Business Administration, Management, and Operations Commons^™

Revised Law Impacts Conduct Of Business In Office And At Home, Lance Plunkett Jd, Llm

The New York State Dental Journal

The ease of automatic renewals is countered by strict new requirements in General Business Law attached to their use.

News You Need July 2025

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

News You Need for July 2025 includes a listing of MDA members who have completed service on committees; a link to recent MDA Board actions; news about two dental journalism awards won by the MDA Journal; how younger patients are negatively influenced by social media; a letter to the editor regarding dental insurance; information about MDA Foundation scholarships; members receiving awards; a calendar of events; a patient fact sheet; and more.

Moving Drives You Crazy, Michelle C. Dziurgot

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The Editor-in-Chief shares her frustrating experience moving a dental office. Key challenges included dental insurances dropping the practice from networks during recredentialing, causing denied claims for 30-60 days despite no changes to tax ID or NPI. State regulations also required new payments for radiation tubes, rather than crediting previous payments, despite a reduction in equipment. Furthermore, dental supply companies and movers did not take responsibility for broken equipment during the move. Despite these "insane and archaic" hurdles, most patients transitioned, and the article concludes with a comprehensive resource list for practice address changes

J Mich Dent Assoc July 2025

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Each 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 5,800 members. It stands as the primary publication reaching Michigan dentists. The all-digital July issue features Dr. Michele Tulak-Gorecki’s "It’s Time to Dare Greatly at the ADA," where she outlines her vision for ADA president-elect, focusing on financial integrity, strengthened advocacy, and fostering unity amidst challenges like declining membership and issues with the association management system.

Supporting articles highlight the MDA’s endorsement of MEDVA, offering cost-effective, HIPAA-compliant virtual assistant solutions for dental practices to …

Mda At Your Service: Does The Mda Have A Source For Free Labor Law Posters?, Rachel Sinacola Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This "Q&A" section addresses common MDA member inquiries. It confirms that MDA members receive free labor law posters and automatic updates directly from the association. The MDA also offers affiliate memberships for dentists moving out-of-state but retaining Michigan ties, preserving benefits like discounted CE. Information is provided on the Certified Dental Business Professional (CDBP) program, which offers affordable staff certification over three years. The next Mission of Mercy is scheduled for June 11-14, 2026, in Kalamazoo. Finally, the article notes the discontinuation of the MDA Fee Survey due to antitrust changes, and directs members to the ADA/MDA Code of Ethics …

The New Professional: Reimagining Rapport: Innovative Ways Dental Teams Connect With Patients, Amrita Patel Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article explores innovative communication strategies for dental practices to enhance patient interaction. It highlights the importance of digital onboarding for streamlined intake, two-way text messaging for efficient appointments, and personalized video messages to foster connection. Practices are adopting multilingual communication and AI tools like chatbots for 24/7 inquiry handling, integrating them with patient records for tailored responses. Interactive platforms with 3D visuals and video tutorials are used for patient education, empowering them in oral health decisions. The article also emphasizes leveraging social media for engagement, capturing real-time patient feedback, and maintaining empathy-driven human interaction despite technological advancements

To Thine Own Self Be True

The New York State Dental Journal

THE NYSDA DIVERSITY and Inclusion Task Force, charged with acknowledging and promoting the disparate components of the Association’s membership, joins in the national observance of June as Pride Month. Designated in 1999, Pride Month commemorates the contributions to life and culture made by lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer people. Among those celebrating and being celebrated this month is NYSDA member Alison Rascon, D.D.S., M.S.

Dentistry And The Law: What Ever Happened To The Ban On Covenants Not To Compete?, Daniel Schulte Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) rule banning most employee non-competition agreements remains held up, despite a scheduled September 2024 effective date, due to ongoing court challenges with conflicting decisions. Recent changes at the FTC, including the appointment of a new chair (Andrew Ferguson) who previously opposed the ban, suggest a potential reversal or non-enforcement by the current Trump administration. While motions have been filed to hold appeals in abeyance, the FTC's formation of a new Joint Labor Task Force complicates the outlook, indicating continued focus on antitrust issues in the labor market. A clear outcome or timeline for the ban …

Mda Services: Cut Costs, Not Care: Solving Your Staffing Challenges With Medva, Reva Darling

