PDA ’ S ADVOCACY TAKES NEW HEIGHTS WITH SPA FUNDING
Since its inception , the ADA ’ s State Public Affairs ( SPA ) program has evolved nationally and helped more than 35 state dental societies manage public affairs issues , build strong communication capabilities and bolster advocacy efforts .
In 2021 , PDA has applied for and been granted funding from the SPA program to enhance our lobbying efforts with third party payer issues , in particular assignment of benefits legislation . If enacted , this legislation would require insurers to honor a patient ’ s request to assign their benefit directly to a non-participating provider . The additional funding was used to hire two more lobbyists to assist PDA ’ s current lobbying team in countering the insurance lobby ’ s opposition to PDA ’ s assignment of benefits bill . These additional “ boots on the ground ” gives PDA another strategic advantage , particularly during the most critical junctures of this legislation ’ s movement through the legislative process .
Through our involvement with this program , PDA was also able to use the services of Consumer Choice Center ( CCC ), an organization that supports the advancement of policy that enhances patients ’ ability to choose among products , innovations and services . CCC plans to publish an article this fall , supporting PDA ’ s effort to pass assignment of benefits legislation by making the case that patients are hurt by restrictive third-party payer policies that limit their ability to use their dental benefits as they wish .
In addition , PDA initiated a grassroots campaign to activate members statewide with a number of action alerts and social media postings to contact their legislators in support of SB 850 . Staff and volunteer leaders communicated directly with members who work or live in key legislative districts , specifically those in Allegheny and Philadelphia counties , imploring them to contact their legislators . Using donations to PADPAC , PDA ’ s political action committee , members attended legislative fundraisers and hosted dinners on PDA ’ s behalf , allowing them the opportunity to network and build relationships with state lawmakers from both sides of the aisle .
This multifaceted approach is needed to counter the most powerful lobbying organization in Harrisburg — the insurance industry .
Thank you , ADA !
PDA is grateful for our involvement in the ADA ’ s SPA program , which gave us the opportunity to employ additional lobbyists and utilize an innovative marketing campaign aimed at highlighting assignment of benefits as a consumer choice issue . PDA also benefited from the expertise of and advice from senior ADA staff and public relations consultants .
20 SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2021 | PENNSYLVANIA DENTAL JOURNAL