Download The MDS and Dental Schools Address Opioid Abuse Prevention

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CONNECTION
K e e p i n g Yo u C o n n e c t e d w i t h Yo u r S o c i e t y
March - April 2016
House and Senate Pass Opioid Legislation
In early March, the Massachusetts House and
Senate compromised on a final version of An Act
Relative to Substance Use Treatment, Education
and Prevention. Governor Charlie Baker applauded
both chambers and stakeholders for all their work
on this critical issue and signed the bill into law on
March 14, 2016. Throughout the process, Massachusetts Dental Society (MDS) governmental affairs
staff met with legislators and committee staff to
ensure the views of the dental profession were
considered every step of the way to passage. Furthermore, the MDS and the Massachusetts dental
school deans partnered with Governor Baker and
his administration to develop core competency pain
management requirements for dental students.
(See article below.)
The Senate passed its bill on October 1, 2015,
Governor Baker filed his proposal in October 2015,
and the House approved its bill in January 2016.
The original proposal limited practitioners to prescribing a maximum of a 72-hour supply of opiates,
and providers would have been required to attain
5 hours of CE in pain management each renewal
cycle. Also, the first proposal required prescribers
or their designee to access the Prescription Monitoring Program (PMP) prior to prescribing an opiate.
Through the MDS’s efforts, the final legislation—which takes effect immediately—allows
providers to prescribe a 7-day supply maximum of
opiates to an adult patient the first time and always
only a 7-day supply maximum for minor patients.
Furthermore, the legislation removed the minimum
CE hour requirement for pain management. The
legislature kept the original provision of checking
the PMP before issuing opiate prescriptions.
Please look out for further updates from the
MDS on this legislation.
Key Issues
Governor Baker’s Proposal
Final Version
First-time opiate
prescription limit
Maximum of a 72-hour supply of an
opiate to a patient the first time the
practitioner prescribes an opiate to
that patient
Adult patients being prescribed an
opiate for first time: 7-day supply
maximum
Minors being prescribed an opiate
at any time: 7-day supply maximum
CE hours
Requires at least 5 hours of CE in pain
management each renewal cycle
No CE hour minimum in pain
management
Accessing
the PMP
Requires every practitioner to use the
PMP prior to prescribing an opiate
Requires every practitioner to use the
PMP prior to prescribing an opiate
The MDS and Dental Schools Address Opioid Abuse Prevention
Photo courtesy of Governor Baker’s Press Office
On February 11, 2016, the MDS joined Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker
in announcing an agreement reached with the deans of the state’s three dental
schools to introduce training for opioid abuse prevention and management
into the schools’ core curriculums. Prior to the press conference, Governor
Baker met privately with Dean Bruce Donoff of Harvard School of Dental
This Issue
Page 4
Meet Our New
Affinity Partners
MD_Connection MarchApril 2016.indd 1
Page 5
Requirements Change for
OJT Dental Assistants
Medicine (HSDM), Dean Huw Thomas of Tufts University School of Dental
Medicine, Dean Jeffrey Hutter of Boston University Henry M. Goldman School
of Dental Medicine, MDS President-Elect Dr. Raymond Martin, Massachusetts
Executive Office of Health and Human Services Secretary Marylou Sudders,
Massachusetts Department of Public Health Commissioner Dr. Monica Bharel,
Massachusetts General Hospital Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon and HSDM
Faculty Member Dr. David Keith, MDS Executive Director Dr. Robert Boose,
and MDS Director of Dental Practice Ellen Factor. During this closed meeting,
MDS representatives detailed the MDS Prescription Abuse Prevention office
displays initiative. Governor Baker was pleased to see organized dentistry
taking positive steps in curbing opioid abuse in the Commonwealth.
During the press conference, MDS member Dr. Keith called it a “unique
opportunity” for the dental schools and organized dentistry to “come together
to educate our dentists and advanced dental trainees in the correct prescribing of opioids,” including alternative pain management techniques and proper
referral practices to other disciplines.
Continued on page 3
Page 5
Delta Announces
Two New Plans
Page 6
Midlevel Provider
Legislative Update
3/23/2016 11:17:55 AM
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE—Robert E. Boose, EdD, CAE
Don’t Be Stranded
on a Dental
Practice Island!
One of my staff members recently attended the American Student Dental Association (ASDA) Annual Session in Dallas. She was briefing me on the show and
program, and shared some interesting information. One piece in particular was
a course she scouted called “What Really Happens After Dental School?”
Basically, the course covered the personal experiences of the presenter
(a young practice owner) and the issues and challenges he faced. His dental
school and regional licensure exams are completed. But now what?
Young clinicians are faced with many challenges as they begin their careers.
There is no doubt that the practice of and the business of dentistry are changing
rapidly. New clinicians will practice at least 30 to 35 years. In order to maintain
clinical skills and practice management effectiveness, they must continue to
keep current and aware of the regulatory and legislative requirements for dental
practice. They need to start out on the right foot as they continue down the
dental career road.
As you know, our new MDS Strategic Plan’s number one goal is “to help
all members succeed.” Beginning practices and acquiring effective business
management skills are the keys to future success. These young clinicians are
faced with different practice model opportunities. They now have the option to
become a member of organized dentistry or not. One would think that every new
clinician would naturally join organized dentistry in his or her initial career years.
In fact, the annual membership fee is structured to allow the annual dues to step
up gradually over a five-year period.
The surprising fact is that nationally, we are noticing that there is a significant nonrenewal of young clinicians after year 1 and year 2. This drop-off will
hurt organized dentistry over time. We need to focus more on identifying the root
causes of this drop-off.
The American Dental Association (ADA) is developing five different member
personas. I will examine each of these in future articles. I do want to reference
the non-member dentist persona here and list some of his/her characteristics:
•
•
•
•
Likes the practice of dentistry and patient interaction
Likes independence and has low need for professional involvement
Thinks advocacy on insurance, legislative, and regulatory bodies is important
Does not believe organized dentistry is important but needs to see value in
association membership
• Is not highly concerned with ensuring that the next young clinician generation will be successful
Interestingly, my staff member reported that the presenter was asked by the
attendees if he belonged to organized dentistry and if so, why? He responded that
he did. Why? Because he felt that he did not want “to practice on an island.” He
did not want to be alone among his profession. He wanted to know that there were
resources working for him and available to him for whatever issues or challenges
he might face. That feeling of security and accessibility to maintain his professional
awareness while focusing on growing his practice was extremely valuable.
Coincidentally, during a recent Leadership Institute meeting at the MDS,
students were asked to prepare a short presentation based on the question
“Why is membership in organized dentistry important?” A variety of responses
seemed identical to that of the ASDA presenter. One of our attendees responded,
“You’re all alone if you are not part of your profession.”
We in organized dentistry have our work cut out for us. We are beginning
to learn more about the various membership personas and begin to target each
more effectively. More importantly, every ADA member has a responsibility for
keeping our membership numbers strong. We need to engage young clinicians
immediately so they are not alone on a dental practice island.
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Massachusetts Dental Society
FIRST DISTRICT TRUSTEE REPORT
Judith Fisch, DDS
Licensure portability is an important matter to dental professionals,
particularly to those pursuing initial licensure or attempting to relocate
to another state. At a recent American Dental Education Association
(ADEA) meeting, American Dental Association (ADA) and ADEA leadership
initiated a joint request that state dental boards accept all commonly
used dental licensing examinations for the purpose of obtaining dental
licensure. Although examinations by the five clinical test administration
agencies for dentistry are generally recognized to be substantively equivalent, approximately 20 state dental boards are restrictive regarding what
state licensure exams they will accept. This has serious consequences for
many new dentists, especially those on military deployment. The ADA—in
accord with its policy that it is unnecessary duplication to require a candidate seeking licensure in different states to demonstrate competency on
various examinations—encourages/urges state dental boards to accept
all recognized examinations for licensure. Last week, a letter from ADA
leadership was sent to each of the 20 state dental boards that continue
to be restrictive in this matter.
Additionally, at our January meeting, the ADA Board of Trustees
amended three strategies under our strategic plan “Members First 2020.”
It is the Board’s responsibility to regularly monitor the strategies and
change them as needed.
The three new strategies address directing our message to members, filling the pipeline of new members by focusing on students and
new dentists, and simplifying and standardizing how all levels of the ADA
interact with members. The three new strategies are:
2.1Focus the message to connect with individual members, potential
members, and key market segments
2.2Design unique member outreach and benefit programs targeting
dental students and new dentists
6.1Simplify, standardize, and rationalize how each level of the ADA operates and delivers programs and services and interacts with members,
acting in the best interests of the member rather than the organization
In addition, the Board designated these three as priority strategies for
the coming two years. This does not mean we will ignore the remaining
strategies, but rather, we will focus attention and resources on the three
priority strategies. We fully expect our focus on these particular strategies
will help us drive toward success.
There was also a strategic discussion on the dental therapist issue
throughout the country, with highlights on the active political problem
in New England. We reviewed existing data on the effectiveness and
economic viability of the model, as well as ADA policy relating to therapists. The purpose of the discussion was to bring forth the most current
information available to us and to view this issue through the lens of the
member, the public, and oral health, excellence, integrity, and science. It
was a beneficial discussion, and I believe we need to continue the conversation stressing the degree to which New England is embedded with
this issue. We need to continue to explain our challenges so that other
leaders throughout the United States are aware of the immediacy we
face and the decisions we may be faced with.
