SECOND DISTRICT
Dr . David Kaffey
The most challenging issue facing dentistry is an issue that has been ongoing for many years . Dental insurance companies continue to control the delivery of care by controlling the payment of claims , deductibles , and annual benefit amounts .
The most challenging issue facing organized dentistry is engaging younger dentists and providing value for their membership .
THIRD DISTRICT
Dr . Tom Langan
The increasing cost of dental school tuition is a big challenge . As the tuition costs continue to increase year over year , candidates will have to make a decision about whether or not dental school is a smart financial decision for their futures . This could potentially decrease the quality of applicants to dental schools , leading to less qualified dentists in the future . I do not believe dental education should be free , but there must be a way to control costs allowing the best applicants to apply .
The biggest issue facing organized dentistry , in my opinion , is the lack of understanding the benefits that come with being a member dentist . This leads to less members in the dental societies throughout the nation . Member and nonmember dentists may both be unaware of the benefits and resources that become available on an individual and group basis through organized dentistry . Member engagement to educate on these topics , starting at a social level , and leading up to general or board meetings are great ways to spread the value of organized dentistry . We have plenty of incredibly hard-working members who fight non-stop to better the profession daily , sacrificing their time to do so . If dentists could be better informed about these benefits , membership would grow .
MAY / JUNE 2024 | PENNSYLVANIA DENTAL JOURNAL 13