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The MDA has endorsed MEDVA, a virtual assistant staffing solution, to help members improve operational efficiency and reduce administrative burdens in dental practices. MEDVA provides experienced, HIPAA-compliant, non-clinical human professionals for tasks such as appointment scheduling, insurance verification, and billing. This partnership aims to address high turnover and rising overhead by offering cost-effective staffing solutions. MDA members receive special benefits, including a discounted hourly rate of $9.75, which is significantly lower than average Michigan rates for similar in-person roles. MEDVA’s service includes access to trained virtual assistants, proprietary technology, and a client success team

It’S Time To Dare Greatly At The Ada, Michele Tulak-Gorecki Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Dr. Michele Tulak-Gorecki, a candidate for ADA president-elect, outlines her platform, emphasizing the urgency for bold, collaborative leadership within the ADA. She addresses member concerns following the executive director's resignation, focusing on rebuilding trust and enhancing oversight. Her vision confronts declining membership, financial issues, and the flawed association management system (AMS) rollout, advocating for increased transparency and financial literacy. Tulak-Gorecki stresses the ADA's vital role in advocacy and unity across the tripartite model to protect the profession's standing. She calls for collective action to create a transparent, inclusive, innovative, and unified ADA

Staff Matters: I Need To Fire Someone. Help!, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Terminating an employee is a challenging and risky decision for "at will" employers in Michigan. This article provides best practices, starting with assessing legal risks like discrimination claims. It emphasizes the importance of documenting performance issues, feedback, and training provided, as well as adhering to employee handbook policies. Consideration should be given to offering severance packages, which may include pay in lieu of notice or a larger sum with a legal separation agreement. For the termination meeting, plan brief talking points, have a second person present, choose a quiet time, and ensure retrieval of practice property and removal of system …

The Back Page: Commentary: Going Non-Par: My Perspective, And 10 Lessons I’Ve Learned, Robert Antolak Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Dr. Robert Antolak shares his experience and ten lessons from transitioning his dental practice to a non-participating (non-par) status with insurance in January 2025, driven by declining reimbursements and the need to prioritize patient care. He highlights the unfairness of lower PPO reimbursements for newer dentists. Key lessons include securing a trusted coach, early patient communication, building a financial safety net, ensuring full team buy-in, committing with faith, tightening billing systems, frequent patient reminders, advocating for patients, creating an in-office payment plan (not percentage discounts), and clearly articulating the "why". Though revenue initially dropped, he anticipates full recovery, aiming to …

Getting Help When The Going Gets Tough, Michelle C. Dziurgot D.D.S.

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

In her editorial, Dr. Dziurgot emphasizes the importance of emotional support and mental health resources for dentists. She shares her own experiences of turning to family in tough times and offers practical alternatives for those without such support. Strategies include journaling, creative expression, and seeking professional counseling through programs like the MDA Member Assistance Program and ADA Talkspace. She encourages open dialogue and mutual support within the dental community.

Staff Matters: The Transformative Power Of Mentoring In The Workplace, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article advocates for implementing mentoring programs in dental practices to support new employees beyond traditional onboarding. The author emphasizes that mentoring is particularly valuable for early-career professionals and resonates strongly with Millennials and Gen Z who prioritize learning opportunities. Statistical evidence from Harvard Business Review shows that 76% of professionals consider mentoring crucial for growth, 74% attribute career success to mentoring relationships, and 89% of mentees become mentors themselves. The article provides practical implementation guidance, suggesting practices start with informal programs matching new employees with seasoned staff members. Key recommendations include establishing clear expectations, providing financial support for mentor-mentee …

Mda At Your Service: One Way To Free Your Practice From Insurance Plan Restrictions, Rachel Sinacola D.D.S.

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This Q&A-style article provides practical answers to common member questions. Topics include managing in-office dental plans (via Quality Dental Plan), evaluating associate contracts, showcasing MDA membership, handling radiography training course transfers, and understanding patient record retention requirements. The article encourages using MDA-endorsed resources and legal guidance to enhance practice efficiency and compliance.

