Advocate...Educate...Empower...Serve!
August 2013 | Focus on: The dental team
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
p. 13
p. 10
WDA House of Delegates set for Nov. 15-16 in Middleton .................................. p. 2
Tailoring employee engagement efforts Matt Shefchik The QTI Group Managing Director Matt.Shefchik@qtigroup.com
Mentors needed......... p. 5 Update your Notice of Privacy Practices by Sept. 23 .................................. p. 6 New chief dental officer named .................................p. 12
What is employee engagement and why is it important? Employee engagement is the emotional commitment an employee has to the organization and its goals. Typically, this means engaged employees are fully involved in and enthusiastic about their work, and they act in way that furthers their organization’s interests. Research has linked highly-engaged employees to several positive organizational outcomes including, increased profitability, customer and employee satisfaction and retention rates. Achieving excellent quality patient care is dependent upon retention of top talent and engagement is essential for retaining your best employees. • Improving employee engagement and
receiving more profits is great, but what will it cost you? • How can you be certain the efforts will fit your organization’s culture and employees’ needs? • Which methods can be tailored to produce notable outcomes and, in turn, make the investment worthwhile? Improving engagement doesn’t have to cost more and may actually save money. Studies show lack of employee engagement can cost 35 to 50 percent of payroll costs. When it comes to increasing employee engagement, remember to capitalize on low-cost engagement initiatives. This includes rewarding employees with incentives, recognizing their efforts, giving them a voice to be heard and being flexible.
WDA grows with 31 new members! The Wisconsin Dental Association is pleased to welcome 31 new members to organized dentistry. These new members, their cities of practice and/or residence or components (if applicable) are: Brenda Diamond, RDH (Stevens Point)
Dr. Ashley Barnes (Milwaukee) Greater Milwaukee Dental Association Carry Boley-Jerdee, RDH (Hales Corners)
the public.
and quality oral health care for
promoting professional excellence
and the dental profession by
advances the interests of its members
The Wisconsin Dental Association
Mission Statement:
Laurel Ball, RDH (Winneconne)
Dr. Kyle Everson (Spooner) Northwest District Dental Society Dr. Benjamin Gelhaus (Medford) Central Wisconsin Dental Society
is a publication of
A little recognition can go a long way. Simple things like anniversary gifts and public recognition for successful projects or outstanding achievements can make employees feel appreciated and connected to the organization. Time and time again, reports show employees who are recognized, even in the simplest form (a personal thank you) are more engaged and thus more valuable employees. Get your employees involved and make sure everyone is aware of the rewards and benefits of participating. This is an opportunity for everyone to have a little fun while getting recognized for a job well done. continued on page 8
Let’s get Social!
Dr. Tarah Gerner (Milwaukee) Greater Milwaukee Dental Association Lynlee Hehli, RDH (Greenville) Dr. Christopher Hill (Columbus) Columbia Dodge Marquette County Dental Society continued on page 5
Connect with us on WDA J ournal
Show them you care
W isconsin D ental A ssociation , I nc .
Dr. Jennifer Quizon (left) and Dr. Jay Oksiuta (right) of Racine Dental Group shared a moment with a member of their dental team at the WDA and WDA Foundation 2013 Mission of Mercy and posted photos on their Facebook page. Post your dental team photos on the WDA Facebook page.
and visit us online @ WDA.org AUGUST 2013 • Volume 89, No. 8
WDA House of Delegates set for Nov. 15-16 in Middleton Lisa Chandre WDA Executive Assistant lchandre@wda.org
The Wisconsin Dental Association House of Delegates will convene Nov. 15-16, 2013 at the Madison Marriott West in Middleton, Wis. A request for members’ names who will serve on your component’s delegation was sent out in February 2013. If you are interested in serving your component and organized dentistry in this way, contact your component president. Each component has their own rules and bylaws governing their delegation members. The face-to-face time with your colleagues and WDA staff members gives you the opportunity to ask questions, listen to or participate in arguments on dental issues and learn more about how the WDA and organized dentistry works for you. Issues before the House • Elect president-elect, vice president and speaker of House • Adopt legislative agenda • Adopt 2014 budget • Set 2014 membership dues rate • Edits and additions to bylaws • Elect members to House nominating, bylaws and ethics committees • Proposed changes to the ADA House of Delegates delegation election process • Elect delegates and alternates to the 2014 American Dental Association House of Delegates to be held Oct. 9-14, 2014 in San Antonio, Tex. In addition to attending ADA House sessions, delegates and alternates are required to attend a 9th District premeeting caucus in September 2014. If you are interested in running for one of these positions, submit your curriculum vitae to the WDA Executive Office as soon as possible.
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Please include positions held at the local, state and national dental society levels. A sample format is available by contacting Lisa Chandre at lchandre@wda.org. CVs will be shared with WDA House members. Component breakfast The seventh annual Component Officers’ Breakfast & Open Forum will be held Friday, Nov. 15, 2013 in conjunction with the House meeting. Any component officer who attends this event will be reimbursed a maximum of $120 plus applicable taxes for one night’s stay on arrival Nov. 14 at the Marriott Madison West (rate applies for reservations made before Oct. 15). When making your reservation, please mention the WDA room block to receive this rate. Complete and submit the reimbursement form that will be distributed at the breakfast. Reimbursement forms are due to the WDA Executive Office prior to Dec. 2, 2013. Any received after this date will not be honored. If you have any questions, contact WDA Member Relations Coordinator Amy Landis at 414-755-4126 or alandis@wda. org. President’s reception, Pyramid of Pride Awards dinner Friday evening festivities will begin with a reception honoring WDA President Dr. Timothy Durtsche (La Crosse) at 6:30 p.m. The Pyramid of Pride Awards dinner follows at 7:30 p.m. Formal invitations will be mailed out soon. If you are attending the House and do not receive an invitation or wish to
EMPOWER RSVP by phone or email, contact Lisa Chandre in the WDA Executive Office at 414-755-4104 or lchandre@wda.org. Hotel information The Madison Marriott West, 1313 John Q. Hammons Drive, is offering group rates of $120 for a single or double room, plus applicable taxes for sleeping rooms reserved before Tuesday, Oct. 15 by calling 888-7452032 and identifying yourself as part of the WDA group. Checkin is at 4 p.m. and checkout is at noon. Contact Lisa Chandre at 800-364-7646, ext. 4104, 414-755-4104 or lchandre@wda. org with questions. Preliminary list of events: Friday, Nov. 15 8 - 10:30 a.m.................... Component Officers’ Breakfast & Open Forum 10:45 - 11:15 a.m...........New delegate/ alternate orientation 11:30 a.m. - 12:15 p.m..............Lunch Noon..................... House registration 1 - 4 p.m.........................House session (Reference Committee open hearing - 3 p.m.) 6:30 - 10 p.m...................... President’s reception /Pyramids of Pride Awards dinner Saturday, Nov. 16 7:30 - 9 a.m................Region caucuses w/continental breakfast 9 a.m...................... House registration 9:30 a.m. conclusion .......... Final House session
Committee announces 2013-14 WDA officer slate Mark Paget WDA Executive Director & House Secretary mpaget@wda.org
The Wisconsin Dental Association House Nominating Committee met via conference call on June 5. Members voted to present the following slate of officer nominees to the 2013 WDA House of Delegates. President Dr. Julio Rodriguez (Brodhead)
President-elect Dr. Paul Levine (Milwaukee)
Vice President Dr. Ryan Braden (Lake Geneva)
Speaker of the House Dr. Richard Lofthouse (Fennimore)
Presentation by Dr. Marko Vujicic, managing vice president of the ADA’s Health Policy Resources Center.
August 2013 WDA.org
Wisconsin
joins ranks of non-covered services states
Wisconsin became the 34th state to stop dental plans from setting fees for services they don’t cover on July 5 when Gov. Scott Walker signed Assembly Bill 109 (Senate Bill 131) into law. Wisconsin’s new 2013 Act 26 becomes effective Jan. 1, 2014 and will apply to the modification or renewal of existing contracts or the signing of new contracts. (Annual fee schedule updates are considered modifications of existing contracts.) More details and photos available on WDA.org and in the September WDA Journal.
WDA Government Buzz gives members a snapshot of the current status of dental-related policies and legislation. The Issue tells you who, what and why; Current Buzz gives you a status update on the issue; WDA Actions highlights your professional association’s activity and position; and Next Steps anticipates what’s around the corner and, in some cases, identifies what WDA members can do. “WDA Government Buzz” is updated for each issue of the journal. Current “buzz” available on WDA.org website and accessed monthly via WDA Executive Director’s Update e-newsletter. For more information, visit WDA.org or call the WDA Legislative Office at 608-250-3442. Updated information is highlighted.
The Issue
Current Buzz
WDA Actions
Update state definition of dentistry by adopting American Dental Association’s model definition to allow for greater certainty for dentists wishing to provide services based on the latest scientific and technological advances.
ADA model does not list specific procedures and therefore would not need to be changed when some dental treatments become outdated and new ones are developed. Adoption of the model definition will reassure dentists considering a move to Wisconsin.
Director of Government Services Mara Brooks has attended meetings with appropriate legislators and/or staff to review the bill drafts, address concerns and provide answers to questions.
A preliminary draft has been shared with WDA officers and trustees and meetings with outside entities will be set up in the coming months.
Would bring Wisconsin in line with national model definition (19 states have adopted ADA version and several others have very similar definitions).
State’s current definition of dentistry includes a listing of procedures. A general definition devoid of specific procedures will be similar to the statutory definitions for other Wisconsin health care providers.
WDA issued concerns with the manner in which the December 2012 document was developed and released. It also refused to support its sections in support of mid-level providers and a second dental school.
Alliance staff reworked the roadmap based on the June meeting. A draft was shared with all groups involved.
Fiscal impact: $0
Next Steps
Proposed definition will be similar to current language by limiting the practice of dentistry to the conditions of the oral cavity and maxillofacial area, including the adjacent and associated structures.
Wisconsin’s Oral Health Improvement Roadmap to Improving Oral Health, 2013-2018 WOHC has proposed significant edits to the “State Oral Health Improvement Plan” released in December 2012 and which WDA originally opposed. The WDA’s concerns were taken seriously and a new proposal drafted.
A draft of the new oral health “roadmap” has been developed after receiving input from 18 representatives of oral health advocacy groups (including WDA) at a June 12 meeting. The “road map of ideas” is designed to encourage “buy-in” from various parties. Each entity will be encouraged to review the broad-based strategy areas and develop more specific policies to pursue either alone or in conjunction with others.
Wisconsin Oral Health Coalition consists of 130+ individuals, organizations and agencies from various backgrounds (including dental). It focuses on dental access issues and improving the oral health of children and families.
June attendees worked to restore trust in groups’ cooperative relationships, developed the proposed roadmap and identified opportunities for collaboration.
Effective Feb. 1, 2013, Wisconsin’s optimal level of fluoride is to be 0.7 mg/L. New, lower level established by state’s Oral Health Program in Department of Health Services and Public Water Supply Section in Department of Natural Resources in response to U.S. Department of Health and Human Services proposed change. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recognizes community water fluoridation as one of the 10 greatest public health achievements of the 20th century.
The roadmap is expected to be the focus of WOHC’s annual statewide conference to be held in Stevens Point on Wednesday, Sept. 18. Dentists are encouraged to attend the annual WOHC conference and participate in these discussions. If interested in attending, please contact Erika Valadez at evaladez@wda.org.
Children’s Health Alliance of Wisconsin provides staff support through federal oral health grant from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Community water fluoridation is safe, effective and economical, providing substantial oral health benefits to approximately 90 percent of children and adults on public water systems in Wisconsin.
WDA leaders and Legislative Advocacy Committee members were asked to review by the July 14 deadline.
In the first six months of this year, 22 Wisconsin communities have seen fluoride activity (for and against), compared to 17 communities for all of 2012: • 6 stopped fluoridation • 5 retained despite attempts to end • 10 discussed and are being monitored by WDA and partner groups • 1 community wants to initiate CWF
Erika Valadez represented WDA on a tour of Oak Creek and Waukesha water facilities with CHAW, DHS, MUSOD and WDHA on June 6. Group shown difference between surface water plant and well water plant and the fluoride processes.
Most recent activity in: • Green Bay - Resident has contacted city attorney claiming CWF is “illegal” and has asked for a meeting. • Holmen - Another public referendum scheduled for spring 2014 • Land O’ Lakes - Halted CWF in May. Dr. Peter Schindelholz testified at June 9 meeting and is working with WDA and state to restore. • Phelps - Resident has contacted state’s Department of Health Services about bringing CWF to this northern community. • Tigerton - Halted CWF in April.
Erika also joined Drs. Dave Clemens (Wisconsin Dells), Cliff Hartmann (New Berlin) and Brian Hodgson (Lake Geneva) at the first ADA fluoride spokesperson training in April.
Objections are often tied to budget and/or safety concerns.
Both cities said adding fluoride is simple process and they have no issues.
Dentist and dental hygienist members are invited to join in the WDA Facebook discussion on Fluoride Fridays. Members facing fluoride challenges in their communities OR who would like to have their local water supplies fluoridated should contact Erika Valadez (evaladez@wda.org) for WDA assistance.
