NEDDA Spring Newsletter 2015 - Northeast District Dental Association

“Helping members succeed.”
VOLUME 29- ISSUE 1– SPRING 2015
SAVE THE DATE
JACKSONVILLE
APRIL 22—23, 2016
Details will be announced as they become available.
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
My term as your NEDDA president is coming to an end in June. I want to take a moment to let you know that it has been
a great honor and pleasure to represent you. With the amazing group of dental professionals comprising your NEDDA
executive board and the JDS and Clay county affiliates, we have been able to provide our professional and public communities with quality programs in care and education. I cannot praise enough their devotion and personal contribution of
time on behalf of all the dentists in our component. Additionally, it has been fortuitous to have our own Dr. Rick Stevenson as the FDA president steering a course to increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of our organization and anticipating threats to our profession. One such concern on the horizon is the active involvement of the Kellogg and Pew foundations in our state who are actively promoting mid-level dental providers to our state legislatures. This has the potential
to dramatically change the way dentistry is delivered in our state and we must make sure we are well represented to
make our voices heard during “Dentist Day on The Hill”. The date is March 24, 2015 and if there was ever a time to rally
the troops IT IS NOW! All dentists should take this opportunity to witness how politics greatly influence our way of life and
why having a strong presence and a large turnout matters.
The Mission of Mercy (MOM) event will be coming to Jacksonville April 22-23, 2016. Mission of Mercy events across
America have been providing free dental services for the underserved since 1994. What's more, this is a huge opportunity for members of the NEDDA, JDS & CCDS to carry the torch forward with volunteer participation and community involvement. We will keep you posted as this amazing event is
rolled out.
Finally, I want to emphasize again how important organized dentistry is to all of us, especially the dentists new to the profession. Through the combined efforts of the ADA, FDA and NEDDA we have a durable presence not only locally but nationally. Remember that it starts with each member
doing their part to be part of the solution instead of being part of the problem. Get involved, participate, be an active member of our dental community
and profession.
Warmest Regards,
Roger D. Robinson, DMD, MS
FDA PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE—DR. RICHARD A. STEVENSON
THE JOURNEY CONTINUES III
The journey continues… I’ve gone from Naples and back home to
Jacksonville, then to Delray Beach for strategic planning and back
to Jacksonville, only to return to Weston for the Board of Dentistry
( BOD ) meeting. Then of course, back to Jacksonville—and then
off to Tallahassee to meet with Drew Eason. From there, it was on
to Montgomery to meet with Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi’s—and
of course, Florida’s—dental association executive directors and
presidents to discuss the W.K. Kellogg Foundation Grant to Morehouse College, which is designed to push the mid-level providers in
each state’s legislatures.
“There have been a few potholes and
detours put in my way. So, we learn to
take another direction that still takes us
toward our goal, but with a different
view.”
Being your president is an exciting position
and everyone wants to know why I do it.
The answer is easy: The great people I get
to meet and work with is worth it. You cannot put a price on the satisfaction you get
interacting with leaders in and outside Florida. Friendships are formed that will outlast
the time in our leadership roles. I’m at the halfway point in my year,
and there have been a few potholes and detours put in my way. So
we learn to take another direction that still takes us toward our goal,
but with a different view.
The FDA’s trustees and staff are always working in the background: on work groups for workforce innovations, building committee, Bylaws and Procedure review, and continuing the review of our
strategic plan. The Florida Dental Convention (FDC) committee is
hard at work for the upcoming 2015 and 2016 meetings. The Foundation is working on the next Mission of Mercy, which takes place
in Jacksonville in April 2016. A lot is happening. So, let’s make sure
to take time and enjoy our families and recharge our batteries for
any new challenges we may face in 2015.
IN THIS ISSUE:
President’s Message
FDA President’s Message
Trustees Report
NEDDA BUSINESS MEETING /
Spring Meeting
Commercial Leasing for Dental/
Medical Tenants “101”
Dental News & Updates
New Member Spotlight
Volunteer Opportunities
Classifieds
Page 1
Page 2
Page 4
Page 5
Page 6
Pages 7-12
Page 13
Pages 14-15
Pages 19 & 21
2 Northeast District Dental Association • Spring 2015
Northeast District Dental Association • Spring 2015
NEDDA FDA TRUSTEES REPORT
Access to Care, Care to Access, or Access to Funding?