The 2025 Mda Annual Session: Revving Up Dentistry!, Andrea Sundeman Cae

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The 2025 Michigan Dental Association (MDA) Annual Session, themed "Revving Up Dentistry!", took place from April 23-26 at the Detroit Marriott Renaissance Center, marking a return to a venue previously used in the 1980s and early 1990s. The event drew approximately 1,800 dental professionals for four days of continuing education. Key highlights included keynote addresses by "American Ninja" champion Hoan Do and actor/activist Sean Astin, who discussed mental health. The session also featured 112 exhibitors, the MDA Foundation Sparkling Smiles Celebration which successfully raised nearly $160,000 for student scholarships and access-to-care grants, an MDA Dental PAC fundraiser, and meetings of …

Endorsed Program News, Reva Darling

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This Month's news from MDA Endorsed Programs advises early-career dentists on how to navigate real estate challenges during a practice transition. It cautions against relying on generic market comparisons, making emotional decisions, or bypassing expert real estate coordinators. It recommends working with dental-specific real estate advisors like Bridge Commercial Realty to ensure fair valuations and smooth transactions. Additional endorsed services are highlighted, including cyber insurance (Coalition Active), PPO negotiation, reputation management, and cost-saving credit card processing.

News You Need: It's Mid-Year: Are You Taking Advantage Of Your Mda Member Benefits?

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This comprehensive overview highlights numerous MDA member benefits available to Michigan dentists. Key offerings include practice guidelines on various topics, a formal mentor program, DiSC training for staff development, social media support kits, extensive continuing education programs, and student debt resources. Additional benefits encompass ADA resources, contract analysis services, radiography training programs, job board access, legal assistance, regulatory compliance support, insurance services, and human resources guidance. The article also announces MDA Dental PAC competition winners who contributed $23,000 for advocacy activities, reports on staff departures including HR director Brandy Ryan and Medicare expert Rick Seely, and recognizes table clinic winners …

J Mich Dent Assoc June 2025

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association is the leading monthly digital publication serving Michigan’s oral health community and the MDA’s 6,200+ members. Distributed globally through the searchable ADA Commons publishing platform, it is the primary channel for news, clinical insights, and professional resources for Michigan dentists.

June Issue Highlights:

• Cover Feature: An in-depth report on the MDA’s advocacy efforts beyond insurance reimbursement, highlighting recent legislative wins and member services that support practice profitability and success.
• Workforce Well-being: A special feature on the stages of stress and burnout, with strategies and resources to support mental health and resilience.
• Compliance Update: …

Dentistry And The Law: Can I Use Patient Information To Respond To Internet Criticism?, Daniel Schulte J.D.

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This legal guidance addresses dentists' inability to respond to negative online reviews using patient information. The article explains that HIPAA and Michigan's Dentist-Patient Privilege Statute prohibit healthcare professionals from disclosing patient information without authorization, even when defending against false or defamatory online posts. Unlike patients who can freely share information about their treatment, dentists face significant legal restrictions. The author notes that legal recourse is often difficult due to challenges in proving poster identity, distinguishing factual statements from opinions, and demonstrating specific damages. The recommended approach is to avoid responding to negative posts and instead focus on reputation management through …

The New Professional: Demystifying Dental Insurance For The New Professional, Amrita Patel D.D.S.

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This comprehensive guide explains dental insurance complexities for new associates and practice owners. The author distinguishes dental insurance from medical insurance, noting annual benefit caps of $1,000-$2,000 versus unlimited medical coverage. Four main plan types are detailed: PPO plans (most common, flexible), HMO plans (lower costs, network restrictions), Indemnity plans (no network limits, higher costs), and Discount plans (membership programs, not insurance). Key business considerations include in-network versus out-of-network decisions, with in-network providing patient attraction but reduced reimbursements, while out-of-network allows fee control but limits patient base. The article addresses practical challenges including write-offs (difference between standard fees and insurance …

Mda Foundation: Scholarship Awardee Hopes To Expand Access To Care With Free Clinical Services, Anne Berquist

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This profile features Morgan Sherrard, recipient of the $4,000 MDA Foundation/Dr. and Mrs. Gary Jeffers scholarship, who developed her passion for dentistry while volunteering at Holland Free Health Clinic. Her experiences witnessing patients choose between dental care and basic necessities inspired her career direction toward serving underserved populations. Currently completing her second year at University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry, Sherrard envisions establishing a comprehensive clinic offering free or low-cost holistic health services. Her ambitious plan includes potentially partnering with her twin brother Mitchell, a medical student at Michigan State University, to create a combined medical-dental facility. During her …

Mda Insurance: 5 Reasons You Need Life, Disability Insurance, Craig Start Mba

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article outlines essential insurance protections for dental professionals and their practices. The five key reasons include: life insurance providing survivor income for family maintenance and lifestyle continuation; life insurance serving as an investment vehicle with cash value for practice ownership or business goals; decreasing term life insurance covering business mortgages with reducing benefits as equity increases; disability insurance providing income replacement through age 70 for "own-occupation" coverage when unable to practice dentistry; and business overhead expense insurance covering practice expenses during disability periods. The author emphasizes that these insurance products are often overlooked despite being critical for financial security. …

Wax On, Wax Off - Polishing Toward An Exceptional Staff, Michael Saba D.M.D.

