Dental Public Health and Education Commons^™

Staff Matters: What Will Be The Impact Of Changes To Michigan’S New Paid Sick Leave Law?, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Michigan's paid sick leave law has seen several changes in recent years, and the latest updates, if upheld, will go into effect in February 2023. The original ballot-initiated law requires most employers to provide paid sick leave to employees. Employers need to be proactive in understanding the potential impact of these changes, including accrual rates, usage limits, notice requirements, and supporting documentation. It's crucial to review current leave policies and prepare for compliance if the law takes effect.

Dentistry And The Law: Employee Vs. Independent Contractor, Dan Schulte Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This month’s Dentistry and the Law column discusses hiring a dentist as an employee or an independent contractor. Employing a dentist as an independent contractor offers advantages such as avoiding compliance with various employment laws and not having to withhold taxes. However, there is uncertainty regarding whether tax and other authorities will recognize the independent contractor relationship. Factors like supervision and control play a significant role in this determination. To mitigate uncertainty, practices can contract with an entity owned by the dentist, providing a potential solution. Legal counsel is recommended for setting up such arrangements.

How To Budget Better For Dental Supplies, Theodore C. Schumann Ii Mba, Msf, Cfp, Aif

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Managing costs effectively is essential for dental practices in an era of rising inflation. One area where overspending can occur is clinical supplies. Over time, complacency among practice owners or staff in charge of ordering supplies can lead to repeated, uninformed purchases. Setting a budget and utilizing technology for supply-sourcing decisions can help control costs. Group purchasing organizations like The Dentists Supply Company (TDSC) can offer significant savings compared to traditional dental distributors. Additionally, practice owners need to strike a balance between bargain shopping for supplies and productive dentistry. Using inferior, cheaper products can lead to complications and costly rework, …

How The Mda Meets Your Need For Quality, Affordable Ce, Kevin Sloan Dds, Ms

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The Michigan Dental Association (MDA) is a prominent provider of continuing dental education (CE) in Michigan. This article includes a guide to State of Michigan Dental Licensure CE requirements and the mandated distribution of subject topics. To aid members in complying with these requirements, the MDA offers diverse educational sessions, live webinars, in-person seminars, and on-demand webinars tailored for dental professionals, including dentists, hygienists, assistants, and office staff. The MDA's CE program is shaped by its Committee on Continuing Education, comprised of diverse member dentists. The MDA collaborates with various committees, organizations, and dental societies to curate a comprehensive lineup …

Staff Matters: When Do Comments About Age Become Discriminatory?, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Age-related comments in the workplace can lead to discrimination and legal consequences. The federal Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) protects employees aged 40 or older, while Michigan law extends protection to all ages. Harassment based on age can create a hostile work environment and result in lawsuits. Employers should address such issues, educate employees about discrimination and bias, and promote a culture that values diversity.

Dentistry And The Law: Ex-Employees Who Solicit Patients Using Stolen Information, Dan Schulte Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This month’s Dentistry and the Law column discusses actions to take with a former employee who solicits patients. In cases where former employees solicit patients using stolen patient information, dental practices can take legal action. Employment agreements and employee handbooks should include confidentiality clauses. Breach of these clauses allows for lawsuits, seeking damages for business loss. Additional claims like tortious interference, unfair competition, and misappropriation may also apply. Michigan's Uniform Trade Secrets Act can provide injunctive relief and damages if the patient information is deemed a "trade secret." Seeking legal advice from an experienced attorney is essential.

J Mich Dent Assoc November 2022

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Monthly, The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association brings news, information, and feature articles to our state's oral health community and the MDA's 6,200+ members. No publication reaches more Michigan dentists!

In this issue, the reader will find the following original content:

• A cover story on choosing an educational path for professional enrichment
• A feature story on how a Michigan manufacturer closed during the pandemic repurposes their operations to produce essential PPE, becoming a COVID Hero for Michigan dentists.
• A feature article on how the MDA provides CE for members to comply with Licensure mandates.
• Feature information on practice management …

Staff Matters: Do You Have Quiet Quitters In Your Practice?, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

In the post-COVID workplace, "quiet quitting" has become a concerning issue where employees meet basic job requirements but lack motivation. This behavior includes a reluctance to take on extra tasks or provide input. To address it, communicate with the affected employees, inquire about their well-being, and assess whether the cause is work-related or personal. Fostering appreciation, connection to the practice's goals, and open feedback can help re-engage employees. Regular one-on-one meetings promote relationships and demonstrate care for their success, improving morale and engagement.

