Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations Commons^™

Nov. 2026 Mda Insurance - Could Your Practice Be Vulnerable To Embezzlement?, Reva Darling

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This feature highlights internal financial risks facing dental practices, noting that up to 70% of dentists may experience embezzlement during their careers. Citing high-profile Michigan fraud cases, author Reva Darling outlines critical behavioral warning signs of internal theft, such as resistance to duty cross-training or reluctance to take vacations. It introduces Prosperident’s free Embezzlement Risk Assessment Questionnaire for MDA members to evaluate vulnerabilities and establish robust internal controls.

July 2026 Cover Story — 40 Years Of Mda Insurance And Mda Services, Reva Darling

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article celebrates the 40th anniversary of MDA Insurance and MDA Services, the Michigan Dental Association's for-profit subsidiary. It outlines the history of the subsidiary, its evolution from small beginnings to a robust provider of commercial and personal insurance products, and its significant financial impact, returning over $42 million to the MDA since 1994. The piece emphasizes the subsidiary’s "by dentists, for dentists" philosophy, its role in keeping member dues stable through non-dues revenue, and its successful innovation of endorsed programs like Bank of America Practice Solutions and precious metals refining.

July 2026 Staff Matters® — Is It Time For Our Dental Practice To Consider Outsourcing Hr?, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This column examines the practicalities of outsourcing human resources (HR) functions for growing dental practices. Jodi Schafer explains that as administrative burdens like hiring and compliance become overwhelming for small teams, bringing in outside HR support offers a flexible and expertise-driven solution. Benefits include peace of mind regarding evolving employment laws, formalized internal operations, and streamlined technology integration for payroll and benefits. The article outlines key indicators for when a practice should consider this move and emphasizes that an effective HR partner should function as an extension of the practice’s unique culture and values.

Mda Insurance: Why You Need A Financial Safety Net — Just In Case, Craig Start

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Craig Start, President of MDA Insurance, emphasizes the critical need for dental professionals to have a comprehensive plan for career-ending injuries or illnesses. He outlines a necessary financial safety net that includes life insurance for heirs, disability income insurance to maintain personal lifestyle, and business overhead expense insurance to protect practice value. The article provides data showing many individuals are underinsured and urges dentists to obtain professional reviews of their insurance portfolios to protect against unpredictable risks.

The New Professional: Are You Buying Technology Before You’Re Ready?, Amrita Patel Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article provides strategic advice for new practice owners considering large investments in advanced dental technology. It warns against "premature purchases" driven by social media comparison, arguing that operational stability, team training, and consistent patient flow must precede high-tech acquisitions. Instead, it encourages prioritizing foundational tools—such as digital radiography and practice management systems—that directly improve clinical communication and revenue cycle management.

Staff Matters: Should I Negotiate A Starting Salary With A Final Candidate?, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article provides guidance for dental practice owners on handling salary negotiations with final job candidates. The author emphasizes the need for a well-defined salary structure based on market data to avoid internal pay inequities and budget strain. It recommends that employers communicate their compensation philosophy transparently and broaden the discussion beyond base pay to include the value of the total benefits package, such as health insurance, retirement plans, and professional development.

May 2026 Endorsed Programs News, Reva Darling

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This source details several MDA-endorsed services intended to improve practice efficiency and profitability. Key topics include selecting a fiduciary financial adviser, the regulatory requirements for surcharging credit cards to offset processing fees, and the cost-competitive benefits of the MDA Health Plan. It also promotes iCore solutions for Revenue Cycle Management, which automate insurance verification and billing to reduce administrative friction and enhance financial performance.

Your First Hire: Building Your Team From The Ground Up, Amrita Patel Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Dr. Amrita Patel offers strategic guidance for new dentists entering practice ownership, focusing on the critical decision of the first team hire. The article describes the initial employee as a "brand ambassador" who establishes the practice’s culture and patient expectations. Patel advises against rushed hiring and suggests seeking candidates with complementary strengths rather than matching personalities. The piece emphasizes that while clinical skills can be trained, integrity and empathy are innate. Consistent leadership and clear protocol reinforcement are presented as essential for turning the first hire into a stabilizing force for long-term success.

