (Richmond) Sat., May 30, 1998 (Roanoke)

Time 8am-5pm 8am-5pm 8am-5pm 8am-5pm 8am-5pm

Cost $99

100 100

001 002

Sat., Jan. 03, 1998 (Richmond) Sat., Apr. 04, 1998 (Roanoke)

12 weeks 12 weeks

$1,595 $1,595

$99 $99 $99 $99

Mal! this registranon form and credit card information or check (payable to VSDA) \0. Virginia School of Dental Assisting, 1905 Huguenot Road, Suite 200, Richmond, Virginia 23235. Or FAX it (credit card only) to 804-794-7974.

IL-.

SS#

50 Virginia Dental Journal

UNITEDSTIJ.TES POSTIJ.L SERVICETM

Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation (Required by 39 USC 3685) 2. Publication Number

1. publication Title

VIRGINIA DENTAL JOURNAL

010/4191_161417[2 5. Number of Issues Published Annually

4. Issue Frequency

January-March; April - June; July-September; October-December

Quarterly

3. Filing Date

September 22, 1997 6. Annual Subscription Price

7. Complete Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication (Not printer) (Street, city, county, state, and ZIP+4)

5006 Monument Avenue, PO Box 6906, Richmond, VA 23230-0906

12.00 Contact Person

William E. Zepp Telephone

(804) 358-4927 8. Complete Mailing Address of Headquarters or General Business Office of Publisher (Not pnnter)

Virginia Dental Association, PO Box 6906, Richmond, VA 23230-0906 9. Full Names and Complete Mailing Addresses of Publisher, Editor, and Managing Editor (Do not leave blank) Publisher (Name and complete mailing address)

Virginia Dental Association, PO Box 6906, Richmond, VA 23230-0906 Editor (Name and complete mailing address)

Dr. Leslie S. Webb, Jr., PO Box 6906, Richmond, Virginia 23230-0906 Managing Editor (Name and complete mailing address)

Mr. William E. Zepp, CAE, PO Box 6906, Richmond, VA 23230-0906 10. Owner (Do not leave blank. If the publication is owned by a corporation, give the name and address of the corporation immediately followed by the names and addresses of all stockholders owning or holding 1 percent or more of the total amount of stock. If not owned by a corporation, give the names and addresses of the individual owners. If owned by a partnership or other unincorporated firm, give its name and address as well as those of each individual owner. If the publicetion is published by a nonprofit organization, give its name and address.) Full Name

Complete Mailing Address

Virginia Dental Association

5006 Monument Avenue PO Box 6906 Richmond. VA 23230-0906

11. Known Bondholders, Mortgagees, and Other Security Holders Owning or Holding 1 Percent or More of Total Amount of Bonds, Mortgages, or Other Securities. If none, check box

r.xl

None

12. Tax Status (For completion by nonprofit organizations authorized to mail at special rates) (Check one) The purpose, function, and nonprofit status of this organization and the exempt status for federal income tax purposes: [21 Has Not Changed During Preceding 12 Months Has Changed During Preceding 12 Months (Publisher must submit explanation of change with this statement)

DC' r- _ _

"U~"

,,,...

.....

13. Publication Title

14. Issue Date for Circulation Data Below

July-September, 1997

Virginia Dental Journal 15.

Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months

Extent and Nature of Circulation a. Total Number of Copies (Net press run)

Actual No. Copies of Single Issu1 Published Nearest to Filing Date

3275

3200

(1) Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, and Counter Sales (Not mailed)

NONE

(2) Paid or Requested Mail Subscriptions (Include advertiser's proof copies and exchange copies)

2661

d. Free Distribution by Mail (Samples, complimentary, and other free)

435

e. Free Distribution Outside the Mail (Carriers or other means)

104

539

507

3200

3168

NONE

3275

3200

b. Paid and/or Requested

Circulation

c. Total Paid and/or Requested Circulation (Sum of 15b(1) and 15b(2))

f. Total Free Distribution (Sum of 15d and 15e)

g. Total Distribution (Sum of 15c and 15t)