Dr. Jolene Paramore (future FDA President) delivered this
presentation at a recent event at UFCD. The students organized a discussion on the Midlevel Provider concept supported by the Pew and Kellogg Foundations.
Dental Care: Who is responsible?
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Is it the dentist?
Is it the patient?
Is it the parent or caregiver?
Is it “society”?
Is dental care a right?
Is free dental care a right for those in poverty/the working poor?
Is it acceptable to have a tiered system?
There are significant obstacles to dental care for some patients. Many do not know how to navigate the system to get
available care. Some do not want care even if free. (I experienced this when I was in the US Air Force Dental Corps). Need does not
equal demand. The level of dental disease is often greater in the underserved and uninsured. Some only care when it is an emergent
problem. Medicaid funding is inadequate to cover the costs of delivering care. Adult dental Medicaid benefits are minimal and not
comprehensive. Managed care limits financial liability of the state but does not meet the needs of the citizens dependent upon Medicaid.
How has the FDA provided care and avenues to care for the underserved population in the recent past?
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Advocacy efforts –focused in increasing Medicaid reimbursement (fees increased slightly in 2011) – Health Access Licenses (to
allow licensed dentists from other states to work in health access settings without taking the Florida clinical examination)- expand
the duties of dental hygienists to administer local anesthesia in 2012, and apply fluoride and sealants in health access settings
without prier examination by a dentist.
Emergency Room Diversion Programs
Outreach activities: Project: Dentists Care clinics – 55 clinics across Florida – Pro bono dental care - $9,857,817 since 1993 –
2621 dentists, 653 hygienists and 1271 dental assistants volunteered over 23,231 hours
Mission of Mercy Events: In Jacksonville April 23-24, 2016
Donated Dental Services/Dental Lifeline Network
So, what is the FDA’s plan for the future????

FLORIDA’S ACTION FOR DENTAL HEALTH – a multi-faceted approach to the numerous factors that influence providing preventive and therapeutic care to the underserved and uninsured population. (This plan was sent to all FDA dentists several weeks
ago. I presented a short discussion at the February JDS meeting. Dr. Roger Robinson will again discuss it at the March NEDDA
meeting).
Summary
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There is available capacity with the current dental team members in Florida
We need a better distribution of our dentists to provide care to the underserved areas in our State
We need oral health education in our schools
The Florida Legislature needs to fund dental Medicaid programs to cover the cost of delivering care and Dental Care Access
I want to thank Dr. Jolene Paramore for developing this presentation. We are working on the tactics to accomplish our plan. If you
have any ideas please contact Dr. Paramore or me.
Thank you,
Barry Setzer
[email protected]
Cell: 904-614-7472
Office: 904-733-7254
4 Northeast District Dental Association • Spring 2015
NEDDA, JDS AND CCDS PRESENT DR. ROGER LEVIN, “ Build Build Your Ideal Practice & Dream Team—The Blueprint
to a Highly Productive Practice & Happy Staff”.
Friday, March 6, 2015, Dr. Roger Levin presented to the members of our respective associations at the beautiful Players Championship Clubhouse. We had a
great turn out!
The NEDDA Business meeting called to order at 12:08 PM by our President, Dr. Roger Robinson.
The Treasurer’s Report was delivered by our Treasurer, Dr. Rick Mullens who informed us that our finances are stable and in good shape. The Northeast District is very
thankful that the membership approved of the dues increase of $20 at our last meeting. The additional funds will go towards ensuring that we can continue to offer the highest quality speakers as a member benefit. Please let your colleagues that are not present know this.
Dr. Rick Stevenson, FDA President, gave an update from the FDA and spoke of Florida’s Action for Dental Health – its main focus is to help provide dental care for the
underserved. Dr. Stevenson was thrilled to announce that Florida was the only state that increased its membership by 1% and emphasized the importance of membership
and speaking with one voice. In order that your professional organization can continue to work for you, please make sure to fill out the survey sent out from Moorehouse.
The FDA wants to remind all dentists that Dentist ‘s Day on the Hill is March 25, 2015. All dentists are encouraged to attend.
Heather Gioia, the FDA’s Foundation Director, showed a short video presentation and let members present know the date of the next MOM (April 22-23, 2016) and that
there are opportunities to volunteer when the event comes to Jacksonville. We want to thank Heather for being instrumental in coordinating this exciting event!
