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Washington’S Ride Program: A Model Providing Rural Practitioners, Mary K. Smith Dds, Mba

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The University of Washington School of Dentistry Regional Initiatives in Dental Education (RIDE) program is an award-winning dental education model that trains dentists to practice in rural and underserved areas. Its first cohort of students graduated in 2012. To date, there have been 96 graduates. More than 80% of RIDE graduates in practice are in rural and underserved areas, including those seeking specialty training. RIDE is successful because it collaborates with multiple universities, community health centers, local dental associations, and community leaders in the area where the students are located.

J Mich Dent Assoc March 2024

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Every month, The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association provides news, information, and features about Michigan dentistry to our state's oral health community and the MDA's 6,200+ members. It stands as the primary publication reaching Michigan dentists.

In the March 2024 issue, the Journal focuses on the landscape of practicing in rural settings. Original content includes:

• A cover story discussing "Market Realities for Rural and Small-Town Practices"

• A feature commentary from a new dentist in the Upper Peninsula on "Why I Chose to Practice in Rural Michigan"

• A feature article highlighting a dental education initiative, "Washington’s RIDE Program: A Model …

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Why I Chose To Practice In Rural Michigan, Lisenia M. Collazo Dmd, Mph

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article explores the motivations behind dentists choosing rural practice, focusing on personal experiences and factors influencing career decisions. The narrative outlines the author’s journey from Pennsylvania to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, emphasizing a commitment to addressing oral health disparities in underserved communities. The discussion covers training experiences, financial considerations, community engagement, and the challenges of rural health care. The author also highlights the role of mentorship and advocates for building relationships with mentors in the profession, especially in rural settings. The essay underscores rural practice’s unique advantages, including professional growth, lower living costs, and a supportive community.

Uda To Rda: A Pathway To Greater Success, Margaret Gingrich Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

UDA to RDA: A Pathway to Greater Success" by Margaret Gingrich, DDS, explores the advantages of transitioning unlicensed dental auxiliaries (UDAs) to registered dental assistants (RDAs). The article emphasizes the benefits for both practitioners and staff, citing increased efficiency, improved patient care, and expanded practice capabilities. Dr. Gingrich shares personal experiences from her rural practice, highlighting the challenges of workforce shortages and the strategic adoption of RDAs to address these issues. She outlines a pathway for UDAs to attain RDA status through targeted training programs and contractual agreements, enhancing career satisfaction and practice productivity. The article underscores the importance of …

Interview: Dr. Eric Knudsen 2023-24 Mda President, David Foe Ma

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Dr. Eric Knudsen, the 2023-24 MDA President, brings a wealth of experience and dedication to his new role. Hailing from the Upper Peninsula and a family of dentists, he discusses his goals for the year, including addressing access to dental care, promoting member assistance and well-being programs, and advocating for new dentists. He also shares insights on rural dentistry, community involvement, and increasing member participation in organized dentistry.