WDA continues to use its ADA State Public Affairs grant to implement proactive, coordinated, statewide communications plan with focus on educating WDA members, local elected officials and the general public about fluoridation’s benefits via WDA.org website, social media, “Tongue ‘n’ Cheek…and Teeth, too!” patient newsletter, press releases, letters to editors and Op Eds and the WDA Healthy Choices Legislative E-Lert.
Children’s Health Alliance of Wisconsin, state Department of Health Services’ Division of Public Health, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Wisconsin Oral Health Coalition, WDA and Wisconsin Dental Hygienists Association working together on “rapid response process” and public education in communities with fluoridation challenge.
Legislative-related meetings 2013
• Dentistry Examining Board: Sept. 4, Nov. 6; all meetings are held at Department of Safety and Professional Services, 1400 E. Washington Ave. in Madison and start promptly at 8:30 a.m. • Sept. 18 – Wisconsin Oral Health Coalition: 2013 annual meeting; 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.; Holiday Inn & Convention Center, Stevens Point; WDA covers registration fee for any member attending. Contact Erika Valadez in the Madison office at 608-250-3442 or evaladez@wda.org with questions or to add your name to the registration list. • Oct. 7 - Joint Racine County Dental Society, Kenosha County Dental Society and Burlington Dental Society Legislative Night; Bristol Oaks Golf Club, HWY 50, Only 2 miles west of I-94; 6:30 p.m. cocktails, 7 p.m. dinner.
2014
• Feb. 4 - Waukesha County Dental Society; Legislative Town Hall Meeting; 6 - 8 p.m.; details to be announced.
WDA.org
August 2013
WDA Journal
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Messages
Timothy Durtsche, DDS, WDA President tdurtsche@wda.org
Life is good. Gratitude is even better.
W
hether in a solo, small-group or largegroup practice, all dentists depend upon their dental teams. They allow us to provide optimum care for our patients. This month we recognize our staffs. This is not just about the employees in our office, but also our lab technicians, our dental supply salespeople and the other ancillary people who help us do our best. As an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, I have front office reception, secretarial and insurance personnel. In the patient care areas, I have oral surgical assistants and have employed nurses in the past. I don’t employ dental hygienists, so my only interaction with them is as a patient. For many patients, it is all about how they relate to the staff. Whether they are treated like family, how personable staff members are and if they like the dental hygienist may determine whether they stay at an office, even if they like their dentist and the dentist’s skills. For me, I could not function without a great staff. I have never forgotten what I was told as a resident, “A good surgeon deserves a good staff and a bad surgeon needs one.”
As dentists, we have a lot to do with providing good patient care and support staff is there to help us, as a team, give that care effectively, efficiently and with kindness. “No matter the setting, we don’t do it alone. Take time to recognize the skills and dedication it takes to make your team effective.” Ordering supplies, keeping up with implant patients and their restoring offices, scheduling patients, helping me with my Wisconsin Dental Association duties, assisting in surgery, X-rays, financial arrangements and the ever present insurance challenges are all aspects of running my office. I am dependent on them to handle these things, so I can focus on surgery. Our supply salespeople are great resources, learning about our practice and what works best for us. Helping us with the products and supplies that we need to be efficient and also to provide the best care.
Over the years I have been in practice, there have been many new innovations. Although I like to get as much information as possible from lectures and handson experiences, I do rely on my suppliers to get me the information I need and do price comparisons when necessary. For most of us, the dental laboratory is a close relationship. Most dentists have one or a few technicians they want to work with. The high quality dental work I see in the mouths of Wisconsin patients is a testament to the type of laboratory work done here. We may practice dentistry as a solo practitioner, in a group practice with a few or many dentists, in a government-supported clinic, hospital or medical clinic or in a dental or technical school. No matter the setting, we don’t do it alone. Take time to recognize the skills and dedication it takes to make your team effective. It is always good to tell people the good you see in them and thank them. Word on the street is gratitude is pretty effective at home and in the community too.
Robert Brennan, DDS, WDA Editor rbrennan@wda.org
Economic challenges in dentistry
I
f you have noticed a decline in your office production and holes in your schedule, you are not alone. I found this to be a common lament when I talked to dentists at component meetings across the state the last two years. Recently, the American Dental Association released a series of research briefs on dental economic issues which confirm what dentists have been relating to me. These reports can be accessed at ada.org/1442.aspx if you would like to read them. We all realize there was a decline in dental care with the beginning of the recession in 2007. However, the ADA data shows dentistry was already in decline well before the recession arrived. According to the data, dentist incomes showed steady growth for decades before peaking in 2005. They then declined through 2008 and finally leveled off from 2009 through 2011. Per capita dental spending actually began to decrease even earlier. Between 1990 and 2002, it increased 3.9 percent per year. From 2002 to 2008, it slowed to 1.8 percent per year and from 2008-2011 it actually declined 0.3 percent per year. Adults’ dental utilization rates (measured by percentage of the population having a dental visit) began
Editorial Advisory Board WDA Editor Robert Brennan, DDS, Neenah 920-725-0551 • rbrennan@new.rr.com Robert Darling, DDS, Sheboygan 920-457-1717 • rdarling@midwest-dental.com Ellyn English, DDS, La Crosse 608-775-2696 • ellynmenglish@gmail.com Glenn Gequillana, DDS, Milwaukee 414-649-3510 • nicjenglen@msn.com Gene Shoemaker, DDS, Waukesha 262-542-0326 • gopackshoe@aol.com
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declining in 2003. The largest declines were in young and low-income adults. Only the 65 and older group’s dental utilization rate remained steady. According to the briefs, one of the main reasons for the decline in adult visits was a steady decrease in adults with dental benefit plans from 2000 to 2011.
“For now, we may need to do a little retrenching. We might want to get back to doing more basic “bread-and-butter” dentistry to compensate for the decline in demand for high-end cosmetic dentistry or offer our patients more treatment options to accommodate their budgets.” From 2000 to 2011, dental utilization rates increased for children; but, all of this increase was for lowincome children most of whom were on Medicaid and unlikely to contribute much to dentistry’s bottom line. The one bright spot was that from 2000 to 2010, per patient spending for adults 65 and older increased. With baby boomers just starting to reach retirement age, this could be a good growth area for years to come.
Submitting
So, be nice to your senior patients! Since dentistry was already in decline before the recession hit, this helps explain why dentistry has not rebounded as expected with the improving economy. The economics of dentistry are changing. Several factors are already affecting or will affect dentistry, such as growth in group practices, corporate practices, dental service organization-supported practices and Federally Qualified Health Centers. Student debt and health care reform could also negatively impact dentistry. Clearly though, a shift in dental spending is occurring and it is the main cause of our lack of busyness. For now, we may need to do a little retrenching. We might want to get back to doing more basic “breadand-butter” dentistry to compensate for the decline in demand for high-end cosmetic dentistry or offer our patients more treatment options to accommodate their budgets. Hopefully, things will improve soon, but unfortunately we have no idea when or if that will happen. The ADA and your Wisconsin Dental Association will continue to monitor these changes and keep you informed.
letters to the editor
The WDA Journal invites readers to express their views in letters to the editor. This provides a forum for discussing topics of interest to the dental profession. To be considered, letters must be 300 words or less and signed with an e-mail address or phone number. The Editorial Board reserves the right to edit for space, clarity, civility and accuracy. Any changes will be shared with the writer before publication. If your letter is selected, contact will be made to confirm receipt.
Submit letters to the editor via email to ebultman@wda.org or fax to 414-755-4111. You may also mail your letter to: WDA Journal | Attn: Dr. Robert Brennan | 6737 W. Washington St. | Suite 2360 | West Allis, WI 53214 WDA style note: We make every effort to bold members’ names in articles.
August 2013 WDA.org
communiqu e´ AUGUST 2013 V OL UME 89, N UM BE R 8
Are WDA e-communications hiding in your spam folder? Amanda Brezgel WDA Electronic Communications Coordinator abrezgel@wda.org
Editor Robert Brennan, DDS, Neenah 920-725-0551 • rbrennan@wda.org Executive Editor Mark Paget 414-755-4100 • mpaget@wda.org Managing Editor Emily Bultman 414-755-4110 • ebultman@wda.org OFFICERS President Timothy Durtsche, DDS, La Crosse 608-784-7319 • tdurtsche@wda.org President-Elect Julio Rodriguez, DDS, Brodhead 608-897-8645 • jrodriguez@wda.org Vice President Paul Levine, DDS, Milwaukee 414-355-0213 • plevine@wda.org Past-President Steven Stoll, DDS, Neenah 920-725-4307 • sstoll@wda.org Treasurer John R. Moser, DDS, Milwaukee 414-273-9800 • jmoser@wda.org Editor Robert Brennan, DDS, Neenah 920-725-0551 • rbrennan@wda.org Executive Director/Secretary Mark Paget, West Allis 414-755-4100 • mpaget@wda.org Region 1 Northwest David Kenyon, DDS, Altoona 715-832-3385 • dkenyon@wda.org Jeff Nehring, DDS, Mercer 715-476-3432• jnehring@wda.org Jennifer Peglow, DDS, Stevens Point 715-344-2324 • jpeglow@wda.org Region 2 Northeast Paul Feit, DDS, Sturgeon Bay 920-743-6976 • pfeit@wda.org Peter Hehli, DDS, Appleton 920-997-1557 • phehli@wda.org Jeffrey Kraig, DDS, Fond du Lac 920-922-9000 • jkraig@wda.org
The Wisconsin Dental Association uses a variety of electronic communication tools to help keep members, lawmakers and the general public up-to-date on oral health topics. Examples include the monthly WDA Executive Director’s Update, periodic Healthy Choices E-Lert, quarterly Component Connection and Tongue ‘n’ Cheek… and Teeth, too!, annual Mission of Mercy volunteer newsletters, Give Kids A Smile® e-Update (September through February) and, as-needed, Hot Issues. For members to receive WDA e-communications, your current email address must be on file with the Executive Office in West Allis. Send updated email addresses to WDA Member Services Representative Christine Peacy at cpeacy@wda.org. The WDA takes the privacy of our 3,000-plus member dentists and dental hygienists seriously. We do not sell or in any other way share our members’ email addresses or personal information. According to ReturnPath, expect 10-20 percent of emails to get lost in cyberspace, mostly due to overzealous spam filters. To ensure WDA emails are not going into your spam filter, add info@wda.org to your safe, trusted or approved senders’ list, address book and/or contact list. How you add this depends on your
Region 5 Southwest L. Stanley Brysh, DMD, Madison 608-417-6500 • lbrysh@meriter.com David Clemens, DDS, Wisconsin Dells 608-254-2345• dclemens@wda.org Patrick Tepe, DDS, Verona 608-848-4000 • ptepe@wda.org Region 6 Student Region Derek Schmidt Marquette University School of Dentistry dschmidt@wda.org Speaker of the House Richard Lofthouse, DDS, Fennimore 608-822-3770 • dlofthouse@wda.org ADA 9th District Trustee Dennis Engel, DDS, CDE, Mequon 262-242-8929 • engeld@ada.org
MUSOD student Navorris Smith (left) and his mentor, Dr. Michael Donohoo of Milwaukee (right), at the Mentor Program Kick-Off Dinner in September 2012.
MSN Hotmail 1. Go to the “Options” page 2. On the left side of the page, click “Mail,” and then click “Junk Email Protection” 3. Click “Add Senders to Safe List” 4. Type out the email address of the sender and then click “Add”
Should you have further questions, please contact WDA Electronic Communications Coordinator Amanda Brezgel at abrezgel@wda.org or 414-7554112. Award-winning electronic communications are a benefit of WDA membership and an easy way to stay current on oral health topics and developments in dentistry. Subscribe to WDA e-newsletters at www.wda.org/enewsletter-sign-up.
SERVE
The Wisconsin Dental Association is seeking about 30 new mentors to welcome into the Mentor Program as resources for Marquette University School of Dentistry’s student protégés - the dentists of tomorrow for the 2013-2015 school years. Mentors and protégés will meet for the first time and be welcomed into the WDA, MUSOD and Pierre Fauchard Academy Mentor Program at the annual kick-off dinner on Sept. 30, 2013. Mentors and protégés define where they want their relationship to go. A mentor is: • A wise and trusted friend • A good listener; someone who cares • Someone who helps another devel-
Dr. Michael Jumes (Sheboygan) Dr. Lauren Mies (Milwaukee) Sheboygan County Dental Greater Milwaukee Dental Society Association Nicole Kropidlowski, RDH (Pittsville) Dr. Emily LaBadie (Burlington) Racine County Dental Society Dr. Douglas Martin (Sheboygan) Sheboygan County Dental Society
Dr. Carissa Molinas (Milwaukee) Greater Milwaukee Dental Association Dr. Linnea Morton (Kenosha) Kenosha County Dental Society Orlando Ortiz Utrera, RDH (Hales Corners) Rachele Richard, RDH (Cuba City)
Dr. Marcelo Romero-Shu (Cudahy) Kim Merrick, RDH (Appleton) Greater Milwaukee Dental Association WDA.org
Gmail 1. Open the email 2. Click “More Options” in the email header 3. Click “Add Sender to Contact List”
op his or her own vision and work to their fullest potential • Someone who has been there • Someone to serve as a resource of information Visit WDA.org for more information about this remarkable program. Contact Susan John at 800-364-7646 or sjohn@wda.org by Aug. 1 to become a mentor and attend the kick-off dinner.