Endorsed Programs News: Mda Insurance Receives High Honors, Reva Darling

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This report covers updates on MDA-endorsed programs designed to provide value and operational support to members. It announces that MDA Insurance has won the 2025 "State Administrator of the Year" award for its professional liability programs. The document also promotes the environmental benefits of recycling dental scrap metal through D-MMEX Easyrefine and introduces the cost-saving benefits of MEDVA virtual assistants for administrative tasks. Additionally, it advertises upcoming Medicare educational seminars to help member dentists and their staff navigate retirement planning and health insurance transitions effectively.

Dentistry Is The Life For Me, Michelle C. Dziurgot

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

In this editorial, the author reflects on her long career in dentistry and shares recent experiences with practice management and technological upgrades. She details the challenging but successful process of renegotiating PPO contracts to improve reimbursement rates and the financial benefits of moving to a more efficient office space. The author also highlights the clinical benefits of new equipment, such as a hand-held X-ray unit, and expresses her continued passion for the profession. The piece serves as both a personal reflection and an encouragement to colleagues to find joy and efficiency in their practices.

Endorsed Programs News, Reva Darling

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This section provides updates on services and resources endorsed by the MDA to help members succeed in practice. It covers critical compliance topics like OSHA employee alarm standards and emergency evacuation procedures. Financial advice is offered for associates looking to purchase a practice, focusing on credit scores and debt management. Additionally, it promotes tools for increasing revenue through PPO negotiation and lowering insurance costs via risk management training. The source also mentions the availability of free, confidential counseling through the MDA Member Assistance Program.

Ce Spotlight: New Dentists! Check Out These Great Annual Session Courses, David Foe

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This source highlights continuing education opportunities specifically recommended for new dentists at the upcoming Michigan Dental Association (MDA) Annual Session in Grand Rapids. It lists a variety of course titles covering clinical techniques, leadership, practice ownership, and personal wellness. Additionally, it provides information on how to access a full listing of MDA CE courses, including on-demand webinars and radiography training, through the official website.

Unfortunately, The Price Of Procrastination Is Higher Premiums, Jeff Spindler Mda Ifg

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article discusses the relationship between property maintenance and insurance premium costs. It emphasizes that standard policies do not cover normal wear and tear and provides a checklist of preventative measures for home and auto to help members avoid claims. The author also recommends additional coverages, such as personal umbrella and cyber insurance, to address modern liability and security threats. The piece concludes by encouraging members to use MDA Insurance for coverage reviews and to take advantage of available discounts.

Structuring A Practice Sale: The Basics, Daniel Schulte Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This legal column provides an overview of the basic structures involved in selling a dental practice. It distinguishes between equity interest sales, which often favor sellers through capital gains treatment and liability transfers, and asset sales, which buyers generally prefer to avoid liabilities and gain tax depreciation benefits. The author discusses the role of a Letter of Intent, the importance of due diligence, and professional valuation, urging practitioners to assemble a team of specialized legal and financial advisors.

How Much Could You Save Using Mda Services Endorsed Vendors?, Reva Darling

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This column details the financial advantages of utilizing MDA-endorsed vendors to improve practice profitability. It explains the vetting process performed by volunteers to ensure vendors offer meaningful discounts and vetted solutions. The source highlights specific services, such as PPO fee negotiation, dental marketing, and insurance verifications, which can save a practice over $58,000 annually. By leveraging collective bargaining, members gain access to revenue-boosting solutions without exhaustive trial-and-error searching.

Staff Matters: How To Get Creative With Staff Benefit Offerings, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Small practices must be intentional and creative with benefits to distinguish themselves in the competitive labor market. Strategies include offering Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRAs) or covering dental/vision care. Work-life balance benefits are highly valued, such as flexible scheduling, additional paid time off beyond the state-mandated Earned Sick Time Act, or time off for birthdays. Practices should consider financial wellness options like retirement savings plans or student loan repayment assistance. Professional development, like covering certifications and offering mentorship, is crucial. Using platforms like TASC or Fringe to provide flexible "lifestyle" benefits allows employees to choose perks that matter most …

The Case For Credentialing Dental Assistants, Michelle Godofsky

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Credentialing dental assistants is presented as a method to enhance productivity and address workforce shortages; currently, only about 15% of Michigan dental assistants are Registered Dental Assistants (RDAs). A case study at Thunder Bay Community Health Service, an FQHC in Northern Michigan, illustrates success, where RDAs perform expanded functions—like placing restorations and monitoring nitrous oxide—boosting clinic productivity by 16%. The clinic supports its dental assistants by covering education and exam expenses and providing study time during work hours. This investment improves job satisfaction, confidence, morale, and patient communication among staff, strengthening employee retention.