Joe Anne Hart, FDA’s Director of Governmental Affairs, said she and her team are working tirelessly behind the scenes on the members behalf to prevent midlevel providers from forever changing the way dentistry is delivered.
Dr. Bert Hughes, FDA’s Florida Dental Convention Chair, gave an update on the next convention in June. The dates for the conventions are June 11-15, 2015 at the Gaylord Palms.
Past FDA President and Current 17th District Trustee, Terry Buckenheimer announced that he was going to be a contender in the bid for the next ADA president. He would
appreciate our support in this endeavor.
NEDDA’s President Elect, Dr. Leandra Dopazo, announced a Save the Date for Friday, October 30, 2015. NEDDA’s Fall, All– Day meeting will be held at the Jacksonville
Sheraton on October 30, 2015 featuring Dr. Henry Gremillion.
The meeting was adjourned at 1:00PM
This meeting was made possible by the following sponsors: ADS of Florida,
BioHorizons, Care Credit, Dental PC, The Gravelle Group, FDA Services, Henry Schein, Kettenbach, LBA Group, Patterson Dental, ProHealth Solutions and Surgitel.
5 Northeast District Dental Association • Spring 2015
COMMERCIAL LEASING FOR DENTAL/MEDICAL TENANTS “101”
BY: JEFF GRANDFIELD AND DALE WILLERTON – THE LEASE COACH
For many doctors, negotiating a good lease or lease renewal against an experienced landlord
or their agent can be a challenge. While doctors focus on patient care, savvy real estate
agents and brokers are specialized sales people. Their job is to sell tenants on leasing their
location at the highest possible rental rate.
When The Lease Coach spoke at the Pacific Dental Conference, these are some tips we
shared:
Negotiate to Win: Frequently, dental/medical tenants enter into lease negotiations unprepared and don`t even try winning the negotiations. Motivated by big commissions, the landlord’s agent is negotiating fiercely to win. Negotiate assertively.
Be Prepared to Walk Away: Try to set aside your emotions and make objective decisions. Whoever most needs to make a lease deal will give up the most concessions. A good
doctor stuck in a poor location will never achieve the full potential of his/her practice.
Ask the Right Questions: Learning what other commercial tenants are paying for rent or
what incentives they received will position you to get a better deal. Consider that your landlord
and his agent know what every other tenant in the property is paying in rent, so you must do
your homework too.
Brokers … Friend or Foe? Real estate agents and brokers typically work for the landlord who is paying their commission. It
is not normally the agent`s role to get the tenant the best deal – it is their job to get the landlord the highest rent, the biggest deposit,
etc. The higher the rent you pay, the more commission the agent typically earns. When researching multiple properties, try to deal
directly with the listing agent for each property, rather than letting one agent show you around or show you another agent`s listing.
Your tenancy is more desirable to the listing agent if he can avoid commission-splitting with other agents.
Never Accept the First Offer: Even if it seems reasonable, or you have no idea of what to negotiate for, never accept the
leasing agent`s first offer. In the real estate industry, most things are negotiable and the landlord fully expects you to counter-offer.
Negotiate the Deposit: Large deposits are not legally required in a real estate lease agreement. Deposits are negotiable and
often serve to compensate the landlord for the commissions he will be paying to their agent. The Lease Coach is frequently successful in negotiating to have the tenant’s deposit returned when renewing a lease.
Educate Yourself and Get Help: Reading about the subject or listening in on a leasing webinar will make a difference. Have
your lease documents professionally reviewed before you sign them. With hundreds of thousands of dollars in rent at stake, personal
guarantees and other risks, you can`t afford to gamble. In leasing, dental/medical tenants don`t get what they deserve, they get what
they negotiate.
For a copy of our free CD, Leasing Do’s & Don’ts for Commercial Tenants, please e-mail your request to [email protected].
Dale Willerton and Jeff Grandfield - The Lease Coach are Commercial Lease Consultants who work exclusively for tenants. Dale and
Jeff are professional speakers and co-authors of Negotiating Commercial Leases & Renewals For Dummies (Wiley, 2013). Got a
leasing question? Need help with your new lease or renewal? Call 1-800-738-9202, e-mail [email protected] or
visit www.TheLeaseCoach.com.
6 Northeast District Dental Association • Spring 2015
How can I be part of a plan when I didn’t sign up? Network Leasing/ Affiliate Carriers
By Dr. Charles Hoffman, 17th District Representative to the ADA Council on Dental Benefits
There are two ways in which this might happen.