S ave
the date !
M entor P rogram K ick - off D inner S ept . 30, 2013
New members continued from page 1
Dr. Maxwell Meinerz Milwaukee Greater Milwaukee Dental Association
Member Publication
Follow these instructions Outlook 2007, Outlook 2003 or Outlook Express 1. Go to “Actions” on your email menu bar. Select “Junk Email” from pull down menu. Select “Add Sender to Safe Senders List” 2. Right-click in the message and select “Add the Sender to Safe Senders List”
Yahoo! Mail 1. Select the “Not Spam” button to indicate messages should be delivered to your inbox not your bulk folder
Mentors needed
Region 3 Greater Milwaukee Thomas Kielma, DDS, Milwaukee 262-649-3510 • tkielma@wda.org Lynn Lepak-McSorley, DDS, Milwaukee 414-383-8787 • llepak-mcsorley@wda.org Thomas Raimann, DDS, Hales Corners 414-425-1510 • traimann@wda.org Region 4 Southeast Ryan Braden, DDS, Lake Geneva 262-248-0120 • rbraden@wda.org Cliff Hartmann, DDS, Greenfield 414-543-4700 • chartmann@wda.org Ned Murphy, DDS, Racine 262-886-9440 • nmurphy@wda.org
email provider (e.g., Yahoo, Gmail, Outlook).
Dr. Zachary Rosen (Milwaukee) Greater Milwaukee Dental Association Dr. James Schaeffer (Waukesha) Waukesha County Dental Society Dr. Samuel Schmidt (Green Bay) Brown Door Kewaunee Dental Society Dr. Amanda Scott (Green Bay) Brown Door Kewaunee Dental Society Dr. Casey Sidders (Wauwatosa) Greater Milwaukee Dental Association August 2013
Colleen Soetenga, RDH (Madison) Dr. Ashley Sorenson (Reedsburg) Sauk Juneau Adams Dental Society Dr. Johanna Spoke (Milwaukee) Greater Milwaukee Dental Association Tamara Tucker, RDH (Winneconne) Dr. Mary Vezzetti (Sussex) Waukesha County Dental Society
WDA Journal
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BUSINESS of Dentistry Five things every practice should do in today’s economy Howard Farran DDS, MBA, MAGD
The recession has been over for two years. Patients who put off the filling they should have gotten three years ago are coming back in need of a Howard Farran root canal. The one thing every recession teaches the dental profession (but we often forget) is that for as hard as things get during the recession, we’re going to see an influx of patients, due to massive pent-up demand. We have seen 10 recessions in the United States since World War II, and we are bound to see another. Those of us who weathered the storm and kept our practices open should feel fortunate, yes, but, it also indicates that you did something right. Even two years out from this recession, many of us are still wary. We still hear a lot about tax increases and spending cuts. The uncertainty driven by recent economic times – especially for those who own small businesses – is almost palpable. Patients are coming back, but that does not mean we should rest on our laurels. Now is the time you need to reinvest in your business. Here are five things you should consider doing right now that I believe will create opportunity for increased revenue, better patient care and long-term success.
Take ownership
Right now is an amazing time to purchase your own property. Since 2007, the cost of owning real estate has decreased. In some areas, you can buy buildings at almost half the cost of what they were six years ago. When you own your building you are no longer subject to the uncertainty of rent increases when your lease is up for renewal. Your monthly payments to the bank are set in stone for the next 20 to 30 years. Your monthly payments also build equity in a real, tangible asset that most likely will appreciate over time. This is a no-brainer. You need to own your own building.
Be ready for emergencies
Most hospitals have an emergency room where they can accommodate unscheduled patients in need of care. Many general dental practices do not. In fact, if a patient calls with an emergency, many dentists are ill-equipped to see them that same day and might not be able to schedule an immediate appointment. If a patient with a broken tooth calls a practice and hears, “We can fit you in the day after tomorrow,” that patient hangs up and searches for a practice that will
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see him immediately. When you turn away an emergency patient, you lose the opportunity to get them out of pain that very day, and you lose the immediate bump in revenue (and you’re certainly not going to earn that patient’s repeat business either). Dentists should invest in their business by creating an “emergency operatory” – a room that is always open and never scheduled – so patients needing immediate care can come in and get the treatment they need immediately. This is such a win-win situation: Patients get the care they need when they need to get out of pain, and practices that can accommodate these emergency patients see around $50,000 more in production each year.
in your business by increasing your marketing efforts, especially online. Optimize your website, particularly for mobile devices. Make sure your SEO strategy is both effective and efficient. Invest in Google ads. Consider social media as an inexpensive way to create and maintain patient relationships that only costs you time, inspiration and effort. Connect with colleagues on sites like Dentaltown.com to find out which marketing tactics work for them. Reach out to your vendor partners to tap into free marketing resources they may have available.
Go digital and be real
Automated messages and phone systems are not only annoying but they might be losing you business. I’ve practiced dentistry for more than 25 years and I’ve seen that if you increase the number of calls that are answered by a real, live person, you’re going to increase the number of patients you see. Period. Unfortunately, most dental practices staff our front office phones from 9-to-5, taking an hour off for lunch. Yet, your phone starts ringing at 6 a.m. and you might get calls until 6 or 7 p.m. You need to find out if you are missing calls and opportunity. Invest in a digital phone system with Voice-over Internet Protocol where your calls are sent over the Internet not public “wires.” This allows for more detailed telephone call tracking and management. Once you have VoIP, you can track and manage incoming calls, gaining a better understanding of when they are coming in, from where and how long they last. VoIP can even track dropped calls – those where the patient terminates the call without leaving a message. Using this information, you can make sure that when the majority of incoming calls are made you have a friendly, helpful, live person picking up the phone, accommodating your patients and setting appointments.
Market like Michael
When it comes to marketing, Michael Dell – founder, chairman and CEO of Dell, Inc. – is a legend. In March 2000 the NASDAQ was at 5,056. Then it popped and most Internet stocks plummeted. Instead of cutting his marketing budget to cut costs as his competitors did, Michael Dell increased his marketing budget threefold and launched the famous “Dude, You Got a Dell!” campaign. Many thought he was crazy, but just three short years later, Dell Computers overtook Hewlett-Packard Co. to become the world’s largest computer maker. In any economy – good or bad – invest
Take control of your money
It makes little sense to have your hardearned money sitting in someone else’s bank account instead of yours. If you choose to extend credit to patients yourself, you put your cash flow and retirement at risk. Remember, you are not a bank! Limit your accounts receivable to underestimated insurance. Everything else should be collected at time of treatment. If patients would like to pay over time, use an outside financing program like CareCredit. That way you get paid immediately, have the cash flow available to invest in real estate, an emergency room and other overhead expenses – without stress – and you keep finances out of your patient relationships. There’s a saying I live by: “You can either fly with the eagles or trot with the turkeys.” It’s your choice. You can either blame the economy for your practice’s stagnant growth or you can take control and invest in your business, and in the items above, which will provide you with a positive return, now and for years to come. Dr. Howard Farran is a noted international lecturer and founder and publisher of Dentaltown Magazine.
Update your Notice of Privacy Practices by Sept. 23 Brett Lindstrom WDA Professional Services Director blindstrom@wda.org
Everyone is familiar with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act regulation that requires you to distribute a Notice of Privacy Practices to all patients. In return, all patients must sign an acknowledgement indicating they have reviewed the notice. While most patients don’t actually review the information, certain content is required to be included on your notice. A new HIPAA final rule was published in January and became effective in March. Referred to as the Omnibus Rule, these new regulations include required changes to the wording of your Notice of Privacy Practices. Dental offices have until Sept. 23, 2013 to comply. One change to the notice involves fundraising and marketing. The notice must now indicate if a patient’s Protected Health Information is used for fundraising and patients have the right to opt out. If there is a disclosure of PHI for marketing purposes or the sale of PHI, a written authorization must first be obtained from the patient. The Breach Notification Rule was part of the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act passed back in 2009. The new notice must now inform patients of the dental office’s obligation to notify patients in the event of a breach of unsecured PHI. Another change to the content also applies notice, but also to the physical disclosure of PHI. In certain circumstances as in the event a patient pays for services out of pocket in full, the patient now has a right to request the dental office not to disclose treatment information for this service to a health plan. If applicable, a patient also now has a right to an electronic copy of their records if preferred. The patient must be notified of this right in the Notice of Privacy Practices. It is a violation of HIPAA to send a patient’s PHI via email without any type of encryption or security measures. However, a dental office is allowed to send regular email containing PHI directly to the patient, but only if the patient requests this and is informed of the possible security risks of emailing sensitive information. The Notice of Privacy Practices should contain an effective date of when the office first started distributing the new notice. Distribution is only required to patients as they come in for appointments. Only new patients who have not yet signed an Acknowledgement of Receipt of Privacy Practices Notice are required to sign a new acknowledgement. No changes are required to the acknowledgement form. If a dental office has a website, as of Sept. 23 it is required to post the updated Notice of Privacy Practices to the website. Contact The Dental Record at 800-2434675 or www.dentalrecord.com for more information or to receive a copy of a new and compliant Notice of Privacy Practices.
August 2013 WDA.org
Key
takeaways...
• Review practices to create opportunity for increased revenue • Dental offices have until Sept. 23, 2013 to comply with new Notice of Private Practices change • First step in improving collections is having a defined credit policy • New dental spending briefs available at http://bit.ly/17aCGEW
Improving collections and increasing cash flow Devlin Holt Transworld Systems District Manager devlin.holt@transworldsystems.com
It’s a problem faced by virtually every dental practice - how to deal with patients who pay their bills late, or not at all. While patients expect prompt and professional service, they don’t always meet the same standard when it comes to paying their bills. Accounts not paid within terms can severely impact the cash flow of a practice. A clearly defined and carefully communicated, yet diplomatic payment policy may help avoid difficult collection situations. Following these 10 simple steps can dramatically improve your results. Have a defined credit policy The first step is to clearly define when accounts are to be paid. If patients are not informed that accounts are to be paid on time, chances are they’ll pay late or sometimes not at all. Make sure your practice’s terms of payment are clearly stated in writing to each patient. Invoice promptly and send statements regularly If your practice doesn’t have a systematic billing system, get one! Many times the patient hasn’t paid simply because they haven’t been billed or reminded to pay in a timely manner. This situation frequently occurs in smaller or newer practices where there isn’t enough staff to handle invoicing and billing. Use “Address Service Requested” One of the most difficult collection problems is tracking down a patient who has “skipped” or moved without informing your practice of their new address. Any statement you send to the patient should have the words “Address Service Requested” printed or stamped on the envelope just below your practice’s return address in the top left corner. If a statement or invoice is sent to a patient who has moved and the words
“Address Service Requested” appear on your practice’s envelope, the post office will research this information. If they can locate a change of address for that patient, they will send your practice form #3547 with the correct address for a small fee. This also keeps your practice’s patient address file up to date. Contact overdue patients more frequently No law says your practice can contact a patient only once a month. The old adage, “The squeaky wheel gets the grease,” has a great deal of merit when it comes to collecting past due accounts. Contacting late payers once per week will enable your staff to diplomatically remind the patient of your practice’s terms of payment. Use your aging sheet, not your feelings Many practices (or well-meaning people on their staff) have let an account age beyond the point of ever being collected, because he or she, or even the dentist, “felt” the patient would pay eventually. While there certainly are isolated cases of unusual situations, the truth is that if your practice isn’t being paid, someone else probably is. So stick to your practice’s systematic plan of following up. Soon it will be apparent who intends to really pay and who doesn’t. Appropriate action can and should be taken once you know where your practice stands. Make sure your staff is trained Even “experienced” staff members can sometimes be jaded when dealing with past-due accounts. This usually occurs when the patient has made and broken promises for payment. Make sure the staff is firm, yet courteous when dealing with them.
Your practice’s collection staff may benefit from customer service training because, in effect, they must “sell” your patient on the idea that your practice expects to be paid. Make sure that your practice’s collection staff is trained to not only bring the account current, but to also maintain good will. Admit and correct Devlin Holt any mistakes on your part Sometimes patients don’t pay because they think your practice has made a billing error, and if that’s the case, quickly admit it and correct it. Generally, patients realize that mistakes can happen in business. Unfortunately, some patients believe the dentist doesn’t need the money. Denying an obvious error only feeds the fire of resentment your patient may already feel. Follow the collection laws in your state In many states, businesses are governed by the same collection laws as are collection agencies. For example, calling to collect on an account at an odd hour or disclosing to a third-party that a person owes your business money are just a couple of the collection practices that can cause serious repercussions. Contact the Wisconsin Department of Finance for any clarification on the collection laws. Use a third-party earlier If your practice has systematically pursued a past-due account for 60-90 days from the due date and it still isn’t paid, the patient is
obviously sending you a message. More than likely, your practice’s staff has requested payment four to six times in the form of phone calls, letters and statements. The time and financial resources budgeted for internal collection efforts should be focused within the first 90 days when the bulk of accounts can and should be collected. From that point on, a third party can motivate a patient to pay in ways your practice cannot, simply because the demand for payment is coming from someone other than your practice. Avoid paying a percentage to a contingency collection agency, using a small claims court or hiring a collection attorney by utilizing a flat-fee collection service. By using account receivable management services, you can save your practice time and money and dramatically increase your cash flow. Remember nobody collects every account Even with a carefully designed and administered collection plan, there are a few patients that will never be collected. Save your practice time and money by identifying these accounts early. At the same time, your practice will benefit from the improved cash flow from the vast majority of patients that do pay. Developing and implementing a sound collections policy is a vital part of running a successful practice. Follow these 10 steps and watch your practice thrive while maintaining a good professional relationship with your patients. Transworld Systems is endorsed by the WDA. To learn more call 608-276-8307 or visit http://web. transworldsystems.com.