I continue to enjoy the initial learning phase as Trustee and traveled
to Chicago for my second Board meeting in mid-March. My door is
always open, so feel free to contact me with any concerns, ideas, or
suggestions at [email protected].
CONNECTION
© Copyright 2016 Massachusetts Dental Society
3/23/2016 11:17:55 AM
Membership
TUSDM Students “Lunch &
Learn” About the MDS
MDS President-Elect Dr. Raymond Martin spoke to 150 Tufts University
School of Dental Medicine (TUSDM) students during a Lunch & Learn presentation on Friday, February 26, 2016. Dr. Martin informed students of all
the benefits the MDS has to offer them both while in dental school and after
graduation, including legislative representation, student events at the Yankee
Dental Congress, and MDS staff support. The MDS hosts several Lunch &
Learn presentations at the dental schools throughout the year and will be
holding Signing Days for fourth-year students to continue their MDS/ADA
memberships after graduation this spring.
Family Fun Day at the
New England Aquarium
From left: TUSDM students Veronica Ebrahimi, Agatha Kao, Aekta Patel, Sonia Chugh,
MDS President-Elect Dr. Raymond Martin, Holly Fadie, Mandy Alamwala, and former
MDS Manager of Member Engagement Lisa Davis
Call for Volunteers
The MDS New Dentist Committee
will host a first-of-its-kind family
day for MDS dentists and their
families at the New England
Aquarium in Boston on Saturday,
April 30, 2016, from 12:00 noon
to 4:00 p.m. Dentists are invited to
bring their spouses, partners, and
children to explore the Aquarium
exhibits and enjoy a networking, family-friendly lunch in a private
tent overlooking Boston Harbor. For more information and to
register, visit massdental.org/familyfun.
Volunteers are at the heart of the work done
by the MDS. Because of the contributions
of volunteers’ time, talent, and expertise,
the MDS is able to provide the essential
information and tools, vibrant community,
and exceptional experiences that we all value
so highly. Together, we accomplish incredible
things and move the profession forward.
Now is the time to step up and help the
MDS. There are a variety of opportunities to help—everything from
the Yankee Dental Congress to membership. We need your skills, passion,
and unique perspective to build an energetic, inclusive, and innovative
corps of volunteers to lead our profession. If this is an opportunity that
interests you, please contact the MDS or go to massdental.org/volunteer
or massdental.org/getinvolved.
The MDS and Dental Schools, continued from page 1
This agreement is expected to
directly impact the approximately 2,300
students studying dental medicine in
Massachusetts. The group also discussed methods to ensure that current
practicing dentists are utilizing modern
prescribing practices. Dr. Martin reiterated how the MDS is constantly working
on tailoring CE programs specifically
for the profession of dentistry. Read
Governor Baker’s press release on this
initiative, as well a document detailing
the dental schools’ plans for updating
their core curriculum to include opioid
prescribing, at massdental.org/
rxmisuse.aspx.
Be a dental office that supports
efforts to prevent the abuse and misuse
of prescription medications by posting
the MDS Prescription Abuse Prevention
display in a prominent area of your waiting room. You may order complimentary
replacement pads for your display
while supplies last at massdental.org/
resourcecenter.aspx.
LEADERSHIP
INSTITUTE
massdental.org/leadership/institute
The Massachusetts Dental Society Leadership Institute provides the tools and insight needed
to improve your leadership effectiveness and help you respond to a rapidly shifting landscape.
Get Empowered
Expand conflict resolution and negotiating techniques, and sharpen problem-solving skills.
•
•
Connect with like-minded people and gain valuable networking opportunities.
•
Improve your delegation skills and build a team with confidence and trust.
•
Discover how to organize and run effective and successful meetings.
Apply Online Today!
March - April 2016
MD_Connection MarchApril 2016.indd 3
Application
Deadline:
May 31, 2016
www.massdental.org
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Practice Management Q&A
Question:
Answer:
Why Is Informed Consent Required?
Massachusetts state law requires that patients provide informed
consent before dental treatment is commenced. The purpose of informed consent is to ensure that the patient has a full understanding of proposed treatment
and can make a relevant decision based on the information provided by the dental professional. There are two types of consent: general informed consent and
specific informed consent. Both forms of consent must be obtained in writing,
signed and dated by the patient or legal representative prior to treatment.
Procedures covered by general informed consent include basic restorative
or preventive procedures, and permission to bill the patient’s insurer, if any. The
general informed consent may remain in effect until treatment is terminated
by the dentist and/or the patient and the patient is no longer regarded as a
patient of record.
Specific informed
consent applies to
specialized treatment,
including, but not limited to: administration of anesthesia other than local
anesthesia; periodontal, endodontic, orthodontic, prosthetic, and oral and
maxillofacial procedures; and specialized treatment for pediatric patients,
including behavior management techniques.
The MDS Dental Practice Committee recommends that when in doubt
if a service requires specific informed consent, always err on the side of
caution and obtain it. As a member benefit, the MDS has created sample
informed consent forms for members. View and download these forms at
massdental.org/checklists.
Taking Stock
To keep a handle on your practice’s expenses, ensure proper
product supply, and avoid overages and potential expiring
items, the MDS Dental Practice Committee encourages
dental offices to take inventory on at least a semiannual
basis. Be sure to add a full inventory check to your
reoccurring items checklist to stay on top of your stock!
See more Dental Practice Insights at massdental.org/
insights.
Two New Affinity Partners Announced
In order to continue to provide additional value to our more than 5,200 members, the Massachusetts Dental Society carefully selects partners to assist dentists
with managing the business side of dentistry. The MDS Affinity Partner Program was formed to help members save money and increase office efficiency, all
while offering exceptional customer service. The MDS is pleased to announce two new Affinity Partners: Robert Fine & Associates and Singular Payments, LLC.
Singular Payments
Established 45 years ago in Worcester,
Robert Fine & Associates offers a full
suite of financial planning services. The
family-run business is led by CEO and
Founder Bob Fine and his sons, President
Randy Fine, LUTCF, and Director Matthew
Fine, LUTCF. They are joined by the firm’s
11 advisors.
“We are excited to partner with the
Massachusetts Dental Society and be able
to offer the most personal service available
in conjunction with cutting-edge technology to help all members of the dental
community build financial stability and
security to deliver financial independence,”
says Randy Fine.
As a Robert Fine & Associates client,
you will be able to see your insurances,
legal documents, assets, liabilities, cash
flow, and even spending habits in one
place, aggregated daily. A financial scorecard monitors progress toward goals. For
more information, contact Randy Fine
at (508) 820-9939 or visit the company
online at robertfineassociates.com.
The only custom flat-rate payment processor in the
industry for small- to medium-sized businesses, Singular
Payments, LLC, is the exclusive MDS Affinity Partner
for merchant services. Payment processing for dental
professionals is a cornerstone of Singular Payments’
business, and its custom flat-rate model has resulted
in more than $1 billion in processing volume in just its first 6 years in business. Singular Payments’
approach, which encompasses educating business owners about the fees associated with typical payment processing services so they can understand and better appreciate the company’s simple, no-risk,
flat-rate model, also boasts Singular Payments’ revolutionary Savings Guarantee. The Singular Savings
Guarantee stipulates that if a merchant does not save what they were initially promised, Singular Payments will not only write a check for the difference, but it will fix the problem so the merchant realizes
the committed savings benefits.
Singular Payments also recently extended its endorsement arrangement with the Connecticut State
Dental Association (CSDA) for two years. “We are committed to bringing to this market not only tangible
cost savings, but also tremendous overall value through enhanced customer support, merchant education, and our simplified approach to payment processing billing statements,” says Vaden Landers, chairman and managing partner of Singular Payments. “It all adds up to a world-­class credit card processing
experience, and we are grateful for the opportunity to partner with member service organizations like
the MDS and CSDA, who share a similar vision and philosophy for customer care.”
In addition to flat-rate payment processing services, Singular Payments also provides educational
content throughout the year to arm businesses with knowledge relating to merchant services so they
can continue to make the best choices for their business. Access to the latest educational content can
be found on the Singular Payments’ website under Merchant Education, where there are weekly blogs,
bi­monthly newsletters, press releases, webinars, videos, and credit card scam alerts. Contact Singular
Payments’ Vaden Landers at (877) 829-7255 or visit singularpayments.com for more information.
To learn more about the MDS Affinity Partner Program, visit massdental.org/atyourservice.
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Massachusetts Dental Society
CONNECTION
3/23/2016 11:17:56 AM
Change in Requirements for
On-the-Job-Trained Dental
Assistants
The Board of Registration in
Dentistry (BORID) has revised
its requirements for on-the-jobtrained (OJT) dental assistants.
Previously, there was a requirement that dental assistants who
were on-the-job trained or who
could not provide proof of completion of an accredited dental assisting
program needed to show that they were employed by a currently licensed
Massachusetts dentist for initial licensing and renewal. While all dental
assistants are still required to practice under the supervision of a licensed
dentist, on March 2, 2016, BORID voted to eliminate the requirement that
an OJT dental assistant provide a letter from a Massachusetts licensed
dentist stating that the dentist currently supervises the OJT as a condition
for licensure. BORID also updated the licensure renewal form, removing the
question “If you obtained your license as an OJT dental assistant, has your
supervising dentist changed?”
