Government Relations
Kay F . Thompson Outstanding Legislator Award
PDA was proud to present our Kay F . Thompson Outstanding Legislator Award to Sen . Scott Martin on April 25 at the state Capitol . This award recognizes legislators exhibiting an outstanding commitment through legislative action to improve Pennsylvanians ’ access to dental services and overall health .
PDA lobbyist Peg Kuskin and Dr . Peter Ross presented the award . We thank Sen . Martin for his steadfast support of the dental profession , his unwavering commitment to oral health and his efforts toward expanding access to dental care for Pennsylvanians .
His leadership in sponsoring and championing SB 1173 ( now Act 159 of 2022 ) in the Senate resulted in passing legislation that encourages dentists , dental hygienists and expanded function dental assistants to provide more charitable care by allowing them to apply up to three hours of pro bono clinical services to their respective Continuing Education requirements with the State Board of Dentistry .
“ Senator Martin has been a tremendous friend to dental patients and dentists in our Commonwealth ,” said Dr . Darleen Oleski , chair of PDA ’ s Government Relations Committee . “ He has seen the great need for oral health care , especially in our underserved communities . He respects the volunteerism of dentists who try to mitigate the pain of dental disease and understands that good oral health is a crucial component of our overall well-being .”
Some reminders about Act 159 of 2022 in case you missed them in our previous communications :
• The pro bono service counts toward the in-person CE requirement .
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This is the number of legislators in Pennsylvania .
And ?
Forging a relationship with your legislator ( aka being a contact dentist ) is the single best way to win legislative battles in Harrisburg , and make your life and practice at home easier .
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It ' s that easy . Make a call and introduce yourself - let your legislator know that you are their dental resource . Need assistance ? John Basial at PDA will help every step of the way !
jpb @ padental . org or call 717.234.5941 x108
MAY / JUNE 2023 | PENNSYLVANIA DENTAL JOURNAL 9