Dental spending remains flat Rob Raible ADA Public Affairs Manager raibler@ada.org
Overall spending on dental care in Wisconsin and across the United States has remained flat in recent years, despite the fact that per patient dental spending by baby boomers and seniors increased. Two research briefs released in April 2013 by the American Dental Association’s Health Policy Resources Center bolster previous statistics showing that adult dental visits declined from 2000 to 2010, leading to less spending on dentistry and oral care. Significantly, the declines in both dental spending and visits predate the economic crisis of 2008. In 2011, dental spending accounted for 4 percent of overall national health expenditures, down from 4.5 percent in 2000, according to HPRC analysis of data gathered from the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services, the Bureau of Economic Analysis and the U.S. Census Bureau.
WDA.org
The rate of growth of dental spending has also slowed in recent years. Between 1990 and 2002, per capita dental spending grew by 3.9 percent per year after adjusting for inflation, a rate that fell to 1.8 percent between 2002 and 2008. Since 2008, the per capita dental expenditure growth rate declined 0.3 percent while overall health spending grew by 1.6 percent. According to a previous HPRC brief, 41 percent of adults reported going to the dentist during the prior year in 2003. That figure declined to 37 percent in 2010. Children, however, visited dentists more often between 2003 and 2010, but since their dental care tends to be less expensive than adults’, it did not result in greater dental spending overall. While overall dental expenditures have remained flat, the HPRC analysis shows there’s more to the story –spend-
ing by baby boomers and the elderly is on the rise. Between 2000 and 2010, seniors’ annual spending on their dental care increased from $655 to $796. The HPRC credits the increase to
advances in preventive and restorative dental care, leading to greater numbers of elderly retaining their teeth. To read the full research briefs, visit http://bit.ly/17aCGEW.
August 2013
WDA Journal
7
Focus on: the dental team
Benefits and the dental team Mara Roberts, CLU, RHU, REBC WDAISC President mroberts@insuranceformembers.net
Not only is offering a solid benefit package important to the morale and retention of your employees, regular communication concerning what those benefits are and how to use them is even more important. Instead of seeing benefits communication as a chore, look at it as an opportunity to showcase your place of employment and show your employees you care. Multiple meetings throughout the year highlighting various benefits not only help your employees gain a greater understanding of what you are providing for them, it helps to solidify the message that, “This is a great place to work.” Flyers in the breakroom, internal email messaging - do whatever you can to reinforce the positive message concerning what is available to your employees. Typically, when we talk to employers about employee benefits, they probably think about cost and insurance. Let me redirect your focus and share a few no cost items that your employees, especially those born after 1990, would see as a “benefit” to working at your practice that you may not have considered. For example, flexible schedules and being asked their opinion on workplace matters are often seen as more important than more standard benefit offerings. They also enjoy social events out-
side the workplace, such as community events or activities.
“You will be surprised at how something as easy as communicating with your employees about the benefits you have put in place for them will change the environment of your practice.” The younger your employees the more socially networked they are so group outings, events or lunches would be a well-received benefit. If you are offering these things, be sure to include them in your “benefits
package” list. It will make it easier for recruiting purposes as well as retention purposes. Regarding standard benefits, as an employer you can do a few things to help your employees that will cost little to no money: • Offer voluntary benefits Minimally short and long-term disability and life insurance should be made available for your employees to purchase. These items are very inexpensive and extremely important for the protection of as assets – especially if no other insurance is in place. • Offer health care FSAs - Despite the low cap of $2,500, there is no excuse for not making them available. Once employees understand how they work, the contribution level typically increases. • Refer them to your professional association for advice regarding their personal insurance needs. As a staff member, they are eligible to take advantage of services and many programs. You will be surprised at how something as easy as communicating with your employees about the benefits you have put in place for them will change the environment of your practice. Benefits are an important part of building a dental team – and keeping that team in place.
Employment engagement continued from page 1
Be flexible
According to the National Study of the Changing Workforce, 87 percent of employees report that having workplace flexibility would be “extremely” or “very important” if they were looking for a new job. Flexibility at the workplace allows your dental team members to live fulfilling lives outside their place of employment resulting in a happier workforce.
Training opportunities
Staff development is not limited to seminars. Often overlooked are cost-efficient development and training which includes: • Expanding duties within an employee’s current role and responsibilities • Looking to your internal experts to train • Utilizing free workshops and webinars offered by vendors • Bringing an expert to your workplace • Offering employee coaching
Build a community
Give employees an opportunity to express opinions on managing costs and providing new treatments. Ask for feedback and respond to it. Consistent feedback goes a long way with employees for several reasons: • Lets them know where they stand within the company (i.e., dental practice)
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WDA Journal
• Acts as a reminder of what’s expected of them, especially if they’re not meeting expectations • A great opportunity to offer positive feedback • Gives insight into the employee perspective Schedule regular, one-on-one meetings with your dental team and invite them to provide you with feedback and tell you what they believe they bring to the practice. Then, in turn, you can give them feedback to help guide them through the next few months.
Put the fun back into work
Coordinating social events where employees can get together and get to know one another better can help foster a stronger connection to the workplace and keep employees more engaged and happier at work. Ideas include: • Offering a lunch-n-learn seminar • Hosting birthday and anniversary celebrations • Volunteer as a team for a philanthropic effort In addition to the intrinsic motivational tools provided, extrinsic factors also play a part in retaining engaged employees.
Invest in your employees
The ability to engage and retain valuable employees has a significant impact
on an organization’s (and a dental practice’s) bottom line. By using low-cost employee engagement tools, your return on investment can be exponential. Contact QTI Consulting at 608-6634801 or consulting@qstaff.com to learn more about the “Total Value Survey” and employee engagement. Are you paying your top employees competitively within the market? Are your employees happy with the benefits they are receiving? These extrinsic factors may be affected by the Affordable Care Act and the potential employee impact is a great concern for many organizations. Find out what is most valued by your employees by conducting a “Total Value Survey” as a step in your engagement process. This survey allows employers to gain a deeper understanding of the effectiveness of their attraction and retention drivers, and the current state of their motivational factors.
Good ways to handle dental team selection Bill Blatchford, DDS Blatchford Solutions CEO bill@blatchford.com
Your team speaks volumes about who you are, your skills, your standards of care and your dreams. Having an accountable and well-trained team is as critical to practice success as taking continuing education courses. Bill Blatchford
“Just when you feel you have
the magic team, someone will probably need to move. Team selection is an ongoing process and requires action. Your strong vision is the guide.”
Your team is a measure of your vision. If your vision is ill defined or absent, team members will do their own thing, at their own pace and with their own standards. If the leader’s vision or dream is well defined and communicated, team members can follow you and become committed to the practice’s dream. They will contribute ideas, programs and protocols on their own. They will demonstrate their commitment to the practice’s success, and the best ones will encourage their fellow teammates to measure up. The real team players will eventually leave if you allow someone who does not meet your standards to continue employment. Where does that leave you, the leader? How do you find these team members? They may already have a position in your community, but perhaps not in dentistry. You will notice they have a positive attitude, they are a giver and they go the extra step. You should approach these stars and ask continued on page 9
August 2013 WDA.org
Focus on: the dental team Featured dental teams include: (far left) from left to right: Midwest Dental - Green Bay Northeast; (immediate left) Sawyer Creek Orthodontics in Oshkosh; and (right); Dr. Paul Levine and his dental team in Milwaukee. Dental teams featured on front page include: (left) Long Dental Studio in Wisconsin Dells and (right) Drs. Christina Couillard and Frank Caputo with Cudahy Dental Associates.
RDH members get involved Jennifer Austin, RDH More than 100 registered dental (Milwaukee) recently joined hygienists have joined the Wisconsin the WDA Legislative Advocacy Dental Association since the new Committee. membership category launched last Additional opportunities for year. dental hygienists to get involved Since then, opportunities have include serving on the Annual become available for members to get Session Committee, Editorial involved in the organization. Advisory Board and Membership Beth Hettwer, RDH (Fond Committee. du Lac) accepted an invitation to Contact Amy Landis at serve on the WDA Public Relations alandis@wda.org or 414-755Committee. 4126 for more information about She has already reviewed and proWDA dental hygiene membervided comments for various items including, the new WDA Primary Anna Stamas, RDH (Brookfield) volunteers at the WDA and ship. To apply, visit WDA.org and (Baby) Tooth Development chart. WDA Foundation Mission of Mercy event. Other WDA “I enjoy hearing about all the work hygiene members were also present at the two-day event in complete an application. Lake Geneva. that goes on behind-the-scenes to We look forward to continued make the WDA run as efficiently as it relationships with these valued one more outlook into the different does. Having a dental hygienist on the members of the dental team. WDA Public Relations Committee, adds topics discussed,” Ms. Hettwer said. Together, we are the WDA! Team selection continued from page 8
if they would like to interview with you for a position. Place an ad online. You want your team to be computer literate, so where would the most qualified people be looking for work? They will probably be searching online help wanted sites. Be more right-brained in your appeal, using words such as energy, self-starter, imagine, communicate and fulfilling patient dreams. Eliminate any responses with misspelling and grammatical errors. Also, watch for responses that are all about them and
say nothing about their contribution to the practice. Absolutely check references and ask, “Would you work with this person again?” Arrange a working interview and ask the person specifically to do a certain task or follow a simple script. Have your team members or best patients involved in the selection process. Once someone has passed these tests, integrate them into the team immediately. When selected, welcome them by providing a uniform and include them in the bonus. Continually work on cross
New tooth eruption chart posted online Primary (Baby) Tooth Development
Upper Teeth
FUN FACT! A child will usually have 20 teeth by age 3.
Lower Teeth
Upper Teeth
Erupt
Lost*
Central incisor
8-12 months
6-7 years
Lateral incisor
9-13 months
7-8 years
Canine (cuspid)
16-22 months
10-12 years
First molar
13-19 months
9-11 years
Second molar
25-33 months
10-12 years
Lower Teeth
Erupt
Lost*
Second molar
23-31 months
10-12 years
First molar
14-18 months
9-11 years
Canine (cuspid)
17-23 months
9-12 years
Lateral incisor
10-16 months
7-8 years
Central incisor
6-10 months
6-7 years
* Primary (baby) teeth are shed (lost) and replaced with permanent (adult) teeth.
training. Take them to your continuing education classes. Make them feel an important part of the team by asking for their contributions and ideas. Give specific comments and compliment them when you see them doing something right. Just when you feel you have the magic team, someone will probably need to move. Team selection is an ongoing process and requires action. Your strong vision is the guide.
Ways to lead the team Do you ever wonder why you go to a continuing education event or hire a consultant and get great information, yet come home and nothing changes? To overcome being stuck in a rut, you must have a vision and code of conduct where ongoing growth and improvement is expected and where authentic relationships and accountability take place. You must surround yourself with team members of high character who are willing to coach their teammates, as well as be coached by them. - Penny Limoli, Limoli and Associates
A great team is a group of leaders tied together by a common sense of purpose. It’s a group that realizes “the sum of the whole is greater than the individual parts.” A great team is made up of people who thrive on the achievements of each other, who are not jealous of each other’s successes. You can create your dental team by identifying the strengths of your team members and overlooking the weaknesses. This, I believe, may be the single greatest factor in becoming an outstanding leader. Be courageous and confident enough to acknowledge and reinforce the strengths of your team members.
-Dr. John H. Jameson, Jameson Management Source: DentistryIQ
WDA dental hygienist membership benefits As valuable members of the dental team, we want you to be part of our state’s largest association for dental professionals. Dues are only $75 and member benefits include: • Monthly WDA Journal subscription • Access to monthly Executive Director’s Update and other members-only electronic newsletters (when your current email is on file with the WDA) • Annual WDA Sourcebook (Member Directory & Practice Guide) • Access to members-only section on WDA.org • Opportunities to serve on WDA committees • Discounted rates at WDA InSession - Wisconsin’s Largest Dental Study Club • Participation at WDA Legislative Day • Access to WDA Insurance Programs coverage and West Bend Mutual Insurance offerings that include life, disability, group health, homeowners’ and auto coverage • Special discounts with Whirlpool Corp., Land’s End and more • Networking opportunities
© 2013 Wisconsin Dental Association REV. 05-2013
The role primary teeth play in a child’s life is an important one. They are vital in terms of development and even for basic things, such as chewing, speech development and maintaining space in the mouth. Although baby teeth can arrive in any order, many children follow a pattern. The Wisconsin Dental Association created a new primary (baby) tooth development chart to further highlight the “Baby Teeth Matter” public awareness message. The chart lists when and at what approximate age specific upper or lower teeth erupt or are lost. WDA members can distribute to patients or direct them to visit to the “Baby Teeth Matter” page on WDA.org to download the chart.