1)
You signed a contract with a network leasing company and that contract allows the leasing company to rent, lease or sell a
network of dentists to dental plans, third party administrators and any other entity.
2)
You signed a PPO contract with a third party payer that allows the third party payer to rent, lease or sell the network of dentists to an affiliated carrier or any other entity.
Another similar situation is when you may have signed a contract that allows the carrier to place you in-network for all their plans.
Such an agreement can actually be beneficial especially if:
1)
it results in new patients coming into your office and
2) the fee schedules are not different from what you originally agreed to in your contract with the primary company.
On the other hand, if many of your cash patients become eligible for the discounted fee, it may adversely affect your practice.
Your practice may also be affected when the agreement between the primary and secondary carrier allows the secondary carrier to
further discount your fee schedule. Again this can happen without your explicit consent depending on terms in your original contract.
Looking at contract clauses closely is very important to avoid such situations. Members can use the ADA’s Contract Analysis Service
by submitting an unsigned contract to their state or local dental societies who will forward it to the Service. The Service provides a
plain language explanation of contract terms of each agreement analyzed. The Service does not provide legal advice or recommend
whether a contract should or should not be signed. The analysis will be subsequently sent to the member at no charge.
In an effort to promote transparency, the ADA’s Council on Dental Benefit Programs is working on concepts to support legislation that
will require dental plans and third party leasing organizations to properly disclose all such relationships and provide the dentist the
opportunity to explicitly agree to such agreements before they are placed into affiliated carrier networks.
Until you have legislation in your state, make sure to check your mail. Some letters are marked “No action needed”. Letters often talk
about how the new program allows you to “grow your practice”. Always read these letters to understand what impact they have on
your practice.
7 Northeast District Dental Association • Spring 2015
8 Northeast District Dental Association • Spring 2015
CHANGE IN BACKGROUND SCREENING PROCESS FOR FLORIDA MEDICAID
Background screening for Medicaid providers will shift to the Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse effective March 1,
2015.
The Clearinghouse’s purpose is to provide a single data source for background screening results of persons required to be screened
for enrollment in Florida Medicaid. The Clearinghouse will allow the criminal history checks’ results to be shared among specified
agencies when a person has applied to volunteer, be employed, be licensed, or enter into a contract that requires a state and national fingerprint-based criminal history check (section 435.12, Florida Statutes).
A new Florida Medicaid Originating Agency Identifier (ORI), EAHCA013Z, will take effect March 1. This ORI requires retained prints
and a photograph. The new cost for the screening is $62.75 plus any handling fees charged by the Livescan vendor submitting the
screening for the provider. The existing ORI (FL922013Z) will be invalid as of March 1 and will be denied. If a submission is denied,
providers must complete and pay for new fingerprints using the new ORI (EAHCA013Z).
It is recommended that providers cease submitting hard fingerprint cards at this time. It also is recommended that all electronic submissions for Medicaid be completed prior to Friday, Feb. 27 to limit risk of denial. Submissions can resume on Monday, March 2 using the new ORI (EAHCA013Z).
Medicaid providers are required to register applicants on the Clearinghouse website prior to screening; this will create a screening
ID, or screening request ID, for use by Livescan vendors and providers. The new ORI will be passed to the Livescan vendor/service
provider if an appointment is scheduled via the Clearinghouse website.
Clearinghouse website information is available on the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) public portal at http://
ahca.myflorida.com/mchq/central_services/background_screening/index.shtml.
If you have any questions, please contact Casey Stoutamire in the Governmental Affairs Office at 850-224-1089
or [email protected].
9 Northeast District Dental Association • Spring 2015
What happens when 19 dentists get together along with 36 dental assistants and hygienists, hygiene students, pre-dental students
and nutrition students on a Saturday morning in February at the Sulzbacher Center dental clinic?
The obvious answer is GKAS 2015!
GKAS was held on February 21st, 2015. Our volunteers provided care to over 50 children from area shelters as well as the community at large. Over $34,000 worth of services were provided over 9 hours. The bulk of procedures were focused on prevention and
education however the doctors also found time to perform over 50 restorative procedures!