Dentistry And The Law: Dealing With Patients Who Have Been Using Marijuana, Dan Schulte Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

When dealing with patients who emit a strong marijuana odor, it's crucial to focus on their capacity to provide informed consent and the ability to deliver treatment up to the standard of care. Judging their level of intoxication solely by appearance and smell can be unreliable, so it's best to avoid making such judgments. Instead, inform patients that you may refuse treatment if their odor or other factors hinder your ability to provide care. To prevent last-minute issues, communicate this policy in advance, particularly to patients with a history of marijuana odor. Dismissing such patients from your practice may also …

Dentistry And The Law: Understanding The Dental Plan Audit Process, Dan Schulte Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Dental plan audits, which can result in demands for fee repayments, often focus on recordkeeping deficiencies rather than the quality of dental services. Dentists should be aware of key points regarding these audits, including the timing, the nature of audit findings, and the lack of immunity from prior authorizations. Dentists should also request clarification when the audit results are unclear and seek explanations for alleged deficiencies. The audit process may lack a comprehensive explanation, suggesting that the primary goal for dental plans is financial recovery rather than the correction of errors or documentation improvement.

Headquarters Report: Inspire! Support! Lead! With The 2022 Leadership Forum, Karen Burgess Cae

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The Michigan Dental Association highlights the importance of volunteer leaders in the organization's success and the satisfaction of its membership. The in-person Leadership Forum for 2022 offers an exciting lineup, including topics on dental practice trends, legislative action, inclusion, and hot topics in organized dentistry. Breakout sessions cover leadership development, time management, emotional intelligence, and component engagement. Whether experienced or new to volunteer leadership, attending the Leadership Forum provides opportunities for personal and professional growth. Additionally, the article mentions various leadership opportunities available for members and encourages recognition through the MDA Committed Colleague program.

Staff Matters: Should You Create A Combined Pto Bank?, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Consider consolidating separate leave banks into a combined Paid Time Off (PTO) system to simplify administration and boost employee flexibility. PTO allows staff to use their leave days for any purpose without providing a reason. While it fosters trust and personal accountability, it may lead to employees saving days for vacations and working while sick. A PTO policy should address availability, employee type, coordination, and communication to encourage PTO utilization, prevent burnout, and enhance work-life balance.

J Mich Dent Assoc September 2022

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Monthly, The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association brings news, information, and feature articles to our state's oral health community and the MDA's 6,200+ members. No publication reaches more Michigan dentists! In this issue, the reader will find the following original content:

• Annual reports to our readers from each of our state dental schools.
• A 10-Minute EBD column on the use of Articaine local anesthetic.
• News you need, an Editorial and regular department articles, Dentistry and the Law, Staff Matters, Advocacy, Headquarters Report and component news.

This issue also includes one article reprinted with permission.

• Student A by ADA Trustee …

Trends And Expectations For Dentistry, Christopher J. Smiley Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The dental industry is experiencing significant changes, with the rise of Dental Support Organizations (DSOs) and corporate dentistry as a dominant model. Economic trends have attracted venture capitalists to invest in dentistry, leading to the growth of DSOs. While some practitioners worry about losing independence, the trend toward DSOs is driven by practice sales by retiring dentists, high educational debt for graduates limiting their ability to finance a traditional practice purchase, and the need for investment to modernize and achieve efficiencies. A desire for work-life balance may guide a clinician to choose this practice option. The number of solo practitioners …

Why We Chose To Partner In A Corporate Practice, Michael Scialabba Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article addresses the changing landscape of dental practice ownership and the growing importance of DSOs. The article discusses the journey of Great Hill Dental Partners from its inception at the advent of the Affordable Care Act in 2009 to become a fully functional, doctor-owned DSO.

The author emphasizes the need for practitioners to consider partnering with DSOs, especially in the face of rising challenges in the dental industry, such as increased administrative demands, reduced reimbursements, and the complexity of digital marketing and compliance. They outline the factors to evaluate when considering a DSO, including culture, support for clinical care, …

Dentistry And The Law: Can Dental Plan Ratings Be Defamatory?, Dan Schulte Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article discusses the legal implications of dental plan ratings for dentists. If a dental plan assigns a rating to dentists and publishes it to patients without providing specific information about the rating's basis or an opportunity for dentists to contest it, legal recourse may be limited. Currently, no statutory law regulates such ratings, leaving dentists potentially vulnerable to defamatory ratings. Under Michigan law, dentists could sue for defamation, but proving the rating's falseness and the resulting loss of patients may be challenging. Federal regulation is suggested to ensure fairness, transparency, and protection for dentists subjected to involuntary ratings.