WDA.org
August 2013
WDA Journal
9
Insurance N WDAIP announces name change: Transitioning to PIP Mara T. Roberts, CLU, RHU, REBC WDAIP President roberts@insuranceformembers.net
W
isconsin Dental Association Insurance Programs is proud to be the WDA’s for-profit subsidiary. We have taken great pride in providing insurance advice, solutions and resources to dental professionals for more than 30 years. The exclusive insurance programs and resources available to the dental community are second to none in the state. To assure that we are always acting in the best interest of membership, WDAIP is continually innovating to maximize member benefits and our support to the WDA. As markets change, the time is right to reposition ourselves for future expansion. WDAIP will adopt the name Professional Insurance Programs or PIP. WDAIP and PIP have been operating in tandem providing specialty insurance programs to various professional associations.
InsuranceUpdate
Unlimited tail coverage with PPP® Amanda Gorman WDAIP Account Representative agorman@insuranceformembers.net
Within our dental community, there are many dentists who carry claimsmade professional liability insurance.
Like WDAIP, PIP is also a for-profit subsidiary owned by the WDA. Both WDAIP and PIP are currently under the WDA Insurance and Services Corp. umbrella. PIP provides insurance advice, solutions and resources to members of professional associations, including the State Bar of Wisconsin, Wisconsin Institute of Certified Public Accountants and Greater Milwaukee Association of REALTORS®. A percent of revenues are returned to the WDA in the form of sponsorships and royalties to support its programs and services. PIP has established a reputable brand within the professional association marketplace. The transition of the WDAIP name will provide an opportunity for continued agency growth, consistent brand identity, streamlined agency operations and internal cost-savings which will ultimately increase revenues available to the WDA. Claims-made policies provide professional liability coverage for claims made and reported to the insurance company while the policy remains in force. This differs from an occurrence policy which provides coverage for claims that take place during a policy period, regardless of when the claim is reported. If you have a claims-made policy, an important item to look at with your current insurance carrier is how they handle issuing your Extended Reporting Period Endorsement. This is also known as tail coverage and it extends the time in which you can report a claim to the insurance company. All professional liability tail coverage through the Professional Protector Plan® is issued for an
To ensure the dental community has time to gain familiarity with our new name and logo, the transition will take place between June and December 2013. The new name and logo will be used exclusively beginning January 2014. Please note the level of service, knowledgeable staff and quality programs you are accustomed to will continue. This change is in name only. Our company has a proud history and our intention is to expand upon that tradition. We trust that you will join and support us in this endeavor. Please contact me directly with any questions or concerns at 414-755-4170 or mroberts@insuranceformembers.net. We look forward to our future as Professional Insurance Programs, and continuing our tradition of service to the Wisconsin dental community. Thank you for your continued support.
unlimited period. This means any covered dental claim for work provided during your coverage period can be reported to the carrier after the tail is issued at any time in the future. Additionally, if you are insured under the PPP for five years, are 55 years or older and are retiring from private practice, you will get your tail coverage issued to you for free. That is a huge savings as tails can cost you twice the amount of a typical yearly professional liability premium. If you have any questions about your current professional liability insurance or you are interested in a no-obligation quote, contact us at 800-242-9077 or at info@insuranceformembers.net.
Welcome new dentists! Amanda Gorman WDAIP Account Representative agorman@insuranceformembers.net
Welcome to the incoming class at Marquette University School of Dentistry. Congratulations on such a great accomplishment! As you embark on this next phase of your life, we hope to be a part of your learning experience. Our agency has a great relationship with MUSOD, and we visit the school frequently. You will see us at different events, including the mentor dinner and the vendor fair. We also present “Lunch and Learn” programs on a variety of topics. Feel free to stop any of us and ask questions about your insurance needs at these events. We can provide you with essential insurance coverage while you are in school, such as health, home/ renters’ and auto insurnace. As your needs grow as an individual and a professional, we can grow your insurance program with professional liability and disability income insurance coverage. It will be an exciting four years in school and we wish you the best of luck! Contact us with any questions at 800-242-9077 or info@insuranceformembers.net.
Affordable Care Act and your association group health insurance plan Programs/Professional Wisconsin Dental Association Insurance Insurance Programs
strives to keep our clients well-informed during these unprecedented times in preparing for health care reform. If you participate in the WDA’s group health plan and are asking yourself: • What should I be doing RIGHT NOW to prepare for health care reform? • What should I be telling my employees?
• How exactly will the Affordable Care Act affect my health insurance plan? Join us for an informational morning! Our agency staff and Jeremy Ott, agency manager from WPS Health Insurance will be on the road to help guide you through the maze of the ACA. Take the opportunity to learn what your options are and what you can expect from your association group health insurance plan going forward. Contact us at 414-277-7727 or info@insuranceformembers.net for more information.
Look for us in your town: Date Aug. 2 Aug. 9 Aug. 30 Sept. 6
WDA Journal
City Wausau
Time 9 a.m. - noon
Madison Appleton West Allis
9 a.m. - noon 9 a.m. - noon 9 a.m. - noon
Register today at www.insuranceformembers.com if you are enrolled in the WDA’s group health plan with WPS.
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Location Jefferson Street Inn WPS Campus, Nordby Building Radison Paper Valley Summit Place
You have questions – we have answers!
August 2013 WDA.org
News
for
D e n ta l P r o f e s s i o n a l s
www.insuranceformembers.com | info@insuranceformembers.net | 800-242-9077
Protecting your teen driver Carla Saltzman-Young WDAIP Account Representative cyoung@insuranceformembers.net
In 2013, West Bend Mutual Insurance will be the official insurance sponsor of the Road America Teen Driving School. Teens who enroll in the program will learn such skills as, skid prevention, collision avoidance maneuvers, car control fundamentals and proper vision skills. While this program is available to the general public, West Bend Mutual Insurance policyholders are eligible to participate at a discounted date. Teen drivers have the highest crash risk per mile traveled, compared with drivers in other age groups. The problem is worst among 16-year-olds whose driving experience is the most limited and whose immaturity often results in risk-taking. Visit roadamerica.com to learn more and view a list of driving school dates. Contact your WDAIP Account Representative at 414-277-7727, 800-242-9077 (toll-free) or info@insuranceformembers.net.
Aurora network now available in WDA group health insurance plan
Percent of fatal crashes by characteristic, 2010 Driver Age
16
17-19
20-49
Driver error
56
52
44
Speeding
36
33
25
Single vehicle
42
47
43
3+ occupants
28
24
17
Drivers killed with 0.08+BAC
11
26
45
Davina Golden WDAIP Benefits Division Manager dgolden@insuranceformembers.net
Risk management: It’s not as scary as you think Nancy Wuenne WDAIP Property and Casualty Division Manager nwuenne@insuranceformembers.net
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very business needs to be concerned with risk management. It is an important factor in operating a successful dental practice. It is often said that experience is our greatest teacher. With that lesson in mind, the individual and cumulative claim experiences of dentists offer lessons in managing the risks of dental practice. Many dental professionals believe a patient’s pursuit of a malpractice claim should only be permitted when the practitioner has made an error or omission that constitutes malpractice as judged through the eyes of the dental profession. However, through the civil justice system, malpractice allegations are pursued in accordance with the recognized principles of state tort law. Most often the motivation behind a patient’s
LEGAL Q&A I was served with a summons and complaint for a lawsuit indicating a written answer must be filed within 45 days. Are there any consequences if I fail to share these documents with my insurance company and respond after the deadline?
Q:
A: WDA.org
Yes! If an answer is received after the deadline, the court can enter a default judgment against you.
malpractice claim is money. Good communication is the foundation for good dentist-patient relationships. A patient who believes issues
Join us at the upcoming Wisconsin Dental Association Insurance Programs Risk Management Seminar scheduled for Friday, Sept. 13 at the Radisson Paper Valley Hotel and Conference Center in Appleton. may be discussed openly with a dentist and his or her staff will be less likely to pursue a malpractice claim in the event of a dispute or less-than-ideal outcome. The adage states, “People don’t sue people they like.” Join us at the upcoming Wisconsin
Dental Association Insurance Programs Risk Management Seminar scheduled for Friday, Sept. 13 at the Radisson Paper Valley Hotel and Conference Center in Appleton. You can also take the course online by visiting www.insuranceformembers. com. Don’t miss these opportunities to obtain comprehensive dental risk management information and continuing education credits. Take the necessary steps to reduce the risk of a patient injury, increase patient satisfaction and manage your liability exposure. Contact WDAIP at 414-277-7727, 800-242-9077 (toll-free) or info@insuranceformembers.net for more information. We are always happy to help you with the risk management of your dental practice.
Attorney W. Patrick Sullivan Siesennop & Sullivan Attorneys at Law www.siesennopsullivan.com
A default judgment is a ruling by the court in favor of the plaintiff on the issue of liability regardless of whether you have a meritorious defense. The only issue that can be argued to the court or a jury is the amount of damages that should be awarded to the plaintiff. This may also violate your duty to cooperate with your insurance company which can affect your insurance coverage.
It is possible to enlarge the time to file an answer beyond the statutory deadline or to vacate and reopen a default judgment. However, the standard is difficult to meet in Wisconsin and often times it depends on the particular judge assigned to your case. Therefore, it is critical to share a summons and complaint with your insurer as soon as possible.
As a member of the Wisconsin Dental Association, you have access to WDA Insurance Programs and the endorsed Association Group Health Insurance Plan through WPS. We have realized that, especially in certain areas, there was a need to expand the network to include Aurora Health Care facilities and doctors. Effective July 1, WPS is expanding their already robust statewide network to include Aurora facilities and doctors. If you are a member of the plan, the new addition is automatically included. If you are a WDA member and are not enrolled in this health plan, contact WDAIP today to review your options.
As an additional member benefit, keep in mind rates are guaranteed through Dec.1, 2014. Considering the current volatile health insurance market, it is time to take advantage of your member benefits! Your insurance experts at WDAIP are here for you. We look forward to discussing this exciting addition to your health plan and answering any questions. Contact WDAIP at 414-2777727, 800-242-9077 (toll-free) or info@insuranceformembers.net for more information.
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New chief dental officer named Dr. Jeffrey Chaffin (Madison) is the new chief dental officer in the Division of Public Health for the Wisconsin Department of Health Services. He started in the position May 6 after completing a 21-year career in the U.S. Army. Dr. Chaffin’s last assignment was serving as dental chief for the TRICARE Management Activity. He was responsible for oral health policy for the U.S. Department of Defense and managing three large dental insurance programs. He previously served as a dental consultant for the assistant secretary of defense for health affairs and for the Army’s surgeon general for dental public health. After receiving his bachelor’s from the University of Tampa in 1988, Dr. Chaffin went on to graduate from the University of Nebraska College of Dentistry. He holds a master’s in public health
from the University of Michigan, a master’s in business administration from the University of Texas at San Antonio and a master’s in health care administration from Baylor University. In 1993, Dr. Chaffin completed an advanced education in general dentistry residency at Fort Sill, Okla. He is board-certified by the American Board of Dental Public Health, and currently serves as the vice president. Early on in his military career, Dr. Chaffin enjoyed a robust general dentistry practice. After training in dental public health, his responsibilities were more related to prevention, program management and health policy. He served on the Army’s dental command staff and was responsible for oral health prevention and promotion for 170 dental clinics worldwide. He then served on the Department of the Army staff as
the public health dental officer for the Office of the Surgeon General. He spearheaded many initiatives aimed at maximizing the oral health of Army Soldiers. Dr. Chaffin is excited to be in Wisconsin and to “take the reins” of an outstanding State Oral Health Program. The goal will be to improve upon the excellent program Dr. Warren LeMay (Madison) and OHP staff have built. In January 2013, the Pew Center on the States published a report, “Falling Short, Most States Lag on Dental Sealants.” Wisconsin was one of five states receiving an “A” grade for the efforts to improve access to sealants for lowincome children. The Pew report is one
example of the efforts made to improve access to preventive services. The OHP’s focus will be to continue to promote and improve oral health for all Wisconsin residents. Priorities include: • Dental sealants for lowincome children - evidencebased method to reduce dental caries • Community water fluoridation - a preventive measure that is effective for all residents no matter age or income • Surveillance activities that allow Wisconsin to assess the oral health and health trends of our populations • Promote the increased need for access to dental care for the underserved of all ages
Fluoride myth vs. fact Myth: Fluoride is a byproduct from the phosphate fertilizer industry.