Dentistry And The Law: Miscellaneous Questions About Dental Records, Daniel Schulte Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This column addresses the legal requirements surrounding dental records. Dentists must furnish copies of records to patients or those acting on their behalf (with signed consent), but the original records should always be retained by the treating dentist. Patient information regarding care and treatment is confidential and privileged; disclosure requires written patient consent unless specific legal exceptions apply, such as court orders, defense of a claim, or HIPAA compliance for treatment, payment, or healthcare operations. Dentists must also obtain a signed release from the patient (or guardian for minors) before displaying "before and after" photos for commercial use to avoid …

What Doesn’T Kill You, Makes You Stronger, Michelle C. Dziurgot

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The editorial describes the significant damage caused to a dental office in August 2025 by an "all-out power surge" resulting from a direct lightning strike, which fried equipment including dental chairs, computers, and HVAC. This forced the practice to close and reschedule patients. The experience highlighted the critical importance of having property and business interruption insurance through MDA Insurance to cover physical damages and lost scheduled procedures. Dentists are advised to install surge protectors at their fuse boxes, review their policies, document all damage with photos and receipts, and advocate aggressively for timely claim payments to ensure the practice is …

Mda Insurance And Mda Services: Your One-Stop Partners In Practice Success!

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

MDA Insurance and MDA Services act as one-stop partners for Michigan dentists, delivering support in risk management, compliance, and profitability since 1986. MDA Insurance provides a wide array of specialized coverage, including professional liability, health (MDA Health Plan), life, disability, and personal lines. MDA Services offers vetted programs and endorsed vendors designed to save members money and time, generating royalties that fund MDA advocacy and education efforts. Utilizing these member benefits—such as reducing practice overhead through discounts on dental supplies (34% savings) or remote staffing (saving over $21,000 annually)—can easily offset membership dues. The dual entity provides comprehensive support, ensuring …

The New Professional: Evaluating A Practice Purchase: Guidance For The First-Time Buyer, Amrita Patel Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This guidance for first-time dental practice buyers stresses that evaluating a practice involves more than just the price tag, encompassing financials, people, culture, and potential growth. Buyers must analyze at least three years of financial statements, paying close attention to collection trends, accounts receivable, overhead, net income, and the mix of insurance plans. Patient loyalty is critical; buyers must assess the number of "active" patients (seen in the last 18–24 months) and recognize that attrition may occur if loyalty was tied strongly to the selling doctor. Inheriting experienced, welcoming staff and a positive office culture is crucial for success. Practical …

Mda Services: 4 Reasons To Call In The Embezzlement Protection And Investigation Professionals, Reva Darling

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

With over 50% of dentists experiencing embezzlement, often due to over-trusting staff with financial tasks, the MDA endorses Prosperident for protection and investigation. Four reasons to seek their help include: inheriting an office manager who knows more about the practice management software than the new owner; financial reports showing income is lower than expected based on patient volume; identifying "red flags" such as an employee refusing vacation or cross-training; and needing proactive strategies to protect cash flow. The average loss is about $109,000. Prosperident offers a $1,500 "First Look" service to covertly review records and identify anomalies, providing evidence needed …

J Mich Dent Assoc November 2025

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Each month, the Journal of the Michigan Dental Association delivers news, information, and features about Michigan dentistry to our state's oral health community and the MDA's 6,200+ members. It remains the main publication reaching Michigan dentists and is available worldwide through ADA Commons.

The November 2025 (Volume 107, No. 11) issue of the Journal is published in both hard copy and with a digital-only format to provide updates and insights for Michigan's oral health community and MDA members. Print editions will resume in November.