Dental assistants who have satisfied the other requirements for licensure, including CPR and infection control courses and proof of radiology
certification (if they will be taking radiographs), are now eligible for a dental
assisting license. The current dental assistant license renewal cycle runs
from November 1, 2015, through October 31, 2017.
Once a dental assistant is licensed, the license will allow him or her
to work in any dental office in Massachusetts under the supervision of a
licensed dentist, but is no longer tied to a specific dental office/dentist.
Read the revised BORID regulations at mass.gov/eohhs/gov/departments/
dph/programs/hcq/dhpl/dentist/licensing/.
Delta Dental’s New Plans:
What You Need to Know
Delta Dental of Massachusetts has just announced two new programs,
Preferred Options PPO and Medicare Options Network; the latter supports
the Medicare Advantage Plan. Each of these programs requires you to
execute a new provider contract, and each has a unique fee schedule that
differs from your Delta Dental PPO Plus Premier product fee schedule.
Participation in these programs is optional. You should carefully review the
materials that Delta has mailed all participating providers and decide if
these programs will work for your practice. Note that Delta will continue
to have the Premier products.
If you are not sure if you’ve received Delta’s letter, you can read it
online at massdental.org/insuranceupdates.aspx.
Participating in Delta’s New
Medicare Advantage Plan
Delta’s new Medicare Advantage Plan is being offered to Medicare-eligible
consumers. While this program does not include dental benefits, it does
provide its members with prescription drug benefits. Massachusetts
licensed dentists interested in participating must be enrolled in Medicare
at least as an ordering/referring provider in order to participate. If you
currently participate in Medicare through your participation in the Delta
Dental PPO plan, you will be required to complete a separate provider contract with Delta Dental for the Medicare Advantage Plan. In addition, you
must have elected to opt-in to Medicare at least as a referring provider in
order for your patients to receive prescription drug benefits. (You can use
enrollment form 855i or 855o.) If you opt-out of Medicare, patients will not
receive reimbursement from the Delta Medicare Advantage Plan or any
other Medicare Advantage Plan.
How do you determine which form to use to opt-in or opt-out? This
table from the American Dental Association breaks it down for you.
CMS Extends Deadline Again
for Medicare Part D Enrollment
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has once again
extended the deadline for dentists to either enroll as a Medicare Part D
“ordering/referring provider” or opt-out of the program. The deadline is now
February 1, 2017, but the CMS urges providers to submit their Medicare
enrollment applications or opt-out affidavits to their Medicare administrative
contractors before August 1, 2016. While this is the fourth time the CMS
has extended the registration deadline, Dr. Ronald Riggins, Chair of the ADA
Council on Dental Benefit Programs, told the ADA News that dentists “have
to take action” and that neglecting to opt-out of the program will not count
as an opt-out. For more information, visit massdental.org/medicare.
Enroll as a Enroll as Ordering/
Opt-Out
Provider
Referring Provider Use affidavit and
Use form 855i
Use form 855o
private contracts
Part D prescription
medications
covered
✓
✓
Can be reimbursed
by Medicare
Advantage Plan
✓
✓
Ordering/referring
privileges
✓
✓
Payment for
Medicare-covered
services
✓
✓
✓
Source: American Dental Association
New MDS Logo Available to Members
The Massachusetts Dental Society has a fresh new look! Proudly display the new MDS logo and membership
web buttons on your practice communications and website to demonstrate your commitment to the profession
and build confidence in the eyes of your patients. Logo and web button files are available to all MDS members
in good standing at massdental.org/logo.
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www.massdental.org
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3/23/2016 11:17:57 AM
Dental Hygiene Practitioner Update
New Information Makes Even Stronger Argument
Against Midlevel Provider Legislation
There is legislation currently pending on Beacon
Hill that would create a new level of practitioner:
a dental hygiene practitioner. Supporters contend
that, with additional training, dental hygienists
should be allowed to expand their responsibilities
to include such procedures as filling cavities and
extracting teeth. What’s the reasoning for this new
level of practitioner?
Proponents argue that every year, many patients do not see a dentist and, therefore, there are
not enough providers in the Commonwealth. This
flawed argument ignores all other factors that prevent patients from seeing a dentist. For instance,
when MassHealth surveyed members who had
not had a dental visit in the previous three years,
only 16% of respondents replied that they “could
not find a dentist that takes Medicaid members.”
The proposed solution does nothing for the 84% of
respondents who said such things as “no time/too
busy,” “did not think I/my child had dental benefits,”
or “fear of the dentist,” among others.
When it comes to solving barriers to dental
care in Massachusetts, the easy way out is to
suggest adding new providers. In 2009, the state
created another type of hygienist, the public health
dental hygienist (PHDH). This practitioner could go
out into the community and perform hygiene services,
with a referral back to a dental home. Unfortunately,
this model has not met expectations. In 2013, the
number of billing PHDHs plateaued with approximately
34 in the state. Furthermore, of the roughly 1.8 million
MassHealth dental subscribers, PHDHs only saw
approximately 10,000 unique subscribers in 2014.
This equates to seeing 0.5% of the entire MassHealth dental population. Finally, and possibly most
importantly, from 2011 through 2015, an average
of 58% of patients visiting a PHDH did not visit a
general/pediatric dentist in the 6 months following
their hygiene visit. Based on this data, sending a
hygienist into the community does not engender a
continuum of care that is necessary to ensure the
long-term oral health of our MassHealth population.
We need to learn from the failures of the PHDH
program and come up with something better than a
Band-Aid solution. In the Commonwealth, we face
far greater barriers than the number of providers.
We live in an age when scientific data proves the
importance of oral health to overall health. Yet
many of our laws still treat oral health differently
from medical health. We urge our lawmakers to
break down the barriers affecting the 100%, not
just the 16%.
To learn more about the MDS legislative
agenda, contact Kevin Monteiro, MDS assistant
director of government affairs, at (508) 449-6053 or
[email protected], or visit massdental.org/
advocacy.
Health Insurance Trends—Spring 2016
By George Gonser, MBA, CDHC, LIA
Mr. Gonser is CEO-Partner of MDSIS–Spring Insurance Group.
Recently, April 2016 health insurance rates became available for hundreds of
MDS dental practices doing business with MDSIS–Spring. The Massachusetts
Division of Insurance had approved rate increases for the small-business
Massachusetts health insurance carriers ranging from 1% to 30%-plus for
businesses renewing in the April–June 2016 timeframe. The overall base
increase is in the 7% range across all carriers in Massachusetts. There are
multiple contributing factors for the rate increases, but many point to the
less-than-profitable 2014 and 2015 fiscal years for the state’s insurance
carriers, increased utilization—especially around prescription drug costs—
and the negative effects of the health care reform law, in particular the risk
adjustment provision in the law.
The risk adjustment provision allows health insurance carriers with
healthier members to pay health insurance carriers with sicker members.
This controversial measure has resulted in millions of dollars being paid to
insurance companies who insure the “sickest members.” As a result, these
newfound “costs” are passed along to small businesses, in addition to any
changes to the business census. The increased premiums are in addition to
changes in benefits. Many plans are adding additional co-payments on top of
deductibles for services such as MRIs, outpatient surgery, and hospitalization,
as well as prescription drug programs going to a 4- or 5-tier benefit structure.
All of this is not welcome news to dental practices or the employees for
whom they provide insurance. So what can be done?
• Review all plans and set a strategy for future years—look to the Spring
Cooperative as an option to reduce overall health insurance costs.
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Massachusetts Dental Society
• Consolidate across multiple site practices—there may be advantages
in plan offerings and pricing that may come with the consolidation of
business structure.
• Investigate health savings account (HSA) plan options coupled with an
HSA savings account. The savings in plan cost may fund some or all of
the deductibles.
• Investigate and integrate wellness components across all benefit plan
types. This will stretch your benefits further and improve presenteeism at
your dental practice.
• Look to new telehealth and urgent care facilities vs. employing emergency
rooms. These facilities, such as CVS Minute Clinics, are cheaper and
better time-sensitive alternatives for many basic services.
• Incorporate enhanced benefits such as hospitalization, critical illness, and
other voluntary insurance offerings to help round out the employee benefits
portfolio. These benefits can help to mitigate the rising deductibles seen
in health insurance plans in 2016 and beyond.
The above is just a preliminary overview of some of the strategies and
services that need to be considered for your practice’s employee benefits
program. More than ever, it is essential that you work with an experienced,
licensed, and dental-related broker/consultant such as MDSIS–Spring to help
guide you through all the employee benefit and financial service changes and
opportunities. Call our offices today at (800) 821-6033 or visit us online at
springgroup.com.
CONNECTION
3/23/2016 11:17:57 AM
DHWC Hosts Wellness
Fast Track at Yankee 2016
“Dentist Health and Wellness” was the theme of this year’s Yankee Dental
Congress Fast Track. The MDS Connection spoke with Dr. Alan Budd, Chair of the
Dentist Health and Wellness Committee (DHWC), about the Wellness Program and
the direction the Committee is taking in its efforts to support MDS members.
You held a full day of classes at Yankee with no mention of teeth?