Journal of the Macomb Dental Society

This article features a monthly column from the Macomb Dental Society's editor, Dr. Michael Saba.

Mda At Your Service: Questions About Dental Insurance Participation, Kristin Johnson Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article by the MDA membership Chair Kristin Johnson and the Michigan Dental Association (MDA) Department on Membership addresses common questions from dental professionals. It highlights the MDA's endorsement of PPO Negotiation Solutions to help members maximize profitability through insurance network participation and fee negotiation.

The MDA also provides guidance on hiring associates and their network participation, emphasizing the importance of understanding patient base and practice goals. Furthermore, the document outlines the MDA's resources for patient inquiries on water fluoridation, including talking points and online materials. Information on MIOSHA regulations and compliance within dental practices is also available through the …

Mda Services: Get Help To Take The Pain Out Of Regulatory Compliance, Reva Darling

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article from MDA Services highlights the challenges dentists face with regulatory compliance and the MDA's efforts to endorse companies that offer solutions. It emphasizes that MDA-endorsed companies, such as Eagle Associates, provide HIPAA compliance systems, OSHA safety programs, and OIG compliance programs with policy manuals, training, and ongoing support. The article also discusses HIPAA-compliant email solutions offered by iCoreConnect (iCoreExchange) and electronic prescribing software (iCoreRx) that integrates with MAPS, both available to MDA members at discounted rates.

Presenting The Michigan Dental Association Award Winners For 2025, David Foe

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This file announces the 2025 MDA Award winners, recognizing individuals and organizations for their outstanding contributions to the dental profession and the community. The awards include the John G. Nolen Meritorious Award (awarded to Dr. John A. DeCarolis), the Matt Uday New Dentist Leadership Award (awarded to Dr. Riley Schaff), and the MDA Public Service Award (awarded to Dr. Denise Polk).

Other accolades include the MDA Public Relations Award (awarded to Dr. Jessica Rickert) and MDA Dental Educator Awards for faculty at the University of Michigan (Dr. Riley Schaff) and University of Detroit Mercy (Dr. Mark R. Mortiere). The Allied …

Meet The Mda’S New President, Cheri Newman, Dds, David Foe

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This cover story introduces the new president of the MDA, Dr. Cheri Newman, highlighting her unique journey from dental hygienist to dentist. Dr. Newman discusses her motivations for becoming involved with the MDA, emphasizing the importance of giving back to the profession and the influence of mentors. She outlines her goals for the upcoming year, which include increasing membership, addressing workforce shortages, and tackling student debt. Dr. Newman also stresses the significance of member involvement in organized dentistry and acknowledges the challenges related to workforce issues like the need for more dental hygienists and assistants. She underscores the value of …

J Mich Dent Assoc May 2025

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association is published digitally each month through ADA Commons, reaching 166 countries and accumulating over 35,800 downloads. This extensive reach provides news, information, and features about Michigan dentistry, our state's oral health community, and the MDA's 6,200+ members. It serves as the main publication for connecting with Michigan dentists.

The May issue features:

• An informative interview with Dr. Cheri Newman, the MDA’s new president.
• A feature article from Delta Dental on the utilization of dental services pre- and post-COVID-19 and how the continuing decline in the utilization of restorative services may impact plan design. …

Staff Matters: Understanding And Implementing The Earned Sick Time Act, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This month’s "Staff Matters" column provides a summary of the recent amendments to the Earned Sick Time Act (ESTA) in Michigan, which brought significant changes just as the original effective date approached. It clarifies the effective dates for different employer sizes, with small employers (10 or fewer employees) having an extended deadline of October 1, 2025. The article outlines key changes related to structuring time banks, policy revisions, and required employee notifications. It also mentions free resources and tools available through HRM Services and a revised MDA Staff Matters® Sample Employee Handbook to aid in ESTA compliance.