Staff Matters: The Value Of Using Total Compensation Statements, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Amid the challenges of a competitive job market and employee retention, offering a comprehensive view of compensation is crucial. While employees often focus solely on their direct wages, they may overlook the value of indirect benefits like healthcare and paid time off. Employers can bridge this gap by providing total compensation statements detailing direct and indirect compensation, demonstrating their investment in employees. Such transparency builds trust and allows employees to assess their compensation relative to other employers better. Employers should ensure consistent calculations and pay equity and emphasize the purpose of sharing this information to foster a positive work culture.

J Mich Dent Assoc August 2022

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Monthly, The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association brings news, information, and feature articles to our state's oral health community and the MDA's 6,200+ members. No publication reaches more Michigan dentists! In this August 2022 issue, the reader will find the following original content:

• A cover story on choosing to partner with a Dental Service Organization (DSO)
• A conversation with three dentists on how and why they are involved with organized dentistry.
• A 10-Minute EBD on the efficacy of vacuum-formed removable orthodontic retainers
• News you need, an Editorial, a report from our ADA Trustee and regular department articles, Dentistry and …

Red Flags And Risks: Unpleasant Surprises When An Office Manager Suddenly Leaves, David Harris Cpa

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Losing an office manager can pose significant challenges for dental practices. This article delves into the red flags and potential risks that may accompany an office manager's sudden departure, shedding light on the importance of understanding the circumstances surrounding their exit. The article highlights how embezzlement can be a reason behind unexplained departures and emphasizes the need to assess the situation more deeply. It explores account ownership issues that can hinder practice owners from accessing crucial business information, particularly in embezzlement investigations. The article recommends proactive measures for practice owners to secure access to vital accounts to prevent potential issues …

Staff Matters: Independent Contractor Or Temporary Employee?, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Determining whether temporary hygienists should be classified as independent contractors or employees requires careful consideration. While treating them as independent contractors offers advantages, such as avoiding payroll taxes and paperwork, it must align with specific IRS criteria. The classification hinges on the degree of control the practice exerts over their work, encompassing behavioral and financial control. If the practice significantly controls aspects like duties, hours, and business aspects, it may be wiser to classify them as employees. The IRS provides a form (SS-8) to assess the relationship in-depth. Additionally, if hygienists request employee status and you cannot definitively prove otherwise, …

Dentistry And The Law: Risk Of Employment Discrimination In Job Advertisements, Dan Schulte Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Employment discrimination in job advertisements that include religious references, such as statements like "faith-based practice" or symbols like crosses, is a legal concern. Federal and Michigan state laws, particularly the Elliot Larson Civil Rights Act (ELCRA), prohibit discrimination in employment, encompassing various protected classes. ELCRA applies to all employers in Michigan, regardless of their size. Violating ELCRA can lead to legal consequences, including injunctive relief and compensatory damages. Including such references or symbols in job ads can be used as evidence against employers in discrimination claims, even if rejected candidates have lesser qualifications. Publishers of these ads are also at …

J Mich Dent Assoc July 2022

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Monthly, The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association brings news, information, and feature articles to our state's oral health community and the MDA's 6,200+ members. No publication reaches more Michigan dentists! In this July 2022 issue, the reader will find the following original content:

• A cover feature on negotiating reimbursement rates with PPO contracts.
• A cover feature on guarding against employee embezzlement.
• A 10-Minute EBD on rampant caries management and prevention with ADHD patients taking stimulant medications.
• A Back Page look at the 2022 MDA award winners.
• News you need: an Editorial, guidance on dental practice cybersecurity, and regular department …

Quality And Transparency, Christopher J. Smiley Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

In a recent JDR Clinical & Translational Research report, the American Dental Association's clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) were determined to offer high-quality guidance for the dental profession. The study employed the AGREE II tool to validate the ADA's guidelines’ methodological rigor and transparency, ensuring their quality. This external review is promising for the profession, as it indicates that the ADA has developed reliable CPGs that support advocacy and implementation. However, the article raises questions about consumer-targeted quality scores for dentist providers, such as DentaQual by P&R Dental Strategies LLC. It suggests that for such scoring systems to be credible, they …

Negotiating Reimbursement Rates With A Ppo Plan, Dana Moss

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Dentists often struggle to negotiate reimbursement rates with dental insurance companies. This article discusses the importance of managing reimbursement from benefit plans and highlights the advantages and disadvantages of participating in insurance networks. It provides a step-by-step guide to negotiating insurance allowances effectively, emphasizing the need for preparation, data analysis, and communication skills. The article suggests ways to maintain profitability in practices with a significant PPO patient base. It includes recommendations for keeping fees balanced, choosing negotiation plans, and building relationships with insurance representatives. The emotional aspects of negotiation are also addressed, promoting a respectful and collaborative approach.