Fact: Fluoride used to fluoridate public water systems is extracted from natural deposits of phosphate rock. It’s a mineral. After fluoride is extracted that rock is later used to create fertilizers that will enrich soil. Opponents use this message a lot, maybe because they want to create the false impression that fluoride comes from fertilizer. Corn produces several useful byproducts, including corn oil, cornstarch and corn syrup. Fluoride is one example of many byproducts that help to improve the quality of life or health. Source: ilikemyteeth.org
PDMP update The state’s Department of Safety and Professional Services’ Prescription Drug Monitoring Program database is now available at http://1.usa. gov/15D7Bqg for all dentists wanting to verify if a patient is “shopping around” for “monitored prescription drugs” before writing a prescription. The PDMP database is available to all dentists. A basic question and answer brochure is available at http://1.usa. gov/11fntKR. The training manual on the site helps you set up an account and search for patient-specific data to prevent prescription drug misuse.
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August 2013 WDA.org
Member spotlight
Dental offices ‘blanket’ children with comfort Emily Bultman WDA Communications Coordinator ebultman@wda.org
A volunteer effort by local dental offices in Sheboygan earlier this year helped bring comfort to hundreds of kids in need. In honor of National Children’s Dental Health Month, dentists and their teams worked with Project Linus which creates, collects and donates handmade blankets to children in hospitals, homeless shelters and disaster areas. Throughout February 2013, a blanket drive was coordinated with dental offices, businesses and schools.
“Everyone at our office was involved in this project. We made flyers and posted them around our community. We made personal phone calls to encourage others to donate and spent an afternoon together making 40 blankets,” Dr. Igowsky said.
Drs. Andrea Igowsky (Sheboygan) and Jaime Marchi (Sheboygan) and their staff at Just Kids Dental heard about Project Linus from a patient that had received a handmade blanket while in the hospital. “We enjoy giving back to our commu-
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nity and wanted to partner with a charity that benefits children. After learning more about this program, we were immediately drawn in and felt emotionally connected to this organization,” Dr. Igowsky said. Nearly 400 Project Linus chapters across the United States, including the Sheboygan chapter, have a mission of donating blankets to provide love, a sense of security, warmth and comfort to children who are seriously ill, traumatized or otherwise in need. In 2012, Just Kids Dental and Just Orthodontics teamed up to start their “Snuggle with a Smile” blanket drive and collected more than 330 blankets. “Our goal this year was to surpass what we did last year, and fill the school bus movie theatre in our waiting room,” Dr. Igowsky said. Flyers for the blanket drive were posted around the community and sent to all dental offices in Sheboygan County. Several practices, including Bullard Children’s Dentistry, Dr, William Shows’ Orthodontics, Joseph & Joseph Dental, Just Orthodontics, Magestro Orthodontics, Midwest DentalSheboygan and Northstar Dental were “blanketeers” by donating handmade items.
Left: Dr. Andrea Igowsky sitting on top of the blankets her team collected in March 2013 for Project Linus.
More than 50 blankets were donated from Just Kids Dental patients. Local Girl Scouts troops and students in Riverview Middle School Student Council made and donated blankets. “Everyone at our office was involved in this project. We made flyers and posted them around our community. We made personal phone calls to encourage others to donate and spent an afternoon together making 40 blankets,” Dr. Igowsky said. Wisconsin Dental Association staff also made and donated 14 blankets to this worthy effort. Other business participants and sponsors included, My Sister’s Quilt Shoppe, Kohler Company, Pizza Ranch and Highland House. By the time they were done, more than 580 blankets of all different colors
Right: Sarah Schuh, who works at Just Orthodontics, and Dr. Igowsky hold a blanket counter sign.
and sizes were collected and the school bus was filled. “I have learned that the more enthusiastic you are about a project, the more others will see this and model after you. Positive attitudes, smiles, enthusiasm and generosity are all attributes that are contagious. A little bit goes a long way. And the more ‘little bits’ you collect, the bigger impact you can make,” Dr. Igowsky said. Just Kids Dental plans to continue participating in Project Linus, and hopes to collect even more blankets in 2014. Visit www.projectlinus.org for more information about Project Linus and to find a chapter in your area.
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Eight DEB disciplinary action cases reported Erika Valadez WDA Dental Practice and Government Relations Associate evaladez@wda.org
The Wisconsin Dental Association continues to print license disciplinary actions ordered by the Dentistry Examining Board. The WDA believes it is important for dentist and dental hygienist members to be aware of the types of issues and concerns that can lead to disciplinary actions. Even if a decision is reported, an appeal may be pending (which may stay the disciplinary action until the appeal is resolved). The state Department of Safety and Professional Services announced the following disciplinary orders against dentists from November 2012 to April 2013.
will only be considered by the DEB after proof of completion of a dental ethics course, a notarized affidavit prepared and signed by Dr. X attesting to and providing evidence indicating sufficient rehabilitation and all court costs are paid in full.
Case 5 Dr. X’s license was limited due to failing to cooperate in a timely manner with the board’s investigation of complaints against applicant, failing to complete 30 credits of CE related to the practice of dentistry and failure to maintain a written record of CE required for renewal of license for not less than six years. Dr. X must complete those 30 hours of CE including 3 hours of ethics and submit proof to the board within 20 days, and pay costs of $2,700.
Case 1 Dr. X was reprimanded for routinely delegating the placement of composite restorations to an unlicensed dental assistant. Placement of dental restorations cannot be delegated to an unlicensed person, because it is a procedure which may cause damage to a patient’s teeth or oral cavity which cannot be remedied without professional intervention. Dr. X was ordered to complete six hours of continuing education in dental risk management and pay $400. Case 2 Dr. X’s license was revoked for two years due to Conclusions of Law showing numerous billing irregularities by means of instructing employees to change billing dates to obtain insurance payments, and false representation on an application for license to practice dentistry in California. Dr. X cannot petition for reinstatement for two years, and after that the petition
Case 4 Dr. X was reprimanded for failed miniimplants on a patient whose case was incompatible for treatment causing patient suffering. Dr. X was ordered to complete within six months, eight hours of CE in treatment planning for dental implants and four hours in case selection for dental implants and to pay $1,300.
Case 3 Dr. X’s license was suspended for an indefinite period due to suspension terms and conditions not being met. The DEB may consider reinstatement with proof of compliance with the order.
Case 6 The DEB denied the request for removal of the limitation that prohibits Dr. X from prescribing schedule III, IV and V controlled substances pursuant to the final decision and order from Sept. 1, 2010. This was due to Dr. X’s insufficient compliance with the terms of the order. Case 7 Dr. X was reprimanded for unprofessional conduct regarding deficiencies in the treatment of a failed root canal and fixed bridge causing patient suffering. Dr. X was ordered to complete three hours of CE in crowns and bridges, three
hours of CE in treatment planning and to pay costs of $450. Case 8 Dr. X was reprimanded and his/her license limited for use of conscious sedation on patients due to not fully appreciating potential effects of changes in a patient’s diabetic blood sugar levels, lack of recent food intake and large physical size. Emergency medical services were called to assist since the patient was non-responsive and transported his/her to the hospital where the patient recovered. EMS referred Dr. X to state Division of Legal Services and Compliance for questionable protocol with the use of conscious sedation. Dr. X may only practice conscious sedation on patients who meet criteria of class one in the American Society of Anesthesiologists’ physical status classification system. Dr. X also must obtain a professional mentor to report all conscious sedation practices, and have at least 5 to 25 percent evaluated and reported by the mentor. This limitation cannot be petitioned until November 2017 and Dr. X must pay $2,300. The DEB granted full reinstatement of licenses for two dentists who completed and fulfilled their orders. Additional cases will be printed in future WDA Journals. To view the complete summaries, visit http://1.usa.gov/VhFQAw.
CASE STUDY #146
Q&A presented by Ezedin M. Sadeghi, DDS, MS, MUSOD Associate Professor and Oral Pathology Director ezedin.sadeghi@marquette.edu
A 62-year-old male was referred to a clinic for the diagnosis and treatment of an irregularly-shaped, papillary and exophytic lesion of his right buccal mucosa (Figure #1). The lesion was asymptomatic and has shown gradual increase in size. The patient was otherwise healthy.
FIGURE #1
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Questions: 1- What would your differential diagnosis be? A. Papilloma B. Verrucous carcinoma C. Verruciform xanthoma D. Condyloma acuminatum E. All of the above 2- What would you do to make a definitive diagnosis? A. Incisional biopsy B. Brush biopsy C. Needle biopsy D. Excisional biopsy E. Microbiological study
Answers on page 19
August 2013 WDA.org
Dental offices targeted by ‘Yellow Pages’ scams
Practice management program launching in fall
It has come to the Wisconsin Dental Association’s attention that some of our members have been targets of a “Yellow Pages” scam. Dental offices throughout the state are receiving fraudulent invoices from various companies for online advertising. This scam continues to gain steam despite numerous investigations and enforcement actions taken by the Federal Trade Commission. The Wisconsin Better Business Bureau offers the following tips: • Look over each bill closely before paying it. If you have a question about the legitimacy of your bill, contact your Yellow Pages representative. • Channel all invoices through one department and make sure they are cleared with the appropriate executives before being paid. • Bogus invoices are sometimes marked with the notice “This is Not a Bill”. They may also lack a phone number. • Check the BBB Business Review on
The American Dental Association Center for Professional Success, a webbased member resource launching this fall, will feature the University of Florida College of Dentistry Executive Practice Management Certificate Program for Dentists intended to help them increase their executive-level practice management skills. Applications for the University of Florida fall program will be accepted through Sept. 2, 2013. This program will be tied to the Center for Professional Success, which provides support to dentists so they can succeed and excel throughout their careers. The university program is one of several opportunities for member dentists to expand their knowledge through online and in-person dental practice business certificate programs. The comprehensive, 13-month program begins in October with one weekend
WDA.org
any business that has contacted you before signing anything or giving out any payments or information. • Visit wisconsin.bbb.org to familiarize yourself with this scam and alert your team to the issue. If you believe you have received a call, fax or mailing from a bogus “Yellow Pages” entity, report it to the BBB.
learning module per month in Orlando. Approximately 15-25 dentists will receive hands-on customized training, as well as a supplemental online course. Module topics will cover finance, practice operations, compliance, human resources and sales and marketing. The course will also include how to become an associate and build a practice, plus manage wealth accumulation and debt reduction. The University of Florida is an ADA Continuing Education Recognition Program-recognized provider, so students can earn up to 186 hours of CE credit. Those who are accepted must be actively practicing, licensed dentists, newly graduated dentists or graduating dentists. ADA members will receive a $500 discount toward the $16,787 tuition. For more information, visit epmfordentists.com.