That’s right! The spotlight was on dentists taking care of themselves, which we
all know is essential to taking care of others. Around 350 dentists and dental
team members participated over the course of the day—an impressive turnout considering the number
of choices Yankee offers. More and more dentists seek to find a balance between their personal and professional lives. The wellness concept resonates strongly, especially with younger dentists of the Millennial
generation, who are less willing to sacrifice quality of life to advance their careers.
Attendees learned about various aspects of stress and how it contributes to professional burnout,
lower productivity, chronic pain, and mood changes. The afternoon sessions focused on how to manage it.
(Hint: The answer is mindfulness.) It was amazing to see the room filled with people practicing chair yoga!
We were extremely fortunate to have ADA Executive Director Kathleen O’Loughlin give the keynote
address. Her presentation included a personal story of how addiction has touched her family twice. It was
very moving.
In the past, didn’t the DHWC deal exclusively with drug and alcohol problems?
“Health and wellness” is a holistic approach designed with 100% of our membership in mind. Everyone
can benefit from staying informed about healthy lifestyle choices, and we hope our message reduces the
likelihood of someone heading down a bad path. After all, addiction is the end of a spectrum. For every
person who gets hooked, far more engage in risky substance use and misuse. There are red flags, but
as yet no way to accurately predict who will become addicted. For those who find themselves struggling
with chemical dependency, our Confidential Dentist Assistance Program (CDAP) is a voluntary, nonpunitive
program designed to help overcome and recover from addiction.
In a way, this is basic prevention, something dentists understand. Are they
susceptible in spite of their education?
Ironically, the very assets that help us excel as professionals—intelligence, perfectionism, and diligence—
can be liabilities when it comes to asking for help. Our world might be crumbling, but we think we can
handle it. We tend to ignore the advice we give others.
What other health issues are common among dentists?
The most commonly reported physical condition is chronic musculoskeletal pain. Additionally, anxiety and
depression rates are higher for dentists than for the general population. Often, these physical and mental
conditions overlap. Chronic stress is the common denominator. Unfortunately, some dentists self-medicate
with alcohol and other drugs to relieve their symptoms—whether they have ulcers or anger.
Attend a Health and
Wellness Program
The practice of dentistry can be physically,
mentally, and emotionally demanding. It is
important to develop coping strategies to
address the increasing demands. Learn
how by attending our upcoming Health and
Wellness event:
Mind Your Soul:
Mindfulness and Meditation for Dentists
An Interactive Program and Dinner
Massachusetts Dental Society
Thursday, June 16, 2016
6:00 p.m.
The program is complimentary, but registration is limited to 50 attendees. Don’t miss
out—Register today at massdental.org/
mindyoursoul.
Other Wellness Opportunities
Beginning in fall 2016, Districts will have
the opportunity to offer similar Health and
Wellness Programs, which will be sponsored
by the MDS Dentist Health and Wellness
Committee (DHWC). Check your local District
calendar to view program offerings.
Wellness Leaders Wanted
If you have a suggestion for a wellness
program to offer MDS members or have
an expertise in a related discipline, please
contact DHWC Chair Dr. Alan Budd at
[email protected] or (800) 468-2004
or MDS Director of Dental Practice Ellen
Factor at [email protected] or
(508) 449-6028.
Access Committee Hosts Interactive
Program at Children’s Museum
MDS Past President and North Shore District Trustee Dr. John Fisher demonstrates
proper toothbrushing technique with a youngster at the Children’s Museum.
March - April 2016
MD_Connection MarchApril 2016.indd 7
For the third year in a row, the MDS Access, Prevention, and Interprofessional
Relations Committee held an interactive dental exhibit at the Boston Children’s
Museum. The event, which was held on March 4, 2016, helped to provide
dental education to parents and children. Each exhibit visitor was offered the
opportunity to “Ask a Dentist” a question about oral health, and learn about
the importance of fluoride and age-one dental visits. Attendees were also
able to access information on mouthguards and see brushing demonstrations
by the volunteer dentists. Children could visit with a dental volunteer while
experimenting with the Dr. Drill ’N Fill Play-Doh set. The kids were treated to
a special guest appearance by the Tooth Fairy, and all attendees were given
a toothbrush and toothpaste, which were generously donated by Colgate.
Dental volunteers who staffed the event included Dr. Joy Kasparian-Federico
(Chair of the Access Committee), MDS Past President and North Shore District
Trustee Dr. John and Mrs. Joy Fisher, MDS Secretary Dr. Janis Moriarty, Dr.
Katy Vitiello, Dr. Badrieh Edalatpour, Dr. Elaine Naves, and dental student
Siddhi Mehta.
www.massdental.org
7
3/23/2016 11:17:58 AM
YANKEE INSTITUTE
PREPARE TO TAKE THE DANB CDA EXAM
Registration: 4:30 pm Seminar: 5:00 - 8:00 pm
Wednesday, May 4, 2016
504$70 504A $100 24TH ANNUAL
STEVE STONE
BREAKFAST
AND LEARN
DON’T MAKE WALLS, BUILD
BRIDGES! DENTISTRY AND
PATIENTS ON THE AUTISM
SPECTRUM
Sunday, May 1, 2016
Luann Ellsessar, RDH, practicing
clinical hygienist and instructor,
Quinsigamond Community College
DANB and CDA are registered certification marks of the Dental Assisting
National Board, Inc. (DANB). This course is not reviewed or endorsed by DANB.
LECTURE • 3 CE Hours
DENTURES AND IMPLANTS: BALANCING THE ART, SCIENCE,
AND BUSINESS OF DENTISTRY
Friday, May 6, 2016
506
506A
Seminar: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
MDS Dentist/Auxiliary Member
Non-MDS Member
AUDIENCE
• Dentist
Complimentary light lunch provided
HANDS-ON • 6 CE Hours
The Hiossen Implant Company grant has been applied to this program.
SELLING OR PURCHASING AN EXISTING DENTAL PRACTICE
$47 501
MDS Dentist/Auxiliary Member
(includes breakfast)
Friday, May 13, 2016
Registration: 9:30 am Seminar: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
513
$30
MDS Dentist/Auxiliary Member
513A$100 Non-MDS Member
502
$25 Student
(includes breakfast)
AUDIENCE
• Assistant • Dentist • Hygienist
Kristi Seibel, DMD, diplomate of
the American Board of Pediatric
Dentistry and a private practitioner
in Sudbury
The following grants have been
applied to this program:
$199 $299 Registration: 8:00 am Seminar: 8:30 am - 3:30 pm
Jeffrey C. Hoos, DMD, maintains a
private practice in Stratford, CT, and
lectures nationally.
Location:
The Verve Crowne Plaza Hotel
1360 Worcester Street
Natick, MA 01760
AUDIENCE
• Assistant
• Hygienist
Pamela Donovan, CDA, RDH,
dental assistant instructor, Blackstone
Valley Technical High School
Registration: 8:00 am
LECTURE • 3 CE Hours
MDS Dentist/Auxiliary Member
Non-MDS Member
AUDIENCE
• Dentist
Caitlin O’Rourke, development
officer, Bank of America Practice
Solutions™
Andrew D. Schwartz, CPA, founder
and managing partner of Schwartz &
Schwartz, PC, in Woburn
Tyler Russell, practice transition
consultant, Henry Schein Dental
Complimentary continental breakfast and light lunch
provided by Bank of America Practice Solutions™
LECTURE • 3 CE Hours
The Bank of America Practice Solutions™ grant has been
applied to this program.
SIGNIFICANT EFFICIENCY GAINS FROM IMPLEMENTING AN
ALL-TISSUE LASER INTO YOUR PRACTICE, WITH A SPECIAL
FOCUS ON CO2 AT 9.3 µm
Friday, May 20, 2016
520
520A
$150 $250 Registration: 8:30 am Seminar: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
MDS Dentist/Auxiliary Member
Non-MDS Member
David Fantarella, DMD, maintains
private practices in Hamden and
North Haven, CT.
AUDIENCE
• Dentist
Complimentary continental breakfast and lunch
provided by Convergent Dental, Inc.
HANDS-ON • 6 CE Hours
The Convergent Dental, Inc. grant has been applied to this program.
8
MD_Connection MarchApril 2016.indd 8
The Massachusetts Dental Society is an ADA CERP Recognized Provider. ADA CERP is a service of the American Dental Association
to assist dental professionals in identifying quality providers of continuing dental education. ADA CERP does not approve
or endorse
individual
nor
it Timply
Massachusetts
Dental
Society courses or instructors, C
O Ndoes
NEC
I O N acceptance of credit hours by boards of dentistry.
Concerns or complaints about a CE provider may be directed to the provider or to ADA CERP at ada/org/goto/cerp.
3/23/2016 11:18:00 AM
CLASSIFIEDS
EQUIPMENT TO BUY OR SELL
EQUIPMENT FOR SALE–Well-maintained Pelton
& Crane dental chair with overhead light and
A-dec delivery unit, GE X-ray unit. Call for details:
(617) 461-6656.
KODAK/CARESTREAM & SCHICK INTRAORAL X-RAY
SENSOR REPAIR. We specialize in repairing Schick
CDR & Kodak/Carestream RVG 5100 & 6100 dental
X-ray sensors. Repair and save thousands over
replacement cost. We purchase old/broken sensors:
www.repairsensor.com or (919) 924-8559.