., ., .,

â&#x20AC;˘

(1) Office Use, Leftovers, Spoiled h. Copies not

Distributed

(2) Retums from News Agents

i. Total (Sum of 15g, 15h(1), and 15h(2)) Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation (15c/15gx 100) 16. Publication of Statement of Ownership I2;i Publication required. Will be printed in the OCT !DEC--,- 1997 Publication not required. 17. Signature and Title of Editor, Publisher, Business Manager, or Owner

/}tJ6(;)v

83%

84%

issue of this publication. Date

Business Manager

September 22, 1997

I certify that all informali'O'n furnished on this form is true and complete. I understand that anyone who furnishes false or misleading information on this Iorrn or who omits material or information requested on the form mai58 subject to criminal sanctions (including fines and imprisonment) and/or civil sanctions (including multiple damages and civil penalties).

Instructions to Publishers 1. Complete and file one copy of this form with your postmaster annually on or before October 1. Keep a copy of the completed form for your records.

2. In cases where the stockholder ~r security holder is a trustee, include .in j.t~ms 10 and 11 the name of the person or corporation for

whom the trustee is acting. Also Include the names and addr~~ses of Indlvld~al~ who are stockholders who own or hold 1 percent or more of the total amount of bonds, mortgages, or other securities of the publishing corporation. In item 11, if none, check the box. Use blank sheets if more space is required.

3. Be sure to furnish all circulation information called for In Item 15. Free circulation must be shown

Items 1Sd, e, and f.

4. If the publication had sEX?ond-cl.ass authoriz~tion ~s a g~neral.or requester ~ublication, this Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation must be published; It must be pnnted In any Issue In October or, If the publication is not published during October, the first issue printed after October. 5. In item 16, indicate the date of the issue in which this Statement of Ownership will be published. 6. Item 17 must be signed.

Failure to file or publlsn a statement of ownership may lead to suspension of second-class authonzation.

Frustrating enough to lose power. Worse yet, to lose income because of it. Particularly since typical business insurance policies don't cover losses like these. That's why it pays to protect your practice with The Package - a unique insurance program created exclusively for dentists. If an off足 premises power failure prevents you from practicing for more than a day, this policy would actually reimburse you for lost income. And that's just one of this program's many benefits, which combines the expertise of two leading specialists. You get profes足 sionalliability coverage from The Medical Protective Company - the nation's inventor of malpractice insurance for doctors. Plus general liability and property protection from The Hartford - one of the country's top business insurers. To learn more about all the power足 ful advantages this program offers, call 1-800-344-1899 .

~silmdZ :J+ot~~則:rclusiYely since 1899

What's So Special About Partials From Virginia Dental Laboratories?

Integrity. Virginia Dental Laboratory uses

• Vitallium® Alloy-the only partial denture alloy that is processed under the same quality control conditions as orthopedic implant alloy-with over 50 years of patient success.

Experience. The exceptional skills, quality • craftsmanship, and proven techniques of Virginia Dental Laboratories come only as the result of years of experience, painstaking effort and a deep commitment to integrity.

Accuracy. Our entire procedure for construct • ing Vitallium Pa;tial Dentures is quality-con trolled to achieve the utmost accuracy. This accuracy means faster delivery of the restoration; reduced chairtime and greater patient satisfaction.

Commitment. Virginia Dental Laboratories is

• dedicated to providing you and your patients with the highest quality partial dentures available. We believe that the combination of our quality raw mate rials, such as Vitallium Alloy; our skilled technicians; our unequaled experience and our steadfast dedication specially qualify us to satisfy the needs of you and your patients.

Quality. Our partial denture restorations begin • with quality raw materials such as Vitallium® Alloy. Vitallium Alloy® is totally biocompatible. It is nickel- and beryllium-free. Its surface won't tarnish, dull or corrode in the oral cavity or in the body.

For special treatment on your next partial denture case, please contact Virginia Dental Laboratories!

We are happy to survey, design and estimate from your diagnostic casts at no obligation to you! Contact us today!

Since 1932

irginia Dental Laboratories, Inc. 1."\0 W York Street :\orfolk. Virginia 2.1510 (757) 622-4614 (800) 870-4614 !£ [lili2 Au stennl. Inc. All Rlghls Revervcd. Vualliurn trademark licensed 10 Au-renal. Inc. by Pfizer Inc.