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Classifieds Practice for Sale/Lease
Edge Advisors has 15 and counting dental practices for sale! Want to sell your real estate with the practice? Contact Jessica at Jessica@EdgeAdvise.com or call 715-3791796 to find out about how to sell both at the lowest price in the industry. #11-201209 Western U.P. practice, near Wisconsin border, will gross buyer over $300,000 the first year, after debt service. Contact Mark Breit, Paragon Dental Transitions, 906-2509666 or mbreit@paragon.us.com. #04-201305
Properties/Office Space Available Milwaukee-Northshore: Seeking dentist to share office space. Two operatories, laboratory, private office and staff lounge available. Secure modern building with ample parking. Respond to beh5151@gmail. com. #08-2013-02 Madison - Dental condo unit for sale or lease. 3 operatories, front office, private office, sterilization area. Ideal for a new startup. In a well-established dental building (with an orthodontist) in a desirable east Madison neighborhood. Contact madisonwisconsindentist@gmail.com or call 608-217-1727. #02-2013-09 General dentist seeking a practioners, preferably with own patient base, to share office space. Ideally suited for general dentist, prosthodontist, periodontist or orthodontist. Four operatories and laboratory available. Respond to Wisconsin Dental Association, Blind Box 0403, 6737 W. Washington St., Ste. 2360, West Allis, WI 53214. #04-2013-03
Dentist Available/ Position Wanted A dentist is available with advanced skills and ability to work in high-pace environment. Willing to come in another office once a week or once a month with instruments for extractions, perio, laser or mini-implant procedures. Contact gorodesky@sbcglobal.net or 414-364-3004. #06-2013-06 Dentist with five years of experience seeking Madison area associate position with potential for partnership or ownership. Please reply to madisondentistavailable@ gmail.com. #05-2013-02
Dentist seeking associate position (with buy-in potential) or practice to purchase on Madison’s west side or surrounding suburbs. Respond to Wisconsin Dental Association, Blind Box 0301, 6737 W. Washington St., Ste. 2360, West Allis, WI 53214 #03-201301
Associate Position - Looking for a motivated PT or FT General Dentist to join our growing practice in Greenfield. 2 years experience with molar endo and extractions preferred. Please fax resume to 414-327-7551. #072013-11
Practice Wanted Superior #WI500 – Madison Area Practice Wanted – Buyer interested in acquiring a satellite practice with owner willing to stay as associate. Are you looking to slow down and let someone else deal with the business management of your practice? You just want to treat patients and leave without a worry of the day-to-day management of the practice? This may be the perfect time to transition your practice! Call Deanna Wright at Henry Schein Professional Practice Transitions at 800-730-8883 or email Deanna.Wright@ henryschein.com for more information on how we can help. #02-2013-15
Practice Position Opportunity Beloit/Janesville Associate Dentist Wanted – Partners in Care, LLC, which currently has 4 office locations, is looking to expand and purchase 3 additional offices in 2013, in Southeastern Wisconsin. We currently have 3 offices in Illinois located in Elmhurst, Bloomingdale and St. Charles, and one office in Wisconsin located in Lake Geneva. If you visit our website, www.chicagolanddentists. com, you will be able to view our wonderful offices. We currently employ 12 General dentists, and offer the services of two oral surgeons, an endodontist, a periodontist and an orthodontist. We take great pride in our excellent reputation and longstanding commitment to our patients. Our first office, Elmhurst Dental, has been serving the Elmhurst Community for 40 years. We are currently looking to purchase practices in Janesville and Beloit, Wisconsin and are looking for Associate General Dentists with at least 3 years experience for these practices. We offer excellent benefits and a minimum pay guarantee to start. If interested, please forward resume/CV to marybeth@ chicagolanddentists.com. #06-2013-03 Associate Dentist – State of the Art Dental Facility located in Wauwatosa, WI has an opportunity for an experienced dentist to join our dedicated staff. Full-time with benefit package or part-time available. No evenings or weekends. Respond to Wisconsin Dental Association, Blind Box 0510, 6737 W. Washington St., Ste. 2360, West Allis, WI 53214.#05-2013-10
Midwest Dental is seeking candidates for a full-time practice opportunity in Superior, Wisconsin. Since 1968, our philosophy of supporting doctors and staff has lead to unmatched consistency and paved the way for future growth. We pride ourselves on providing doctors the ability to practice in a traditional, non-HMO practice environment coupled with the flexibility and rewards that a group can offer. We’d enjoy the opportunity to learn about your practice philosophy, career goals and expectations. To learn more, please contact Andrew Lockie at 715579-4076 or e-mailalockie@midwestdental.com. Visit us online at www. midwest-dental.com. #07-2013-05 Associate Dentist – State of the Art Dental Facility located in Wauwatosa, WI has an opportunity for an experienced dentist to join our dedicated staff. Full-time with benefit package or part-time available. No evenings or weekends. Respond to Wisconsin Dental Association, Blind Box 0510, 6737 W. Washington St., Ste. 2360, West Allis, WI 53214.#05-2013-10
Andy Lehmkuhl and your local team at Edge Advisors have transitioned 30 practices in the past two years. We charge less and get the best results in the industry. Need help hiring an associate? Currently we have more than 14 available. See what your colleagues are talking about at www.EdgeAdvise.com. Contact 414-255-5669 or Andy@EdgeAdvise.com. #11-2012-10 FULL-TIME DENTIST POSITION: Heartland Dental Care is seeking affiliate opportunities for a General Dentist in the central Wisconsin area. We offer excellent compensation and benefits package as well as continuing educational opportunities, as well as a sign on bonus and relocation package. If you’re an outgoing, positive Dentist looking for career satisfaction and continuing education opportunities, join the HDC family. For more information on affiliate opportunities in central Wisconsin, call 866-903-6426 or email MRJansen@heartlanddentalcare.com. #07-2013-02
Greater Madison Area Midwest Dental is seeking candidates for a practice opportunity in the greater Madison area. Our philosophy of preserving and supporting the traditional private practice setting provides a great work-life balance, excellent compensation and benefits, and unlimited opportunity for professional growth. Our comprehensive support team provides you the freedom to focus on your patients, your skills and lead your team. If you possess a passion for providing full-service quality dental care and are in search of a rewarding practice opportunity, we’d enjoy the opportunity to learn about your practice philosophy, career goals and expectations. For more information and practice specifics, please contact Laura Anderson Laehn by phone at 715-225-9126 or email atlanderson@midwest-dental.com. You may also visit us online at www.midwestdental.com. #06-2013-01 DNT Inc. seeks a General Dentist for its Mitchell St. Office. Must have a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from a accredited University and license to practice dentistry in the state of Wisconsin. Interested candidates should send/email resume directly to; Mr. Don Lee, DNT Inc., 710 West Historic Mitchell Street, Milwaukee, WI 53204 or dldntdental@yahoo.com. #072013-04 Appleton, WI – Associate position available for 2 Dr. practice looking to add a 3rd Dr. 3,000 patient base. Sign-on bonus and no non-compete initially. Buy-in option available. Please call 920-225-0123. #022013-14. Associate opportunity in busy Fox Valley general dental practice with equal partnership potential. Apply in confidence to HMC1350@gmail.com. #07-2013-03
ForwardDental is in search of exceptional Dentists to join our busy Wisconsin practices. Positions offer competitive compensation, enhanced benefits and the opportunity for ownership! Contact Kelly at kfredrick@amdpi.com. #10-2011-05 Position available. Associate wanted in Eau Claire – Two Doctor general dental practice seeking associate to partnership candidate. Excellent salary guarantee/benefits. Reply in confidence to lgworknow@gmail.com. #072013-07
Classified Advertisements The rate for classified advertisements for Wisconsin Dental Association members is $65 for 30 words or less; additional words 50 cents each. Nonmember rate is $90 for 30 words or less; additional are 50 cents each. Make your ad stand out by adding a company logo for $30 per month or add a blind box for confidentiality for $10 per month. Boxed classified ads also are available in three sizes: one inch = $100; two inch = $150; or three inch = $200. Make your ad stand out with a full color, mini-display. Save 10 percent when you run a display ad for three months or more. Mini-display classified ads now available in three sizes: two inches = $225; or three inches = $275; or four inches = $325. Artwork can be created for you at an additional charge: $75 for initial mini-display creation $50 per hour for edits after initial run (one hour minimum will be charged). Visit WDA.org to view rate sheet and download classified contract.
Cancellation of ads must be received in writing. Please note all ads must be pre-paid. Please include payment (check or credit card number) with your classified ad when submitting. You can download the contract online at WDA.org or call 414-755-4110. To place an ad, mail, fax or email ebultman@wda.org copy to the Wisconsin Dental Association, Attn: Emily Bultman, 6737 W. Washington St., Ste. 2360, West Allis, WI 53214; fax to 414-755-4111. Classified ads submitted after the deadline can be posted on the last business day of the month as a web only ad at the standard rate. It is against WDA policy to do unauthorized mailings pertaining to individual classified advertisements. When responding to a Blind Box, please indicate the blind box number on the envelope. When they are received by the WDA office, they are forwarded unopened to the address of the person holding the blind box. Sample: Wisconsin Dental Association, Blind Box #10, 6737 W. Washington St., Ste. 2360, West Allis, WI 53214.
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August 2013 WDA.org
To
place a display or
classified ad , please contact
E mily B ultman at ebultman @WDA. org .
Temporary/Flexible/Dynamic Opportunities Do you have a passion for patient care? Do you enjoy new challenges and desire a flexible work environment? Our team is looking for doctors who are interested in covering maternity leaves, military leaves and extended vacations in our fee-for-service practices. If you’ve ever considered the benefits of temporary coverage, give us a call. With us, you can work as much or as little as desired. Midwest Dental has practices in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Illinois, Kansas and Missouri. Mountain Dental has practices in Colorado and New Mexico. Merit Dental has practices in Pennsylvania, Michigan and Ohio. To learn more, please contact Laura Anderson Laehn at 715-225-9126 or landerson@midwest-dental.com. Visit us online at www.midwest-dental. com www.mountain-dental.com www.mymeritdental.com. #06-2010-1 Dental Dreams desires motivated, quality oriented associate dentists for its offices in IL (Chicago & suburbs), DC, LA, MI, MA, MD, NM, PA, SC, TX and VA. We provide quality general FAMILY dentistry in a technologically advanced setting. Our valued dentists earn on average $230,000/yr plus benefits. New graduates encouraged! Call 312-274-4524 or email dtharp@kosservices. com. #03-2013-05
La Crosse Midwest Dental is seeking candidates for the La Crosse, Wisconsin area. Since 1968, our philosophy of supporting doctors and staff has lead to unmatched consistency and paved the way for future growth. We pride ourselves on providing doctors the ability to practice in a traditional, non-HMO practice environment coupled with the flexibility and rewards that a group can offer. We are currently working on new opportunities in La Crosse. We’d enjoy the opportunity to learn about your practice philosophy, career goals and expectations. To learn more, please contact Andrew Lockie at 715-579-4076 or email alockie@ midwest-dental.com. Visit us online at www.midwest-dental.com. #07-2013-11 Green Bay – I am in need of an associate to perform all phases of general dentistry in a well-established practice in Green Bay. This will quickly lead to a full-time position. Buyin/buy-out is available and will be discussed and decided prior to employment. Contact Dr. Stephen A. Sevenich at 1551 Park Place Suite 300, Green Bay, WI 54304 or 920-7377619. #03-2013-03 Grow and Prosper In A Welcoming Community. Searching for an Associate dentist who ideally would become a partner. Our area in Northeast WI is known for quality of life, great outdoor recreation and low cost of living. Great place to raise a family and close enough to larger cities to have the best of both worlds. We are a busy, progressive, fee-for-service general practice and offer a modern facility with an excellent & committed staff. Competitive compensation with the potential for much greater financial and professional success. Contact Us and Explore the Possibilities. Please submit CV/ resume to:familydentistry@newbc.rr.com #07-2013-08
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Associate Dentist-Pediatric office Seeking Pediatric dentist for an associate position for two busy offices in western Wisconsin. Both offices are located within 20 minutes from the twin cities. Great package benefits available. For more information or to send a resume please send tohrpedo@gmail.com.#08-201303 Wisconsin - Milwaukee (Western Suburb) Seeking a pediatric dentist for a full-time or part-time associate position. We offer a great benefit package and compensation. Be part of our understanding team in providing pediatric dental care. Please email your curriculum vitae to careers@smallworlddds.com. #08-2013-05
Wausau and Merrill Practice Opportunities Midwest Dental is seeking a full time dentist in our Wausau and Merrill practices. We offer the opportunity to lead your own clinical team without the administrative and financial burdens.Our philosophy of preserving and supporting the traditional private practice setting provides a great work-life balance, excellent compensation and benefits, and unlimited opportunity for professional development. If you possess a passion for providing quality care and are looking for a rewarding practice opportunity in the Wausau or Merrill areas, please contact us at 715-926-5050 or email development@ midwest-dental.com. Visit us online at www.midwest-dental.com. #07-2013-10 Outstanding Opportunity: Partners in Care is seeking a part-time general dentist, 3 and a half days per week, for our new Southeastern Wisconsin location. We offer excellent benefits and a minimum pay guarantee to start. We are looking for candidates with at least two full years of experience to be a part of our dedicated team of professionals. Visit our website at: www.chicagolanddentists.com to see our other four locations. Email Resume/CV to marybeth@chicagolanddentists.com. #042012-11
University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, we are a not-for-profit organization dedicated to helping improve the quality of health care for the people of Wisconsin. For information, call Marsha Siik at 800-385-0005, email siik@wisc.edu, or fax CV to 608-261-1893. #03-2013-06
MORE REASONS TO SMILE! We’ve always believed in putting patients first. In fact, Dental Associates was built on the notion that everyone deserves access to affordable dental care of the highest caliber. From a small solo practice that launched more than 35 years ago, Dental Associates has grown to 10 multispecialty dental centers. We’re proud to bring quality, progressive treatment to communities across with the day-to-day business tasks. Put all your focus back on your patients and you will enjoy more of those rewarding moments! We’d love to have you join us. Visit our website at dentalassociates.com, call or send resume/CV in confidence to: sbullen@dentalassociates.com or Dental Associates Attn: Susan Bullen, 11711 W. Burleigh St., Wauwatosa, WI 53222, 800315-71107, 414-456-9911(fax). #02-201302 Are you happy in your current office? Before you make a move or accept another offer, be sure to check us out! Our dental practice, located in Southern Wisconsin, is looking for a long term associate to join our steadily growing practice and community. We service all aspects of general dentistry, including implant placement and restoration. Come and be a part of our fun, talented and enthusiastic team! We are offering a top base salary, production bonus program, and a generous benefits package. Please submit CV/resume to: dentaldr@gmail. com. #03-2013-04 Wisco Dental is currently searching for an experienced orthodontist to join our practice in Appleton, Wisconsin. Our practice is brand new with state of the art technology and guarantee referrals. To learn more about this orthodontic practice opportunity please email reply to abbs913@gmail.com. #08-2013-06
FULL OR PART-TIME GENERAL DENTIST – JUNEAU COUNTY, WI Karas Dental of Elroy and Necedah is seeking an ambitious general dentist to join our practice. This opportunity offers competitive compensation, outstanding benefits and potential partnership. Contact Amy Karas at 608-479-1273. #08-2013-06
RLJ Dental is seeking a full-time general dentist for our Plymouth and Fox Valley area offices. Our offices offer a family oriented dental atmosphere with state of the art dental technology. RLJ Dental offers an excellent compensation and benefits package. We are looking for energetic people for our growing practices. Please email reply to abbs913@gmail. com. #08-2013-07
Office Equipment for Sale Antique dental cabinet – Mahogany, dark green marble, beveled mirror and glass. Purchased used in 1947, probably fabricated in the 1920s. 22 drawers, 5 doors. 62”H x 30”Wx14”D. Beautifully restored. $2,450. Contact drmarcblum@gmail.com or 920-3797521. #05-2013-03
Miscellaneous
Mike Bark – The ONLY accredited “Institute of Dental CPA’s” certified Wisconsin CPA/ Accountant and best valued. Give us a call and let’s talk about how we can help you improve your situation. Contact 414-759-9629 or Mike@EdgeAdvise.com. #11-2012-11
Periodontist – Sheboygan Midwest Dental is seeking a full time Periodontist to join a long standing, feefor-service practice in our Sheboygan Specialties office. We offer the opportunity to lead your own clinical team while shedding the administrative and financial burdens. Our philosophy of preserving and supporting the traditional private practice setting provides a great work-life balance, excellent compensation and benefits, and unlimited opportunity for professional growth. If you possess a passion for providing quality care and are looking for a rewarding practice opportunity, call Andrew Lockie at 715-579-4076 or e-mail alockie@midwest-dental.com. Visit our website at www.midwest-dental.com. #082013-01 Opportunities Available - Wisconsin. The Wisconsin Office of Rural Health has detailed information on general and specialty dentist positions in both smaller towns and larger cities located throughout Wisconsin. Most of these positions qualify for the $50,000 loan repayment program from the State of Wisconsin. The Wisconsin Office of Rural Health has recently added a Dentist Placement Program to our successful Physician Placement Program. Located at the
La Crosse Midwest Dental is seeking candidates for the La Crosse, Wisconsin area. Since 1968, our philosophy of supporting doctors and staff has lead to unmatched consistency and paved the way for future growth. We pride ourselves on providing doctors the ability to practice in a traditional, nonHMO practice environment coupled with the flexibility and rewards that a group can offer. We are currently working on new opportunities in La Crosse. We’d enjoy the opportunity to learn about your practice philosophy, career goals and expectations. To learn more, please contact Andrew Lockie at 715-579-4076 or e-mail alockie@midwest-dental.com. Visit us online at www.midwest-dental. com. #07-2013-11
Advertising Index
Thank you for supporting the WDA Journal! AFTCO................................................ 12 www.aftco.net Delta Dental......................................... 20 www.deltadentalwi.com Edge Advisors ..................................... 15 www.edgeadvise.com Keller.. ................................................. 14 www.kellerbuilds.com Midwest Dental..................................... 12 www.midwest-dental.com Paragon. . ............................................. 18 www.paragon.us.com West Bend Mutual Insurance Co. . . ........... 19 www.thesilverlining.com
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Calendar
Reminder!