The November issue focuses on membership along with a reprinted clinical article on the Oral Manifestations …

Dentistry And The Law: Sponsoring A Foreign National To Work As A Dentist, Kate Mccarroll Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

To employ a foreign national as a dentist in the U.S., a valid immigration status that permits employment is necessary, usually requiring employer sponsorship. The H-1B visa is the most common option, and requires the individual to hold a bachelor's degree and a state license for patient care. H-1Bs are limited in number, with far more applicants than available visas, and selections are made through a random electronic lottery every March. Exceptions to the cap exist for foreign nationals changing employers and those sponsored by cap-exempt institutions, such as universities, allowing private practices to “borrow” this status. For Canadian or …

Dentistry And The Law: We Forgot To Renew Our Employment Agreement —Now What?, Daniel Schulte Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This Q&A addresses the legal implications when a fixed-term dental employment agreement expires without formal renewal. MDA Legal Counsel explains that if the employee continues working under the same conditions, an oral employment agreement is implicitly formed, retaining the original terms but becoming terminable without cause by either party at any time. A key consequence is that any post-termination provisions, such as a covenant not to compete, begin their restricted period countdown from the original agreement's expiration date, regardless of continued employment. The article advises that it's generally more practical for employment agreements to simply state that the term continues …

Staff Matters: Can I Google Someone Before I Decide To Hire Them?, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This Q&A addresses the practice of using Google searches to vet job applicants, cautioning that while it provides public information, it can also inadvertently reveal protected classifications (e.g., religious beliefs, race, age), making hiring decisions based on such information illegal and discriminatory. The article advises conducting internet searches after a screening interview to first establish a candidate's qualifications, which provides a defensible rationale for hiring choices. It is crucial to obtain a signed release from the applicant before conducting any background checks to ensure compliance with laws like the Fair Credit Reporting Act. The author also notes that requiring access …

In These Challenging Times: Why Practice Analytics Are Your New Best Friend, Patrick Houlihan Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article argues that financial success is crucial for a thriving dental practice in today's competitive market, despite dentists often lacking sufficient business management training. It introduces practice analytics as a fundamental tool to optimize operations and maximize profitability, enabling dentists to scrutinize outputs, evaluate performance, and implement necessary changes to achieve their goals. Key metrics to track include the number of active patients, monthly collection numbers, the doctor-to-hygiene collection ratio (ideal 65% doctor, 35% hygiene), collection per active patient per year, profit, and various overhead expenses (staff, facility, lab, supply, administrative). The author emphasizes that regular tracking of these …

Plan And Track Your Performance For A Better Practice, Michelle C. Dziurgot

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This editorial stresses the critical need for every dentist to track key performance indicators such as production, profit, and overhead to ensure long-term practice success. It advocates for setting and monitoring daily, weekly, and monthly goals for both doctor and hygiene departments. Strategies for effective practice management include regular team meetings, optimizing supply audits to eliminate unused materials, and planning for seasonal patient fluctuations to keep overhead in sync. The author also emphasizes the importance of providing proper training for the dental team, such as the MDA’s X-ray certification or the Certified Dental Business Professional designation, to enhance patient communication, …

Mda Services: Practice Acquisition: 6 Ways Mda-Endorsed Companies Can Smooth The Way, Reva Darling

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article outlines six key ways MDA-endorsed companies can facilitate dental practice acquisitions, especially with a high number of dentists retiring. These services include: 1) Real estate valuation and lease review by Bridge Commercial Realty. 2) Acquisition loans and lines of credit through Bank of America Practice Solutions, which offers specialized healthcare financing and discounts for MDA members. 3) Expert assistance with transitioning insurance credentials and PPO network negotiations from PPO Negotiation Solutions to ensure optimal reimbursement. 4) Establishing financial safeguards through Prosperident's Owner Proactive Strategies to prevent embezzlement. 5) Reliable dental gas services from Compass Cryogenics. 6) Solutions for …

The New Professional: Exploring Careers Other Than Clinical Dentistry, Amrita Patel Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This "New Professional" column explores alternative career paths for dentists who find clinical practice unfulfilling. It encourages reflection on personal interests and highlights various options within the dental field and beyond, such as dental education, research, practice management, dental sales, product development, and public health dentistry. The article emphasizes that a dental degree provides a strong foundation for diverse roles that still contribute to the well-being of others. It suggests that transitioning to a new career path requires an open mind and a focus on one's passions and values. Entrepreneurship is also mentioned as a potential avenue.