Health and Medical Administration Commons^™

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 …

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 …

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 …

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: 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.

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 …

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.

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 …

Peer Review/Ethics: How Can Our Office Be More Inclusive Of Transgender Patients?, Debra Peters Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

In this professional ethics article, Dr. Debra Peters of the ADA’s Council on Ethics, Bylaws and Judicial Affairs addresses the need for dental teams to be more inclusive of transgender patients, emphasizing the challenges faced by transgender and gender non-conforming (TGNC) individuals in accessing dental care. The article recommends providing training and resources for dental teams, highlighting the importance of first impressions and effective communication during patient interactions. Practical suggestions include incorporating affirmed name and gender options in registration forms, ensuring appropriate language in interactions, and addressing insurance claim discrepancies. The column promotes creating a respectful environment and cites the …

Staff Matters: Employees On Military Leave, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This Staff Matters column addresses an employer's concern about an employee being deployed for military service and explores options for managing the situation. The response emphasizes the application of the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act of 1994 (USERRA) and the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). The article highlights that USERRA, applicable to all employers regardless of size, mandates unpaid leave for military service members and outlines re-employment rights. Practical suggestions for coping with the absence, including hiring temporary staff and having a clear policy in the employee handbook, are provided. The column also hints at future articles …

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 …

Lower The Risk For Medical Emergencies, Christopher J. Smiley Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Clinicians focus on health and safety for our patients. The editorial highlights the importance of cultural competence in dentistry to mitigate the risk of medical emergencies. Reflecting on a recent CE program, Dr. Smiley underscores the need for proactive emergency preparedness, emphasizing detailed protocols and hands-on training. The article advocates for thorough patient screening, incorporating three questions presented by Dr. Mitchel Gardiner in an article in this month’s issue, addressing patient-specific health considerations and consulting with healthcare providers. The editorial concludes by stressing the significance of risk reduction through comprehensive assessments, team training, and preparedness.

Dentistry And The Law: Responding To Internet Criticism And Hipaa Considerations, Dan Schulte Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This Dentistry and the Law column addresses the challenge of responding to online criticism as a healthcare professional, particularly dentists. The question involves a patient posting false and damaging information online, leading to concerns about reputation and the desire to set the record straight. The response outlines the limitations imposed by HIPAA on using patient information for such purposes and explores the legal complexities in pursuing recourse. The column advises against responding directly to negative online posts, emphasizing proactive reputation management through online advertising and patient testimonials.

J Mich Dent Assoc April 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 April 2022 issue, the reader will find the following original content:

• A cover feature “Protect Your Patients and Yourself: The Complete and Honest Medical History”
• A feature article “The Foundation for Dental Care: The Patient Interview and Dental/Medical Health History”
• A 10-Minute EBD “The Preferred Analgesia for Orthodontic Tooth Movement: Acetaminophen or NSAIDs?”
• News you need: an Editorial, a "Reminder about Antitrust Law", and regular department articles, …

News You Need: Reminder: What You Must Know About Antitrust Law, Dan Schulte Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This reminder emphasizes the critical importance for dentists, particularly members of organizations like the Michigan Dental Association, to understand antitrust laws and their implications. The U.S. Justice Department and Federal Trade Commission actively pursue antitrust violations among physicians and dentists. The article outlines key aspects of the Sherman Antitrust Act, emphasizing that joint activities among independent dentists that restrain competition may lead to violations. The concept of joint action and the restraint on competition are explored, with a focus on potential pitfalls, such as price-fixing and group boycotts. Dentists are urged to stay informed to avoid legal consequences.

Staff Matters: Attracting Qualified Candidates, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

In the current competitive job market, dental practices face challenges in recruiting qualified staff. This Staff Matters column explores strategies to stand out and attract candidates, addressing the impact of the "great resignation" and the projected growth in dental openings. Suggestions include offering part-time positions for increased flexibility, considering evening appointments, providing additional benefits like childcare support, attending to the practice's image through positive online reviews and marketing, and building a future workforce through partnerships with educational institutions.

Infection Prevention In Dentistry: Reaching Our “New Normal”, Karen K. Daw Mba, Cecm, Marie T. Fluent Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article addresses the evolving landscape of infection prevention in dentistry amid the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the dynamic nature of guidance and standards. It explores historical perspectives, including the transition from "wet finger dentistry" to universal precautions and standard precautions. The focus then shifts to the regulatory considerations and the relevance of transmission-based precautions in the context of COVID-19. The Hierarchy of Controls is discussed, encompassing elimination, substitution, engineering controls, administrative control, and personal protective equipment. Respiratory hygiene, personal protective equipment, and infection prevention practices are compared between the pre-COVID era and the current landscape, emphasizing the importance of adapting …

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.

Advocacy Spotlight: Ada Lobbyist Conference Highlights Critical Advocacy Issues, Neema Katibai Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The ADA Lobbyist Conference highlighted crucial issues in dentistry, including Medicare reform, teledentistry, workforce concerns, and insurance challenges. State dental associations collaborated on building advocacy partnerships and shared successful grassroots engagement strategies. Medicare reform discussions focused on the ADA's opposition to Plan B inclusion and the impact of constituent outreach. State associations addressed Medicaid reform, emphasizing personal stories to convey the need for change. Teledentistry legislation and insurance company relationships were also key topics. The insights gained will shape the MDA's advocacy strategy for 2022.