*Shaded events offer continuing education credits.
Summer Hours WDA Executive and Legislative offices will be open Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and on Fridays from 8 a.m. to noon from May 28 through Aug. 31.
AUGUST
16 “OSHA and Infection Control Update” Dr. Katherine Schrubbe 3 CE credits Visit www.marquette.edu/dentsitry for more information
SEPTEMBER
2 WDA offices closed for Labor Day 4 Dentistry Examining Board 8:30 a.m. Department of Safety and Professional Services 1400 E. Washington Ave., Rm 121A Madison 6 “The Christensen Bottom Line” Gordon Christensen, DDS, MSD, Ph.D. Presented by MUSOD and Lord’s Dental 6 CE credits Visit www.marquette.edu/dentsitry for more information 9 Wisconsin State Dental Golf Tournament North Hills Country Club Menomonee Falls Visit WDA.org for more information 13 WDA Insurance Programs Risk Management Seminar Radisson Inn Paper Valley Appleton Visit www.insuranceformembers.com for more information
License renewal deadline for Wisconsin dentists and dental hygienists is Sept. 30, 2013. Visit www.dsps.wi.gov for more information.
“Photo Documentation: Simplifying Photography and Case Presentation” Dennis Braunston, BS 3 CE credits Visit www.marquette.edu/dentsitry for more information 14 & 28 “Restoring Implants! What Do I Need to Know?” Harshit Aggarwal, DDS 15 CE credits Visit www.marquette.edu/dentistry for more information 18 Wisconsin Oral Health Coalition 2013 Annual Meeting 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Holiday Inn & Conference Center Stevens Point WDA members contact evaladez@wda.org to register 20 “Oral Cancer: What Happens to Your Patients After You Make the Diagnosis” Denis Lynch, DDS, Ph.D.; Michelle Michael, M.D.; Bruce Campbell, M.D.; Becky Massey, M.D.; Christopher Schultz, M.D.; Stuart Wong, M.D.; and Amir Sifi, DDS, Ph.D. 6 CE credits Visit www.marquette.edu/dentsitry for more information 25-26 ADA 9th District Pre-Caucus Grand Rapids, Mich. 27-28 WDA Board of Trustees meeting Crowne Plaza • Wauwatosa 30 Renewal deadline for Wisconsin dental and dental hygiene licenses Visit www.dsps.wi.gov for more information.
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OCTOBER
1 “Airway Management” Mr. Richard Mason 2 CE credits Visit www.marquette.edu/dentistry for more information 2 “Advanced Cardiac Life Support Certification” Mr. Richard Mason 8 CE credits Visit www.marquette.edu/dentistry for more information 3 “Advanced Cardiac Life Support Recertification” Mr. Richard Mason 5 CE credits Visit www.marquette.edu/dentistry for more information 4-5 Wisconsin Dental Hygienists’ Association Indigo Conference Kalahari Resort and Convention Center, Wisconsin Dells Visit wi-dha.com for more information 18 “Clinical Dental Update 2013” 6 CE credits Visit www.marquette.edu/dentistry for more information 31 ADA Annual Session New Orleans Visit ADA.org/session for more information
NOVEMBER
1-3 ADA Annual Session New Orleans Visit ADA.org/session for more information 3 ADA Mission of Mercy New Orleans Visit ADA.org/session to sign up to volunteer 10 Dentistry Examining Board 8:30 a.m. Department of Safety and Professional Services 1400 E. Washington Ave., Rm 121A Madison 13 “Shade Matching Solution” Aaron Cho 3 CE credits Visit www.marquette.edu/dentistry for more information 15 Component Officers’ Breakfast & Open Forum Marriott House of Delegates Middleton Visit WDA.org for more information 15-16 WDA House of Delegates Marriott House of Delegates Middleton Visit WDA.org for more information ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Do you have an event you’d like to include in the WDA Journal Calendar of Events? If so, please call WDA Managing Editor Emily Bultman at 414-755-4110 or 800364-7646; fax to 414-755-4111 or email to ebultman@wda.org.
Join us in the conversation...
...together we can have a stronger voice.
The WDA Journal is published monthly by the Wisconsin Dental Association (USPS 0285-460), 6737 W. Washington St., Ste. 2360, West Allis, WI 53214. Phone 414-276-4520. Yearly subscriptions are $20 for WDA members; $100 for nonmembers; $25 for associate members; $30 for dental school students; $45 for dental schools and agencies and $125 for foreign mailings. Periodicals postage paid at Milwaukee, Wis. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to WDA Journal, 6737 W. Washington St., Ste. 2360, West Allis, WI 53214. The Wisconsin Dental Association reserves the right to illustrate and/or edit all reader contributions. Views expressed in the WDA Journal are not necessarily those of the WDA. All advertising in the WDA Journal must comply with the advertising standards of the WDA. The publication of an advertisement is not to be construed as an endorsement for approval by the WDA or any of its subsidiaries unless the advertisement specifically includes information that such approval or endorsement has been granted. The deadline for all display advertisements is the second Tuesday of the month, two months before advertisement insertion (For example, if you want your ad to appear in the October 2013 WDA Journal, which is mailed to members in mid-September 2013, all advertising materials must arrive in the WDA Executive Office by the second Tuesday of August 2013.) Advertising space is limited, so advertisers are encouraged to reserve space early. Back issues of the journal are available for six months following publication or while supplies last. Communications and copy for publication should be addressed to Dr. Robert Brennan, editor, and may be mailed to the WDA at 6737 W. Washington St., Ste. 2360, West Allis, WI 53214; faxed to 414-755-4111 or emailed to ebultman@wda.org. Portions of the WDA Journal can also be found on the WDA Web page, WDA.org.
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New Product/
Service Corner Now is the time to refine your dental scrap Scientific Metals provides a wide variety of precious metal refining services primarily for dentists and dental labs. We offer: • Highest dollar return
• Fast payment • Flexible payment methods • Reputable and endorsed • Free shipping Our costs have lowered by eliminating our biggest cost input- reps. It’s only logical that if our costs go down, then so do yours. And with lower costs come higher scrap returns. Dentists and dental labs can refine materials containing gold, platinum, palladium and silver. Once we receive your material, it can take up to 10 business days to process your scrap. The average market price (taken
from the “Second London Fix”) is used from the day we receive your material to the day we contact you. You can then choose to receive your payment with a check or gold/ silver coins or a combination.
To learn more or schedule a pickup, visit www.scientificmetals.com or call 888-949-0008 (toll-free).
In Memoriam The Wisconsin Dental Associa-
tion extends its condolences to the families and friends of the following dentists who have passed away: Dr. Paul E. Lanzer Jr. Bloomer, Wis. Passed away May 10 Member for 40 years Help us keep our information current. If you are aware of a colleague who has passed away, please call the WDA at 800-364-7646.
Q&A
Case study continued from page 14
A:
1) e 2) a
Final Diagnosis: Verrucous carcinoma
Discussion Verrucous carcinoma accounts for 5-7 percent of all intraoral squamous cell carcinomas. Early lesions may be mistaken with benign papillary lesions like papilloma, or verrucous leukoplakic hyperplasia. This lesion is not as aggressive and infiltrative as other forms of squamous cell carcinoma and only pushes into surrounding tissue particularly in early phase of its development. If it is untreated, the lesion has a tendency to invade into the underlying bone and destroy it gradually. The histological features of this tumor might be deceptive and significant cellular atypia might be absent particularly in the superficial region of the lesion. Buccal mucosa and gingival tissue are the most common sites for the development of this lesion in mostly, males age 50 and up. Surgery is treatment of choice in most cases of verrucous carcinoma and radiation therapy might be added in advanced cases. This tumor is locally aggressive and rarely metastasizes. Acknowledgement: This case was contributed by Dr. Mark Berger (Milwaukee).
Ezedin M. Sadeghi, DDS, MS Oral & Maxillofacial Pathologist Associate Professor, Marquette University School of Dentistry Referral and Consultation: 414-288-6559. Biopsy Service: 414805-8440. WDA.org
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New requirements for emergency dental MA billing Erika Valadez WDA Dental Practice and Government Relations Associate evaladez@wda.org
Previously, a dentist did not need to be a Medicaid-certified provider to treat MA patients on an emergency basis and be reimbursed by the state (ForwardHealth) for those services. However, some new requirements are in place with ForwardHealth’s implementation of the Affordable Care Act. Effective Aug. 9, 2013, all dentists who treat MA patients, even if just on an emergency basis, must be enrolled as a MA provider. Dentists who do not wish to take all MA patients into their practice will then have the option of applying for limited MA enrollment as in-state emergency providers. Other new requirements include: Limited MA enrollment - Dentists are enrolled for a single date of service (the date in which the emergency ser-
vice is provided) only. For treatment of other emergency MA patients, one would need to re-enroll. Full MA enrollment - Dentists will be able to provide services to all MA patients, but can choose to only provide for emergency needs. They also may be excluded from the MA dental provider list by contacting Provider Services. Remember, if enrolling as full MA provider, you cannot charge other nonemergency MA patients your full fee and have them pay cash for services that are covered. You are required to bill MA for every MA patient you see. Also starting Aug. 9, providers no longer are required to use the Urgent Care Dental In-State Emergency Provider Data Sheet. Instead, providers must submit the
American Dental Association 2012 claim form, emergency claims must be indicated as such in Element 35 of the form. Additional enrollment requirements due to ACA: Dentists are required to submit personal data info for persons with an ownership or controlling interest, managing employees and agents. All info is submitted via the portal and is protected under Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. Visit http://1.usa.gov/18J6fOV to learn more about these new requirements. You can sign up to be a provider on the ForwardHealth Portal at forwardhealth.wi.gov.
Donors make MOM possible! We are sincerely grateful to partners, sponsors and supporters for their gracious financial and/or in-kind support of this year’s event. Those with a “5” after their name have been a part of all WDA MOM programs from 2009 through 2013. Visit WDA.org for a complete listing of MOM donors.
Partners
Delta Dental of Wisconsin Charitable Fund (5) Henry Schein Dental (5) Patterson Dental Walmart Foundation Walworth County
Friends
Dentsply Prosthetics Tellier Foundation
Sponsors
BP Products North America, Inc. and Rote Oil
Supporters
Badger High School Brown Door Kewaunee Dental Society D & S Dental Delta Dental of Wisconsin Dental Health Products, Inc. DentaQuest Richard H. Driehaus and Richard H. Driehaus Estate Kwik Trip (5) St. Benedict Congregation Valley Expo & Displays (5)
MOM 2013 by the numbers 1,224
volunteers, including 228 dentists
1,977
patient visits
$1.18
million in donated care
1,846
extractions
1,450
fillings
823 sealant/fluoride treatments 719 cleanings 100
partial dentures
32
root canals
Watch for a recap article on this year’s Wisconsin Dental Association and WDA Foundation MOM event in Walworth County in the September 2013 WDA Journal.
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