This event would not be possible without the seamless collaboration between the Jacksonville Dental Society, Northeast District Dental Society, FSCJ, UNF, the Sulzbacher Center and our local dental supply companies. Please consider thanking your local BENCO,
KERR and Dentsply representatives for all their assistance with this important event.
10 Northeast District Dental Association • Spring 2015
OF LAWYERS, LATTES, AND DENTISTS By : Marko Vujicic, PhD *
One of the most rewarding parts of my job is having the privilege of speaking with practicing dentists all over the United States. As a
nonclinician, and someone who spends a lot of time looking at data, I find these conversations tremendously informative. Not only do
they provide an intimate understanding of the frontline challenges facing the profession, but they also provide an opportunity to test
whether the conclusions gleaned from the research done by the Health Policy Institute on the changing dental care system are consistent with the grassroots experience.
Results from numerous Health Policy Institute studies show that dental spending has been sluggish for several years,1 that adults are
going to the dentist less (2)—a trend unrelated to the recent economic downturn—and that a substantial share of US adults report
they delay getting dental care they need because it is too costly.(3,4)When I ask dentists whether they are seeing these trends in their
practices, most say yes. And then, with surprising frequency, the conversations spontaneously turn to lattes, tattoos, and cell
phones—namely, dentists tell me time and again that it is not that dental care is becoming “too expensive” but rather that patient priorities are changing. Their patients are choosing to spend less on dental care and more on discretionary items such as $4,000 vacations, $400 cell phones, and $4 lattes. Tattoos, for whatever reason, also are mentioned often and seem to generate a particularly
visceral response. I recall one dentist coming up to me after a presentation, visibly upset, and telling me about a patient “who just got
a thousand dollars’ worth of new tattoos and then said he did not have enough money for a root canal to save his tooth.”
Now my experience is that dentists are generally a pretty straitlaced, tattoo-shunning group. But on my way home, I kept thinking to
myself that there might be something more to this story. So I did what economists tend to do: get the data.
The figure (5) shows the average annual growth rate of inflation adjusted household spending on various items for 3 different periods:
prerecession (1995-2007), during the recession (2007-2009), and postrecession (2009-2011). These data are from the most up-todate, reliable source for household spending over time on specific items (spending on tattoos, unfortunately, is not available). When
the data are presented this way, several important conclusions emerge. First, household spending on dental care decreased during
the recession, as did household spending on many items. This finding is consistent with findings from other research (1) showing that
US dental care expenditure was flat during the downturn and actually had started to slow in the early 2000s. Second, among items for
which household spending did not decrease during the recession, there was still a marked reduction in the growth rate of spending.
Third, postrecession household spending is contracting for just 3 items—legal services, coffee and tea, and dental care—while the
remaining items are all seeing spending growth.
Some of the increases in postrecession household spending are dramatic. For example, spending on cell phones and package tours
is growing by approximately 10% per year. Spending on alcohol is growing at 5% per year, after taking a hit during the recession.
Household spending on dental care, on the other hand, continues to decrease. Other data show that despite being 5 years removed
from the end of the Great Recession, the dental economy is not recovering, and dental spending continues to be flat. (1)The basic
conclusion from the figure (5) is that household spending on many items is recovering. But not lawyers, lattes, and dentists.
Figure.
Annual growth rate of inflation-adjusted household spending for various items. Source: Bureau of Economic Analysis. (5)
11 Northeast District Dental Association • Spring 2015
Two questions come to mind when thinking about how to interpret these data. First, is there anything on the horizon that might kickstart the dental economy, or are we in a new normal of flat or decreasing spending? Dentistry is entering a period of major transition,
and it is difficult to answer this question. On the one hand, recent analysis suggests that dental spending will not recover to historically
high growth rates (6) if current trends continue. On the other hand, the Affordable Care Act is expanding dental coverage in many
states, which is likely to spur demand for dental care. Given that the coverage gains are mainly through Medicaid,(7) however, it is
difficult to predict the net spending effect and net effect on demand for dental care. Dental care use among middle- and high-income
adults—the main drivers of dental care spending—has been decreasing steadily since the early 2000s and shows no signs of reversing.(2)
The second, and perhaps more profound, question is why are households spending more on cell phones and vacations and spending
less on dental care as the economy recovers? There are obviously a multitude of plausible reasons. Dental care needs could be decreasing because of oral health improvements. Perceived lack of need is the top reason high-income adults do not intend to visit the
dentist within the next 12 months.(4) Different approaches could be emerging with respect to routine preventive care strategies, with a
move away from twice-yearly visits.(8)
The subjective value of dental care also could be changing among the adult population, but much more research is needed to “get
inside the heads” of consumers. Both quantitative and qualitative research demonstrates that young adults, for example, value dental
insurance,(9)but they are cost-conscious shoppers and, for example, are much less willing to pay higher premiums for more robust
plans and more provider choice than are older age groups.(10) In general, there is increasing cost consciousness and drive for value
among consumers throughout the health care system, particularly among young and low-income adults.