GENDEX & DEXIS INTRAORAL X-RAY SENSOR
REPAIR. We specialize in repairing Gendex & Dexis
dental X-ray sensors. Repair and save thousands
over replacement cost. We purchase old/broken
sensors: www.repairsensor.com or (919) 924-8559.
OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE
COMPREHENSIVE DENTAL PRACTICE IN BEVERLY
seeks driven, charismatic, and empathetic general
dentist to join a growing team in our brand-new
practice. Our mission is to perfect the oral wellness
experience. We are committed to establishing
an unsurpassed depth of honesty, trust, and
connection with our patients in a team-oriented
and collaborative work culture. The growing staff
is young, hardworking, and motivated to create
a stellar practice! The right candidate must be
comfortable with diagnosis and treatment planning
all aspects of dentistry, and be able to explain and
present treatment to patients. Must be positive,
thoughtful, and capable of clearly communicating
with patients, as well as all members of the team.
Two days per week to start with the intention to work
toward full-time. Must be able to work 1 evening
and 1 Saturday per month. Salary: guaranteed base
with production-related commission. Please send
your resume and cover letter to careerinfomdp@
gmail.com if you are interested in joining our team.
FULL-TIME ASSOCIATE WANTED IN SANDWICH—
Potential for partner in two years. Two to three years’
experience, including molar endo, with willingness to
become sedation certified. Great earning potential,
with the opportunity to work where you vacation.
Please contact [email protected].
GENERAL DENTIST—We are looking for an
experienced and confident doctor to join our
team. We are a multispecialty dental practice with
locations in Waltham, Lexington, and Needham
areas. All candidates must have a degree in dentistry
from an accredited dental program, a current valid
license to practice dentistry in Massachusetts, with
a minimum of two years’ experience in a dental
office. Seeking a full- or part-time associate who
has strong clinical skills, exceptional communication
skills, and the desire for professional growth with the
practice. Candidate should be proficient in all forms
of dentistry, including operative, crown & bridge,
and removable prosthetics. We prefer a candidate
looking for a long-term commitment including equity
position option. Contact MDS Box 1382.
GREAT DENTIST WANTED—Sturbridge, Attleboro,
and East Harwich with $$$$ signing bonus:
Midwest Dental is seeking great dentists to lead our
Mondovi Dental practices in Sturbridge, Attleboro,
and East Harwich. These positions offer excellent
compensation and benefits, a great work-life
balance, and unlimited opportunity for professional
development. Our support team handles the
administrative details, allowing you to lead your
team while focusing on dentistry. If you possess a
passion for providing quality care and are looking
for a rewarding career opportunity, please contact
Brad Smith at (715) 590-2467 or [email protected].
FLEXIBLE LOCUM TENENS OPPORTUNITY—
Midwest Dental is seeking experienced dentists
to fill daily/weekly/monthly locum tenens needs to
cover leaves and extended vacations. Perfect for
dentists wanting to pick up extra hours. We offer
competitive pay and give you complete freedom to
work as many locum sessions as you’d like. May
involve travel with overnight stays. Typically includes
32–36 hours/week when needed. Opportunities
are available at practices across the country.
Contact Carly Rufledt at (715) 225-9126 or
[email protected].
MULTISPECIALTY PRACTICE in Framingham seeking
a part-time orthodontist. Please email resume and
cover letter to [email protected].
CARING AND COMPASSIONATE DENTIST NEEDED.
Onsite Dental Care is the premier provider of
mobile dental care to residents of assisted-living
communities. We are looking for a dentist to join
our team using state-of-the-art equipment and
technology. We provide access to full-service
dental care for residents of premium assistedliving communities across New England. We are
a fee-for-service provider with minimal exposure
to insurance, flexible schedules, trained dental
assistants, and a trained community relations
manager. Compensation is a percent of production
with minimum guarantee. Targeting the fastestgrowing demographic segment. CE credits
reimbursed based on approval. Contact Fran
Maxner at [email protected].
EXCITING OPPORTUNITY FOR DENTISTS to provide
children with quality dental care in schools throughout
Massachusetts. No evenings or weekends. Email
resumes to [email protected].
OFFERING AN ASSOCIATE DENTIST AN
OPPORTUNITY to earn extra income without
overhead. Our practice provides opportunities
in oral surgery, including: implants; fixed and
removable prosthetics; and traditional and rotary
endodontics. Our dentist is a cum laude graduate
of Tufts who is published in implantology at Harvard
University, Brown University, and Tufts University.
Please contact MDS Box 1379.
PROVIDENCE COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTERS, INC.
(PCHC), in Providence, RI, is seeking an experienced
dentist to provide preventive and restorative services
in dentistry, promoting optimum oral health. Reports
to the director of clinical services. Graduate of
an accredited school of dentistry and licensed in
Rhode Island. Maintain professional education and
certification as mandated by specialty board or
state regulation. Experience in pediatric dentistry.
Experience in primary care setting and bilingual
(Spanish preferred). PCHC is the largest FQHC in
Rhode Island. Our eight neighborhood-based clinics
are NCQA Level 3 patient-centered medical homes
that serve a multicultural population. Please apply at
http://pchcproviders.org/.
PART-/FULL-TIME GENERAL DENTIST WANTED.
We are a very busy general practice in Salem.
The office is well equipped with four operatories
(modern equipment, latest software, digital X-rays,
etc). Position is for three days per week (part-time)
with possibility for full-time in the near future.
Long-term commitment with the flexibility to work
additional days in the future would be ideal. Please
submit your cover letter and resume for potential
employment to [email protected] or call
(617) 899-2718.
OFFICE IN SOMERVILLE SEEKS PERIODONTIST
who is experienced with various treatments,
including implant placement and extractions.
Available Wednesdays and/or Saturdays. Office
is located 1 mile from Tufts University and 1.5
miles from Assembly Row. Please email resume to
[email protected].
PART-TIME PROSTHODONTIST OR GENERAL
DENTIST wanted to join our established
March - April 2016
MD_Connection MarchApril 2016.indd 9
multispecialty group practice in New Bedford;
6,000-plus patients. Four ops, paperless, digital
X-rays w/Pano, using Dentrix software. Very strong
referral base. Position to start immediately. Please
email your resume to [email protected].
PROGRESSIVE MULTISPECIALTY PRACTICE with 16
locations throughout the state of Connecticut is
seeking well-motivated general dentists. Salary/
incentives, 401(k), medical and malpractice
insurance, Visa sponsorship with option of
partnership. Please email resume to abbas.
[email protected].
JOIN THE ELITE DENTAL TEAM. Motivated young and
energetic dentist needed for our high-quality private
dental practice (ARID | Newton-Wellesley Dental
Group) in the town of Wellesley. This practice is the
perfect place for those who want to build their future
in one of the best towns to work and/or raise a family.
If you desire the freedom of xxx% clinical autonomy
and opportunities for ownership, we may have
something great to offer you! Simply email us your
CV to [email protected] to get an invitation to visit us.
PEDIATRIC DENTIST as full-time or part-time
associate leading to partnership. We are a wellrespected office in the Berkshires of Western MA.
Must be skilled, ethical, gentle, and caring, as well
as a board-eligible/-certified pediatric dentist. New
grads welcome. We are state-of-the-art, chartless,
and digital pan/ceph. Four-day workweek including
some hospital dentistry if desired. Excellent benefits
and base salary. Email [email protected].
GENERAL DENTIST needed part-time south of
Boston 2–3 days a week. Must be willing to work
evenings. Please contact us at autumndentalcanton@
gmail.com.
PART-TIME GENERAL DENTIST WANTED (with
potential for full-time). Busy general practice
is in search of a fourth dentist for our Groveland
and Beverly offices. We are looking for an honest,
conscientious, competent, detail-oriented, friendly
dentist. We have all of the latest equipment (digital
X-rays, paperless, CEREC, etc.) and pride ourselves
in treating all patients with quality care. Please
submit your cover letter and resume for potential
employment to [email protected].
PART-/FULL-TIME DENTIST WANTED for a wellestablished busy multispecialty practice in the heart
of Somerville. We are looking for an experienced
individual who is professional, motivated, and
detail-oriented. Please submit your resume for
potential employment to [email protected] or call
(617) 953-9647.
GENERAL PRACTICE IN WALTHAM seeking general
dentist to join team. Position is for three days per
week (part-time) with possible future option for fulltime. Start date for March 1, 2016. Days: Monday,
Tuesday, Wednesday/Thursday (alternating). Salary
is negotiable. Please respond with CV/resume and
references to [email protected].
GENERAL DENTIST (DIGHTON, MA)—Expanding
dental practice is looking for an associate to work
1–2 days per week. Newly designed office space
is state-of-the-art. Our demographics support
continued growth. A candidate willing to make
a long-term commitment and with the flexibility
to work additional days in the future would be
ideal. In addition to strong clinical skills, an upbeat attitude and positive outlook are required.
Please email [email protected] for
more information.
DENTIST NEEDED for two days a week to start with
option for more hours. State-of-the-art Worcester
office with digital X-rays, lasers, and CEREC. Need to
be able to connect with patients and be comfortable
with treatment planning difficult cases. If you do not
www.massdental.org
want to be busy, this is not the office for you. Please
forward resume to [email protected].