Dentistry And The Law: Can I Be Reported To The Data Bank In Connection With A Billing Dispute?, Dan Schulte Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This Dentistry and the Law column addresses a dentist's concern about being reported to the National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB) during a billing dispute. The dentist questions the validity of such a report, considering no issues with treatment quality are raised. The response emphasizes that adverse actions based solely on billing practices may not be reportable to the NPDB. Additionally, it clarifies that a dental plan administrator may not be eligible to make a Data Bank report, offering guidance on informing the plan about rights and potential contestation.

Headquarters Report: A Look Back, A Step Forward, Karen Burgess Cae

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

In her Headquarters Report, MDA Executive Director Karen Burgess reflects on the dental landscape entering the third year of the COVID-19 pandemic, acknowledging the "new normal" with increased demand for services, staff shortages, and supply chain challenges. Despite uncertainties, the Michigan Dental Association (MDA) maintained membership numbers better than expected, with a slight decrease in market share. The report emphasizes the importance of member value, highlighted by a favorable Net Promoter Score (NPS) and positive feedback on MDA benefits. It also discusses efforts in diversity, equity, and inclusion, along with successful advocacy initiatives influencing oral health in Michigan.

Dentistry And The Law: Network Leasing Arrangements And Their Effect On Fees, Dan Schulte Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Dentists entering network leasing arrangements often face uncertainty about fees due to the lack of transparent fee schedules. While leasing companies aim to connect dentists with insurers and plans, the absence of clear payment information poses challenges. Dentists may receive varying amounts for the same services, impacting financial predictability. The article emphasizes the importance of understanding contract terms, obtaining fee schedules, and monitoring patient volume to assess the arrangement's overall benefit.

J Mich Dent Assoc December 2021

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Every month, The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association brings news, information, and features about Michigan dentistry 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:

• Two cover stories presenting perspectives from both ends of the practice life continuum: “Starting Your Practice Life” and “Preparing for Retirement”.
• A feature article, “What Happened in Vegas Became ADA Policy”.
• A feature article, “An Oversight Corrected: 2020 MDA Life Members Recognized”.
• The 2021 Author/Title Index to the Journal of the Michigan Dental Association. …

J Mich Dent Assoc November 2021

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Every month, The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association brings news, information, and features about Michigan dentistry 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:

• Cover stories with a “Focus on Advocacy: Helping Dentistry Succeed”, including “MDA Dental PAC: What It Is and Why It Matters “, “2021 Advocacy Success — and More to Come “, and “Dental Programs Maintained in 2021-22 State Budget”.
• A feature article on “The Anishinaabe Dental Outreach Program”.
• A feature article, “How Your Website and …

J Mich Dent Assoc October 2021

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Every month, The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association brings news, information, and features about Michigan dentistry 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, “Welcoming Colleagues from Different Practice Models”.
• A feature article from the Journal’s DEI series, “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Perspectives from an LGBTQ Dentist”.
• A feature article, “Congratulations, 2021 MDA Life Members!”.
• News you need, Editorial and regular department articles on MDA Foundation activities, Dentistry and the Law, Staff Matters, and component news. …

J Mich Dent Assoc September 2021

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Every month, The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association brings news, information, and features about Michigan dentistry 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 with “Reports from the Dental School Deans”, Dr. Mert Aksu and Dr. Laurie McCauley.
• A feature article from the Journal’s DEI series, “Building a Culturally Competent Practice”.
• A feature article, “Disability Insurance: 10 Things You Need to Know”.
• News you need, Editorial and regular department articles on MDA Foundation activities, Dentistry and …

J Mich Dent Assoc August 2021

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Every month, The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association brings news, information, and features about Michigan dentistry 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 “Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Dentistry: Understanding the MDA’s Perspective”.
• A feature article, “Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Dentistry: Its Impact on Oral Health — You Can Make a Difference!”.
• A feature article from the Journal’s DEI series, “Welcoming Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion with Students Considering Careers in Dentistry”.
• A feature clinical article …

J Mich Dent Assoc July 2021

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Every month, The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association brings news, information, and features about Michigan dentistry 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 “Measuring Outcomes to Improve the Quality of Clinical Care”.
• A feature article, “Is Your Office Winning or Losing the Race? You Won’t Know Without Measurement”.
• The feature article, “The DQA and Quality Measurement in Dental Programs and Plans”.
• News you need, Editorial and regular department articles on MDA Foundation activities, Dentistry …

J Mich Dent Assoc June 2021

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Every month, The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association brings news, information, and features about Michigan dentistry 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 “Team-Based Treatment of Oral Cancer: The U-M Experience”.
• A feature article, “Dental Management of the Head and Neck Cancer Patient Treated with Radiation Therapy: Update 2021”.
• A feature article on “Understanding Cyber Threats and the Risk they Pose to Your Practice”.
• "A Train-the-Trainer Education Model and Rural Dental Opioid Prescribing Outcomes”, a …