C. Everett Koop, former US surgeon general, famously said, “You can’t be healthy without good oral health.”(11) Emerging evidence
suggests dental care use can reduce medical care costs, improve job prospects, and improve quality of life. In my view, however, here
is also emerging evidence that we are entering an era in which the subjective value of dental care in the eyes of the adult population—
especially young adults—could be changing. More in-depth research is needed to understand, and potentially influence, the value
proposition associated with a dental visit. The Health Policy Institute is exploring collaborations with various stakeholders to generate
this evidence.
To read the article in its original format and to see references please copy and paste the following in your web browser:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.adaj.2014.12.016
* Dr. Vujicic is chief economist and vice president, Health Policy Institute, American Dental Association
12 Northeast District Dental Association • Spring 2015
NEW MEMBER’S SPOTLIGHT
New to northeast Florida, Dr. Benjamin N.
Diller is a general dentist that recently
acquired a practice in Fernandina Beach.
Dr. Diller was born and raised in northwest
Ohio and graduated Magna Cum Laude
from Bowling Green State University. For
his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree, he
attended The Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio. Dr. Diller is a sports enthusiast and enjoys spending time outdoors.
Dr. Diller and his wife are excited to be a part of the Salt Life here
in northeast Florida.
We would like to take this opportunity to welcome our
newest members:
Dr. Young Lee
Dr. Stephanie Chaves
Dr. Diego Andrade—Endodontist
Dr. Benjamin Diller
FSCJ Dental Assisting Program needs externship offices:
Florida State College at Jacksonville is seeking general dentists
and dental specialists interested in hosting dental assisting students in the externship phase of their education. The ideal office
will welcome our externs as they supplement the preclinical
skills they’ve learned in school with hands-on skills with a member of the host’s dental team providing guidance. The externships start in early April and end in late June with students rotated through a minimum of two offices. If you are interested, contact Dr. Jeffrey Smith at 904-766-6655.
IN MEMORIAM
NEDDA wishes to extend it’s sympathy to the family of Dr. Ken
Scales who passed away Tuesday, February 10, 2015.
13 Northeast District Dental Association • Spring 2015
Local Anesthesia Delivery for the Licensed
Dental Hygienist course at FSCJ
The Dental Hygiene Program at Florida State College at Jacksonville is offering its local anesthesia continuing education
course for dental hygienists. This 60-hour course satisfies the
Florida certification requirements and consists of a 30-hour selfpaced, online didactic section, a 15-hour weekend hands-on
section and 15-hours of observation. The course is being taught
by Dr. Peggy Dennis and will cost $950, plus the cost of the
textbook. For more details, please visit www.fscjdental.info or
call Vincent Sams at 904-766-6004.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
VOLUNTEER TO TREAT PATIENTS IN YOUR OFFICE – Project: Dentist’s Care
Project: Dentist’s Care is the program that coordinates the placement of uninsured, low income residents with dental emergencies into
private offices. Extractions and restorations are the primary treatment needs. All treatment plans will be cleared by the Dentist prior to
the patient being scheduled. Contact Community Health Outreach administration office at 904-573-1333 ext 4 or [email protected].
VOLUNTEER AT ONE OF THE FOLLOWING JACKSONVILLE CLINICS:

COMMUNITY HEALTH OUTREACH (HEALING HANDS) – The clinic is located at 5126 Timuquana Road, on the Westside of
Jacksonville. Many of you may have heard of the "Apple Project" on First Coast News in stories done by Jeannie Blaylock about a
free dental clinic on Jacksonville's Westside. That campaign has given birth to a beautiful new Dental/Medical Clinic called Healing Hands which operates under the umbrella of Community Health Outreach (www.chojax.org). For over 20 years, communityspirited dentists have donated their valuable time to perform emergency dental care for those in need. Since Community Health
Outreach is completely free and serves those meeting income limits set by the state, we qualify as a "Sovereign Immunity" Clinic
through Florida's Volunteer Health Care Provider Program Section 766.1115, F.S. That statute protects volunteer providers
against malpractice and conveys discounts on license renewal (based on hours volunteered) and up to 25% credit for Continuing
Education biennial requirements.