Dentistry And The Law: Purchase Price Allocation When Selling Your Practice, Dan Schulte Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This Dentistry & the Law column advises a dentist on the importance of carefully considering the purchase price allocation when selling a dental practice. While the initial letter of intent may contain such terms, the author emphasizes that they are not binding, and negotiations on the purchase agreement will determine the final allocation. The article highlights the significance of tax implications for both the seller and the buyer, urging involvement of an attorney and accountant in the process. The Internal Revenue Code's requirements for purchase price allocation and potential tension in negotiations are discussed, emphasizing the need for informed decision-making.

Staff Matters: More Tips For Hiring And Developing A Great Staff, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Addressing the challenge of hiring staff in the current job market, this Staff Matters column provides insights for dental practices. With a focus on creating an attractive work culture, the article suggests developing partnerships with educational institutions and emphasizes the importance of continuous learning opportunities. The author encourages practices to define key skills, establish clear expectations, and implement training processes for effective communication, conflict resolution, and teamwork. Emphasizing the role of ongoing coaching and mentoring, the column outlines the necessity of investing in training and development to build a skilled and cohesive dental team.

Covid-19’S Impact On Dental Practice: Managing With Less Support, Christopher J. Smiley Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This editorial explores the impact of COVID-19 on dental practice, focusing on the challenges of managing with reduced support due to workforce shortages. The author shares personal experiences highlighting broader workforce realities, including stress, compensation concerns, and a desire for work-life balance contributing to the "Great Resignation." The dental field, already facing shortages, witnesses increased competition for skilled professionals, with corporate dentistry exacerbating the situation. The editorial discusses potential solutions, such as revising delegation rules, addressing relicensure barriers, and advocating for higher education funding. The lasting changes in dental practice administration and patient care delivery post-COVID-19, including potential shifts in …

Meet New Mda President Vince Benivegna, David Foe Ma

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

In an interview with the Journal, Dr. Vince Benivegna, incoming Michigan Dental Association (MDA) President, shares insights into his goals, challenges facing Michigan dentists, and the value of organized dentistry. As an oral surgeon and seasoned MDA volunteer, Dr. Benivegna addresses issues such as staffing shortages, dental supplies, and the evolving practice environment. He emphasizes the MDA's role in advocacy, mentorship, and supporting diverse dental professionals. Discussing the opioid crisis, Dr. Benivegna highlights dentistry's contributions while acknowledging the need for ongoing efforts. The interview provides a comprehensive view of leadership, professional growth, and work-life balance in organized dentistry.

Dentistry And The Law: What Is Illegal About Disclosing Fee Schedules?, Dan Schulte Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This Dentistry and the Law column addresses the question of disclosing fee schedules by dental plans. The author clarifies that dental plans often withhold fee schedule information, citing potential antitrust violations or illegality. However, the column asserts that this is an excuse rather than a legal constraint. The author explains that disclosing fee schedules does not violate antitrust laws; violations occur through agreements that unreasonably restrain competition. The reluctance of dental plans to disclose fee information is attributed to business objectives, not legal concerns. Dentists are encouraged to request fee schedules to make informed decisions about network participation, with a …

J Mich Dent Assoc May 2022

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Monthly, The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association brings news, information, and feature articles to our state's oral health community and the MDA's 6,200+ members. No publication reaches more Michigan dentists!

In this May 2022 issue, the reader will find the following original content:

• A feature on “Periodontal Disease and COVID-19"
• A cover feature introducing Dr. Vince Benivegna 2022-23 MDA President
• A 10-Minute EBD: “Charcoal Toothpastes Pose Risks with Few Benefits”
• A Professional Ethics article on “How Can Our Office be More Inclusive of Transgender Patients”
• News you need: an Editorial, a profile on Dr. Jessica Rikert, recipient of the …