MISSION TRIP OPPORTUNITY—Dentists, hygienists,
and assistants needed for African mission trip.
Chance of a lifetime to tour Tanzania and work in
excellent clinic. Leaving July 6, 2016, from Boston.
Booking soon; https://youtu.be/B5ThBjNcS4Q.
Contact Dr. Kapinos at (413) 297-3440 or email
[email protected].
ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT COORDINATOR—Want
to work in a challenging, upbeat environment?
Do you want a career instead of just a job? Do
you enjoy working with people and changing their
lives? If so, then this is the job for you! Our modern,
progressive orthodontic practice seeks a reliable,
outgoing, sophisticated, and motivated professional
for a full-time orthodontic treatment coordinator
position (preference given for prior orthodontic
experience). The treatment coordinator’s primary
responsibility is taking care of people, getting new
patients into treatment, and building relationships
between patients, referring doctors, staff, and the
community. Must have excellent multitasking skills
and pay attention to details to be successful in
this fast-paced practice. Other duties should be
anticipated as the practice continues to grow. A
flexible schedule is required as some training needs
to happen during off-hours, but this is generally a
Monday–Thursday position, 7:30 a.m. –5:30 p.m.
Our practice strives to make each patient’s visit the
best experience of their day. If you are a team player
interested in becoming a part of our dynamic team,
please email your cover letter, resume, and salary
requirements to [email protected].
GENERAL DENTIST—Office in Franklin is looking
for a full-/part-time associate. Work in a fast-paced
digital paperless office with a very supportive
staff and enjoy what this beautiful area has to
offer. Generous offer and benefits available.
Please contact Sarah at (508) 541-7400 or email
[email protected].
ORTHODONTIST OPPORTUNITY AVAILABLE. The
Holyoke Health Center is seeking candidates
for a full-time position as an orthodontist in the
Department of Dentistry. The orthodontic clinic has
access to a large pool of underserved patients with
diverse needs and backgrounds, and receives strong
support from federal and state organizations. The
orthodontic clinic currently has five modern chairs
in an orthodontic suite available for patient care,
integrated electronic dental and medical records,
digital panoramic and cephalometric radiographic
capability (Orthopantomograph OP 300), an
orthodontic lab, a Dolphin Imaging System, and an
Itero Scanner. Two orthodontic dental assistants are
assigned daily for care. The scope of orthodontic
care at the Holyoke Health Center currently provides
treatment to more than 200 active patients and
initiates approximately 40 new comprehensive or
interceptive cases per month. Applicants must have
an orthodontic certificate from a CODA-accredited
program and be on track for certification by the
American Board of Orthodontics. Teaching of the
pediatric dental residents at the health center is also
required. Salary and benefits (membership dues,
malpractice insurance, continuing education, and
vacation and sick leave) are extremely competitive.
Student loan repayment through HRSA is available.
Interested individuals should send a cover
letter, curriculum vitae, and three references to:
Dr. Stanley A. Alexander, Chief Dental Officer,
Holyoke Health Center, 230 Maple Street, Holyoke,
MA 01041, email [email protected], or
call (413) 420-6257.
REVERE ENDODONTIST. We are looking for a
part-time endodontist for a busy general practice.
Please email your resume to Dr. Boschetti at info@
mboschetti.com.
9
3/23/2016 11:18:01 AM
CLASSIFIEDS
PART-TIME ASSOCIATE DENTIST needed for busy,
mature family practice in Winchester. Hours are
Mondays and Wednesdays, 12 noon – 7:30 p.m.,
and at least three Saturdays a month, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Solid restorative skills and patient-centered focus
a must; 3–5 years’ experience preferred. Email
or fax your CV to [email protected] or
(781) 729-1945.
SEEKING DENTIST/CLINICAL DIRECTOR to provide
professional, high-quality dental treatment and
education to a broad range of patients. The dentist/
clinical director also oversees all clinical operations,
including patient care, supervision of clinical staff,
compliance with regulatory agencies/requirements
(e.g., OSHA, DPH, JCAHO), development and implementation of policies and procedures governing
all aspects of clinical operations, infection control,
quality assurance, equipment maintenance, patient
complaints, and incident reporting. Qualified
applicants please forward your resume and cover
letter to [email protected] or mail to Community Health
Connections, Inc., 326 Nichols Road, Fitchburg, MA
01420. Refer to job listing #68.
ORAL SURGEON WANTED—SOMERVILLE. Highincome opportunity for oral surgeon one day a
week in multispecialty practice; mostly wisdom
tooth extractions all day. 50% of production, with
average production of $9K per day. Yes . . . great
opportunity, we just lost our long-term oral surgeon
to unexpected permanent maternity needs, and need
an oral surgeon immediately. Call (617) 872-4499
to discuss.
PEDIATRIC SPECIALIST OR FAMILY DENTIST—An
excellent opportunity. We are looking for a pediatric
specialist and/or family dentist who loves working
with kids to become part of our dedicated and
fun-loving team. Position is open to new or recent
graduates, as well as experienced clinicians. Our
practice has been providing dental care to the
children of the beautiful Connecticut River Valley
of Vermont and New Hampshire for more than 38
years. The office is fully digital, paperless, and
set in a wonderfully comfortable, relaxed, and
low-stress environment that is ideal for providing
compassionate and quality dental care. We currently
have a large, established, and continually growing
patient base, so earnings potential is limitless
working on a production basis. Position is for a
part-time or full-time associate with an exciting
opportunity to discuss ownership possibilities.
Please email your cover letter, CV, and any questions to [email protected] so you may
fulfill your dream of making a wonderful living and
perhaps owning your own already established and
successful practice in an absolutely stunning part
of New England.
KOOL SMILES has oral surgeon, pediatric dentist,
orthodontist, and dental/medical anesthesiologist
full-time and part-time opportunities available.
At Kool Smiles, we offer generous compensation
and outstanding benefits, including: 401(k), PTO,
malpractice, health and life insurance, continuing
education, licensing reimbursements, and visa/
permanent residency sponsorship. For more
information, contact Emily Platto at eplatto@
benevis.com.
KOOL SMILES ASSOCIATE DENTIST—FT/PT/
multisite opportunities in AR, AZ, CT, DC, GA, IN,
KY, LA, MA, MD, MS, NM, OK, SC, TX, VA. Up to
$20K sign-on bonus plus relocation. Earn up to
$650 daily guarantee or percentage of collections.
Contact a recruiter today at www.koolsmilesjobs.
com/connect.
KOOL SMILES ASSOCIATE DENTIST—FT/PT/
multisite opportunities in Louisiana. Up to $20K
sign-on bonus plus relocation. Earn up to $650
daily guarantee or percentage of collections. We
also offer outstanding benefits, including: 401(k)/
10
MD_Connection MarchApril 2016.indd 10
PTO, malpractice, health and life insurance, CE,
licensing reimbursements, and visa/permanent
residency sponsorship. Contact Renee Baron at
[email protected].
GENERAL DENTIST office in the Berkshires is
looking for a full-/part-time associate. Work in a
state-of-the-art digital paperless office with a very
supportive staff and enjoy what this beautiful area
has to offer. We provide a wide variety of services,
including digital impressions, implant placement,
Invisalign, and facial esthetics. Email your resume
to [email protected].
PROVINCETOWN—Full- and part-time positions
available for a general dentist at a state-of-the-art,
team approach, customer service practice. Offering
CEREC Omnicam, CT imaging, digital paperless,
implant placement, Invisalign, facial esthetics,
endo, and perio. Great opportunity to enjoy a
beautiful resort town, utilize amazing technology,
and work with an amazing team. Email resume
to [email protected]. Visit our website at
www.ptowndentalarts.com.
PART-TIME GENERAL DENTIST WANTED (with
potential for full-time). Our state-of-the-art, modern
dental office is seeking a part-time (with growth to
full-time) general dentist to join our team. Our office
provides 110% patient satisfaction and delivers
exceptional quality of dental care. We are looking
for an experienced individual who is professional,
motivated, and detail-oriented and has exceptional
doctor-patient bedside manner. We are in search
of someone who can contribute to working in an
office that has been built upon providing a relaxed,
comfortable pleasant experience while delivering
optimal dental treatment. Please submit your cover
letter and resume for potential employment. We will
be scheduling interviews ASAP. We look forward to
hearing from you soon. Please call (617) 847-1400
or email [email protected].
HOLYOKE—Family dentist and/or pediatric dentist.
Progressive children and family dental practice
looking for a highly motivated and energetic
associate to join our practice in Holyoke. Parttime or full-time position with long-term potential.
Opportunity is open to new or recent graduates, as
well as experienced clinicians. We offer a competitive
base salary along with a reconciliation structure and
a full benefit package—including health insurance
(BCBS), malpractice insurance, professional dues,
sponsorship, paid time off, and more. Will sponsor
for green card. $20K sign-on bonus for experienced
candidates. Interested individuals should email a
resume to [email protected].
ENDODONTIST NEEDED for busy general dentistry
offices. Part-time and full-time available. Large pool
of general dentistry patients for internal referrals.
Earn high compensation and work in a fast-paced,
friendly environment. Call Alex at (617) 823-2111
or email [email protected].
ORAL SURGEON NEEDED for busy general dentistry
offices. Part-time and full-time available. Large pool
of general dentistry patients for internal referrals.
