Open Access. Powered by Scholars. Published by Universities.®
Community Health and Preventive Medicine Commons™
Open Access. Powered by Scholars. Published by Universities.®
Articles 1 - 5 of 5
Full-Text Articles in Community Health and Preventive Medicine
President’S Address: Dr. Vince Benivegna, Vince Benivegna Dds
President’S Address: Dr. Vince Benivegna, Vince Benivegna Dds
The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association
Dr. Vince Benivegna, the outgoing President of the Michigan Dental Association, addressed the House of Delegates, emphasizing the significant progress in enhancing Adult Dental Medicaid coverage and reimbursement in Michigan. He thanked the dedicated individuals who supported him during his tenure and shared his journey. Dr. Benivegna lauded Michigan's accomplishments in reducing opioid prescribing and highlighted the MDA's role as a model state society in advocacy, leadership, mentorship, continuing education, diversity, equity, and inclusion. He praised Michigan's achievements in improving Adult Dental Medicaid, encouraging Michigan dentists to participate and help address oral health disparities. Dr. Benivegna underscored how this aligns …
Advocacy Spotlight: Are You An Advocate?, Vincent Benivegna Dds
Advocacy Spotlight: Are You An Advocate?, Vincent Benivegna Dds
The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association
Advocacy is crucial for dentists in Michigan, as they face a unique opportunity to impact Medicaid dental benefits positively. Governor Gretchen Whitmer's budget proposal for 2023 includes a substantial $240 million investment to revamp dental Medicaid benefits, a historic move for the state. The Michigan Dental Association (MDA) has actively engaged with government offices and legislators to ensure this opportunity is not missed. However, despite the MDA's efforts to mobilize members through action alerts, response rates have disappointed. The article emphasizes the importance of consistent advocacy, as it has the power to influence dental practices and the well-being of patients …
The Governor’S Budget Awareness For Dentistry, Christopher J. Smiley Dds
The Governor’S Budget Awareness For Dentistry, Christopher J. Smiley Dds
The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association
This editorial highlights the significance of the Governor's proposed budget in February, marking a substantial step forward for oral health awareness in Michigan. The budget allocates funds for long-sought oral health initiatives, including addressing barriers to hospital-based dental care, enhancing Medicaid coverage for adults, and streamlining dental plans. With a focus on workforce availability, the editorial emphasizes the critical role of oral health in employability. The proposed budget, influenced by effective MDA advocacy, reflects a notable achievement in prioritizing dentistry, underscoring the potential for future opportunities.
Please Don’T Shoot The Messenger, Christopher J. Smiley Dds
Please Don’T Shoot The Messenger, Christopher J. Smiley Dds
The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association
This editorial emphasizes the importance of discerning reliable information amid the influx of COVID-19-related studies and guidelines. Drawing parallels with the ancient Greek sentiment from Sophocles' play Antigone, JMDA Editor Dr. Chris Smiley advocates for an open-minded approach to trustworthy sources, citing the World Health Organization's seven steps for evaluation. The Michigan Dental Association is highlighted as a reliable resource for synthesizing evolving information for clinicians. Despite pandemic-induced frustrations, the editorial urges practitioners to navigate changes resiliently, recognizing the dynamic nature of public health guidance.
Commentary: The Role Of The Mda’S Committee On Diversity, Equity, And Inclusion, Mehul Patel Dds
Commentary: The Role Of The Mda’S Committee On Diversity, Equity, And Inclusion, Mehul Patel Dds
The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association
This Commentary emphasizes the Michigan Dental Association's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, aligning with its 2021-25 strategic plan. The Committee on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is tasked with monitoring demographic trends, enhancing inclusion, recommending equity actions, and improving member value for diverse dentists. Rejecting perceptions of tokenism, the committee underscores the importance of embracing diversity beyond race, including various dimensions like age, gender identity, and practice setting. Encouraging members to actively contribute, the commentary emphasizes the role of diversity in strengthening the MDA and advancing oral healthcare.