Earn high compensation and work in a fast-paced,
friendly environment. Call Alex at (617) 823-2111
or email [email protected].
OPPORTUNITIES WANTED
BILINGUAL GENERAL DENTIST—I am a current
general practice resident at Hartford Hospital
seeking a full-time/part-time employment opportunity as a general dentist in the Northern MA
or Southern NH area. I will be completing my
residency in June 2016. I am a graduate of the
University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine
and earned my bachelor’s degree from UConn.
I am fluent in English, Spanish, and American Sign
Language. Resume and references are available
upon request. Please contact janirislopezdmd@
gmail.com for more information.
LOCUM
TENENS/FLEXIBLE
OPPORTUNITY—
Passionate for patient care and want a flexible
schedule? We seek experienced dentists to fill
daily/weekly/monthly locum tenens needs to cover
leaves and extended vacations. Perfect for dentists
wanting to pick up extra hours. May involve travel
with overnight stays. Typically includes 32–36
hours/week when needed. Competitive pay. You
have complete freedom to work as many or as
few locum sessions as you’d like. Opportunities
available with Midwest Dental (WI, MN, IA, IL,
KS, MO), Mountain Dental (CO, NM), and Merit
Dental (PA, OH, MI). Contact Carly Rufledt at
(715) 225-9126 or [email protected].
Learn more about us at www.midwest-dental.com,
www.mountain-dental.com, or www.mymertidental.
com.
EXPERIENCED PERIODONTIST, personable and
patient-care-oriented, very experienced in multiple
implant systems, GBR, socket preservation,
and grafting. I seek 1–2 days per week in your
strong hygiene and prevention-oriented office.
If interested, contact MDS Box 1378 or email
[email protected].
GENERAL DENTIST, FRAMINGHAM—We are
seeking a highly motivated, team-oriented associate
to join our well-established family practice. We are
looking for someone with a positive attitude, gentle
chairside manner, and solid clinical skills. Beautiful
practice in a great location. Please contact MDS
Box 1372.
PRACTICES AND OFFICES FOR SALE OR RENT
GENERAL PRACTICE #MA-1251—Franklin County.
Five operatories. Average collections $565,593.
Small, family-oriented community. Many dental
specialists in surrounding area. For details, contact
Dan Baccari at (508) 435-7678, x223, d.baccari@
nptdental.com, or www.nptdental.com (National
Practice Transitions).
ENDODONTIST WANTED for well-established
group specialty practice with multiple locations.
Opportunity is open to new or recent graduates,
as well as experienced clinicians. Individual must
have good communication skills and should be
highly motivated and personable. Ideal candidates
would be career-oriented with aspirations of fulltime associate and future partnership. Interested
individuals should email resume and cover letter to
[email protected].
GENERAL DENTIST NEEDED for a well-established,
multi-doctor family practice in Methuen. Full- or
part-time. Flexible hours. Good opportunity. If
interested, please respond to MDS Box 1371.
Massachusetts Dental Society
BOARD-CERTIFIED PERIODONTIST seeking a
position in Boston/MA or surrounding areas (1–2
days a week). Trained and experienced (5-plus
years) in nonsurgical and surgical treatment,
including implant, sinus, GBR, mucogingival plastic
surgery, and third-molar extractions. Good work
ethics and interpersonal skills. CV and references
are available upon request. Please contact
[email protected] or call (617) 990-6987.
GENERAL PRACTICE #MA-1252—Essex County.
Three operatories. Average collections $590,868.
North Shore practice. Well-established patient base
with longevity. High visibility. For details, contact
Dan Baccari at (508) 435-7678, x223, d.baccari@
nptdental.com, or www.nptdental.com (National
Practice Transitions).
GENERAL PRACTICE #MA-1273—Essex County.
Four operatories. Average collections $778,323.
Long-established. Key location. Modern office.
Many recent upgrades, including computers.
Call immediately—Many interested buyers! For
details, contact Dan Baccari, NPT (National Practice
Transitions), at (508) 435-7678, x223, d.baccari@
nptdental.com, or register for free on our website
(www.nptdental.com) as a member for immediate
updates.
PRACTICE FOR SALE, Hampden County, MA—
Mature, expanded, and newly renovated in the last
five years. Four fully functional treatment rooms
(two dentist, two hygiene) with two additional
rooms fully plumbed/built-out. Practice situated
in 2,300-sq.-ft. building owned by seller and also
for sale. Digital intraoral sensors as well as digital
panographic X-ray. Six hygiene days per week with
limited insurance penetration with little current
marketing—lots of room for growth. Contact
Tyler Russell at [email protected] or
(617) 447-8760. #MA155.
PRACTICE FOR SALE, Barnstable County, MA—
Four-op general practice. Full range of services,
including prosthetics and oral surgery. Intraoral
camera, imaging system, laser unit, digital X-ray,
panographic X-ray, patient education software,
and Eaglesoft management software. 2013 GR
$1.399M. Contact Henry Schein Professional
Practice Transitions representative Tyler Russell at
(617) 447-8760 or [email protected].
#MA122
PRACTICE FOR SALE, Central MA—Periodontic
practice. Consistent revenue in excess of $800K.
No competition in the immediate area. Close to
four major interstates; strong hygiene base. Seller
maintains a satellite (leased space) and owns the
main location building, which is shared. Contact
Henry Schein Professional Practice Transitions
representative Tyler Russell at tyler.russell@
henryschein.com or (617) 447-8760. #MA144.
PRACTICE FOR SALE, North Shore–Cape Ann—
High-end, highly profitable general practice on
Boston’s North Shore. Six ops with room for
expansion. Location owned by seller in desirable
North Shore location on major intersection in town.
All new equipment, digital, CAD/CAM, in-office
milling. Revenue approaching $2M. Please contact
Henry Schein Professional Practice Transitions
representative Tyler Russell at tyler.russell@
henryschein.com or (617) 447-8760. #MA141.
PRACTICE FOR SALE—Perfect opportunity for the
entrepreneurial dentist. Three locations on Boston’s
South Shore with combined revenue of $1.7M. All
dentists (associates and owner) will stay post-sale
to work the practices. Lots of growth potential.
For details of this opportunity, please contact
Henry Schein Professional Practice Transitions
representative Tyler Russell at (617) 447-8760 or
[email protected]. #MA124, #MA125,
and #RI103.
DENTAL OFFICE/OFFICE SPACE for lease adjacent
to Norwood Center; 2,800-sq.-ft. space ideal for an
orthodontist or endodontist. Multispecialty practice
with perio/OS, pedo, and pros/GP exists in same
building. Build-out required, room divisions present,
three restrooms, could encompass 7 ops. Three
months rent-free available during build-out. Space
located in prime location by the U.S. Post Office,
Norwood Bank, Bank of America, and Norwood
Hospital. Please call (617) 308-1049.
NEW ENGLAND PRACTICE TRANSITIONS—Maine:
Mid-Coast–3 ops, nice office, gross $600K+, RE
avail. Massachusetts: North Shore–Perio, 3 ops plus
1 extra plumbed, gross $1M, office condo avail.
Mid-Cape–3 ops, 1 extra plumbed, gross $313K,
RE avail. Williamstown–5 ops, well-established,
gross $906K, RE avail. Merrimack–Great 1st or 2nd
practice, 3 ops, well-established, great location,
gross $325K, RE avail, with business tenant.
Weymouth–Great 1st or 2nd practice, 2 ops, wellestablished, gross $236K, RE avail. New Hampshire:
Hanover area–Office condo, 7 ops, gross $1.6M, RE
CONNECTION
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avail. North Conway–Profitable and efficient office,
5 ops, gross 1.34M, RE avail, with rental apartment
above. Vermont: Burlington area–Great location,
established practice, 3 ops, gross $465K, lease.
St. Albans–Well-established, 3 ops, gross $800K,
RE avail or lease. Call (888) 888-6506 or visit
www.newenglandpracticetransitions.com.
DENTAL OFFICES FOR LEASE in well-established,
high-visibility, elegant medical office building
in lovely Shrewsbury Center. 14,000-plus cars
pass the site daily; town population is 37,000
and growing. Two suites exist, one requiring
improvements (2,500 sq. ft.) and the other (1,800
sq. ft.) is complete, handsome, and ready to occupy.
This suite contains three exam rooms with sinks,
two offices, kitchen/staff room, reception, business
office, internal bathroom, and onsite parking. We’re
happy to make this space fit your unique needs
or pay a $5,000 finder’s fee should you refer us
to a party with whom a lease is completed. Visit
www.555main.work, call Geoff at (415) 786-0084,
or send an email to [email protected] for
photos/floor plan.
PEDO OFFICE SPACE TO SHARE IN SHREWSBURY
for noncompetitor. Three operatories and pan-ceph.
In medical complex adjacent to assisted-living
and nursing home. Must have own patients, staff,
phone, computer, insurance, and supplies. Perfect
for endo, perio, oral surgery, ortho, and geriatrics.
New grads welcome. Call (774) 270-0390 or
(508) 877-9753.
FOR SALE OR LEASE—6 Grove Street in Millbury,
MA, is a ±2,224-sq.-ft. dentist office with a
residential apartment on the second floor. The land
is 0.38 acres. There are three operatory rooms with
potential expansion. Visit www.kelleher-sadowsky.
com/property/6-grove-street-millbury/.
LOOKING TO START YOUR OWN PRACTICE?
Excellent location, two operatories, high visibility
giving great (drive-by business) advertisement.
You can do $300K just in hygiene and bleaching or Botox. Selling equipment and leasehold
improvements (spent $400K to build-out and
outfit). Located on Martha’s Vineyard. Excellent
set-up for specialist satellite or franchise location.
Call (508) 693-1001 for info.
LOWER CAPE GENERAL PRACTICE SEEKING
ASSOCIATE with phased buy-in. High gross, low
overhead. Real estate also available. Patient-centered
modern practice serving patients from Dennis to
Provincetown. Requires commitment to living in the
area and working to increase patient base. Initial
salary with phased buy-in to be negotiated. Send
email to [email protected].
MEDFIELD AREA—Excellent opportunity to get
started. Collections $235K, all specialties referred
out, 32% hygiene, three days, immediate growth,
great area. Contact Arthur Gordon, Northeast Dental
Counseling, Ltd., at (978) 774-2400 or arthur@
thedentalbroker.com.
DENTAL OFFICE FOR LEASE in Quincy, close to
Quincy center. Existing dental office 2,000 sq. ft.
available in May 2016, flexible leasing term. Has
been dental office for 40 years, all wired including
X-ray, and plumbed for dental chairs. Reception
desk, consult room, dentist office, clinical rooms
for four chairs, sinks and cabinets, staff room, and
lab place. 10-minute walk to MBTA. Please contact
(508) 361-9589 (cell) or [email protected].
COOLIDGE CORNER, BROOKLINE—Fully equipped
dental office sublease. Available based on daily,
weekly, or monthly. Ideal for specialist start-up or
practice relocate or wind-down. Two operatories.
Lease terms are negotiable. Please contact MDS
Box 1373.
SERVICES
DENTAL OFFICE MANAGER TRAINING—APRIL
24–28 IN BOSTON. Taught by the manager of a
$12M office. Small interactive workshop developed
so your manager can get hands-on training from
someone who has been there and is still in the
trenches. This course includes topics such as:
mastering HR, pay, and incentives; setting and
enforcing policies; goal setting–executive and
staff; implementing change; leadership skills; office
management automation; progressive management techniques; hiring, training, and termination;
handling overtime; scheduling; collecting money;
marketing your dental office; and creating an office
manual. It doesn’t matter if your office is large or
small, this training will help your manager learn the
skills and systems to move your office to the next
level. Contact Michelle at (403) 984-0111 or visit
dentalmanagementsecrets.com/management-101.
DENTAL CONSULTING—Guaranteed results Increase
profits and grow your practice while reducing your
management burden and stress. Onsite support
until you have reached your goals, with no longterm obligations or upfront cost. Free management
dashboard setup for all clients. Call (978) 291-7572
or visit www.rpmdentist.com to learn more.
BUYERS—We offer more than 25 years of dental
experience in the Greater Boston area to provide
you with confidential professional advice to help
locate and finance the proper practice for you, the
buyer. We will guide you and the seller through the
entire process, helping to structure a transition that
makes sense. Because a practice worth buying
should not have to be advertised, we have never
had to advertise a practice. We make every attempt
to show you only those practices that may be of
interest to you, and all fees are paid by the seller.
Please contact Arthur B. Gordon, Northeast Dental
Consulting, Ltd., at (978) 774-2400. Fax: (978)
750-1444. Email: [email protected].
SELLERS—If you are considering the sale of your
dental practice, we offer more than 25 years of
dental experience to provide you confidential expert
advice. We work closely with you, the seller, and your
professional advisors to help mediate a transaction
that makes good common sense while keeping
professional fees as reasonable as possible. We
take pride in the fact that we have never had to
advertise a practice in order to sell it. We have
sold some of the premier practices in the Greater
Boston area and we look forward to helping you.
Please contact Arthur B. Gordon, Northeast Dental
Consulting, Ltd., at (978) 774-2400. Fax: (978)
750-1444. Email: [email protected].
How to Reply to an Ad with a Private MDS Box Number
Reply to an MDS Box classified ad by emailing [email protected]
(include the Box Number as your subject line) or mail your response
to: MDS Connection Classified Box _________, Two Willow St.,
Suite 200, Southborough, MA 01745.
All responses will be promptly forwarded to the advertiser.
Save the Date
2017
CONNECT WITH US
January 25 - 29, 2017 | Exhibits: January 26 - 28, 2017
Boston Convention & Exhibition Center
yankeedental.com | 877.515.9071
F o c u s . Fa s t . F o r w a r d .
Presented by the MASSACHUSETTS DENTAL SOCIETY in cooperation with the Dental Societies of Connecticut, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont
March - April 2016
MD_Connection MarchApril 2016.indd 11
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Massachusetts Dental Society
Prsrt Std
US Postage
PAID
Permit # 6
Hudson, MA
Two Willow Street, Southborough, MA 01745-1027
(508) 480-9797 • (800) 342-8747 • Fax (508) 480-0002
www.massdental.org
Address service requested
SUCCESSFUL NAVIGATION 2016
January’s mild winter weather improved
the Yankee experience for the nearly
28,000 dental professionals who “navigated” their way into Boston’s Seaport
District for Yankee Dental Congress, the largest dental meeting in New England.
Yankee Dental Congress 2016 was held Wednesday, January 27–Sunday, January 31, 2016, at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center (BCEC). Dentists,
dental hygienists, dental assistants, office personnel, laboratory technicians,
and dental students came from all over New England—and beyond—to take
advantage of Yankee’s top-notch educational program of nearly 400 continuing
education (CE) courses.
In addition to the CE, people came to Yankee to see what’s new in dental
technology and products from the 450-plus exhibitors on the Exhibit Hall
floor and to exchange ideas with colleagues. In fact, exhibitor Bill Rimmer of
SockIt Gel called this the “best Yankee meeting ever,” saying it was, “because
of the great weather and great attendance.” The Exhibit Hall and classrooms
showcased computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM)
technologies, lasers, 3-D printing, and more. Several new programs, such as
the Product Navigator Live, CBCT Digital Imaging, and Practice Transitions,
were introduced this year to help pave the way for what the future of dentistry
might hold. Other educational highlights this year included the return of several
popular programs: Live Dentistry on the Exhibit Hall floor; Dental Office
Pavilion; Healthy Living Pavilion; Dental Team Playbook; RDH @ Yankee;
and the always-sought-after Minuteman Lectures.
The conference also featured its Second Annual Interprofessional Symposium: “Body on Fire: The Cause and Effect of Chronic Inflammation,” where
dental professionals learned more about how nutrition and stress-reducing
techniques can help with troublesome inflammation. Yankee also had a
successful collaboration with the American Academy of Implant Dentistry
(AAID) with two days of lectures and hands-on programs focused on esthetics,
guided surgery, and bone-grafting on cadavers. Dr. John Minichetti, speaker
and AAID past president, raved about the collaboration. “The AAID was proud
and honored to participate this year with Yankee,” he says. “The courses were
well-received and our cadaver hands-on program event was sold out! The AAID
looks forward to returning to Boston soon.”
This year, Yankee also brought back AADOM Day @ Yankee, a day-long
track co-presented by the American Association of Dental Office Managers
(AADOM) with courses targeted to dental practice management professionals.
Additionally, several MDS members took advantage of their MDS membership
and registered through Yankee’s rebate program, which offered free registration to member dentists who spent more than $2,500 on the Exhibit Hall floor
at Yankee 2015. Yankee offered the rebate program again at Yankee 2016; for
more information, visit yankeedental.com.
While the exhibition and educational activities are always the biggest
draw, Yankee 2016 also featured plenty of fun and entertainment. On
Thursday night, the BCEC Ballroom held two hours of music, dancing, drinks,
snacks, and prizes, with guests voting for their favorite singers at the “Voices
of Yankee.” On Saturday, the ballroom filled as dental students from around
New England squared off at the Seventh Annual American Student Dental
Association District 1 Debate. Congratulations to the University of New England
College of Dental Medicine team, who took the top prize.
Once again, Yankee was the place to catch up with friends, meet new
colleagues, discover ways to enhance your practice, earn CE credits, and
enjoy yourself. Please be sure to join us at Yankee Dental Congress 2017
on January 25–29, 2017, as we focus on the future of dentistry.
Congrats to Yankee 2016 Student Poster Winners
The winners of the Yankee Dental Congress 2016 Student Poster Sessions, which were held at Yankee on January 30, 2016, were recognized for their research and
presented their awards at the March 2 meeting of the American Academy of Dental Sciences and the International College of Dentists. The winners in each category were:
• Post-Doctorate/Graduate:
Zuhair Natto (Tufts University School of Dental Medicine)
“Effect of Mucograft® Seal on Post-extraction Ridge Preservation Using Bone Allograft: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial and Radiographic Evaluation”
• Pre-Doctorate/Undergraduate:
Megan Sullivan (Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine)
“The Root of the Problem: Occurrence of Typical and Atypical Periapical Pathologies”
• Hygiene: Nikhat Ali (Mount Ida College)
“Lyme Disease”
The American Academy of Dental Sciences and International College of Dentists grants were applied to this program.
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