We seek 50 to 100 Dentists to commit to at least six four hour shifts a year to get them sovereign immunity since that is a 2 week
process which we work with you on. In our old environment, we operated 1 day a week and just used a relatively small cadre' of
dentists. We aim to expand operations to 5 days a week since current demand far outstrips our present limited availability to give
care. Our new website will make volunteering easier! It is being developed and will go live by May 1. Our new building, with state
of the art equipment, will open by then also. For now, you can e-mail [email protected] for more information. We would like to
show you our facilities at your convenience with an advance appointment. Then recruit you to join our team!
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SULZBACHER CLINIC (DOWNTOWN LOCATION) – The clinic is located at 611 East Adams Street, in downtown Jacksonville.
The mission of this clinic is to render dental services to the homeless (both residents and non-residents of the Sulzbacher Center). This facility has five operatories, with the ability to perform dental exams, digital radiographs (periapical and panoramic),
operative dentistry, removal partial and complete dentures (dental lab services are available), non-surgical endodontic therapy,
extractions, scaling/root planning and fluoride applications. A registered dental hygienist is also available. Contact the Dental
Director, Dr. Suzanne Ebert, [email protected].

VOLUNTEERS IN MEDICINE – The clinic address is: 41 East Duval Street, in downtown Jacksonville. The primary mission of
this organization is to provide medical and dental services to the working uninsured. Dental services are provided 5-8pm at The
Sulzbacher Dental Clinic in Jacksonville (611 East Adams Street) 4 times /month. Contact the VIM Coordinator, Ms. Catie Wallace, at 904-399-2766, extension 103, or [email protected].
FDPAC REPRESENTATIVE:

NEDDA is looking for volunteers to serve as our FDAPAC Representative.
Recommended Qualifications for Board Members:
Exhibited an interest in politics and willingness to make time for FDAPAC and other political activities. FDA Legislative Contact
Dentist Ability and desire to motivate other member dentists to be involved in the political process. Member of FDAPAC and Ce
ntury Club. Regular participant in FDA’s annual “Dentists’ Day on the Hill”. Proven, successful fundraiser. Please direct any ques
tions to the FDAPAC Chair: Dr. Gerald Bird - [email protected]
Northeast District Dental Association Newsletter
3733 University Boulevard West, Suite 212
Jacksonville, Florida 32217
(904) 737-7545
Fax (904) 737-9934
www.nedda.org
The Newsletter is published four times a year: Spring, Summer, Fall and
Winter. The Newsletter will publish signed articles relating to all phases of
dentistry but assumes no responsibility for opinions expressed by the contributors.
Advertising and distribution data are available upon request.
EDITOR: Dr. Suzanne Ebert
CONTRIBUTING EDITOR: Dr. Leandra Dopazo
Managing Editor: Debbie DeVille
14 Northeast District Dental Association • Spring 2015
Wounded Warrior Project™ (WWP) began when several veterans and friends, moved by stories of the first wounded service members
returning home from Afghanistan and Iraq, took action to help others in need. What started as a program to provide comfort items to
wounded service members has grown into a complete rehabilitative effort to assist warriors as they recover and transition back to civilian life.
We are blessed to have the WWP Headquarters here in Jacksonville. One of their unique programs to help these warriors is the
TRACK Program. TRACK's one-year program gives warriors a jump-start on meeting educational goals with the full support of the
WWP team. The warrior students take classes at Florida State College and also participate in a range of services that enhance their
minds, bodies, and spirits.
Several years ago the Northeast District Dental Association Board was contacted for assistance in adding to the TRACK Program
through a dentist/warrior “adoption”. This was coordinated with the Florida State College Hygiene Program who graciously put on a
“Wounded Warrior Day”. The warriors have a day where they are honored and treated to a host of services including dental exams
and cleanings by the hygiene students and staff. This is where our Adopt a Warrior Dentists come in………these warriors are medically discharged from the military but do not have VA dental benefits as they are not considered 100% disabled.
First, a volunteer general dentist will be assigned a current TRACK warrior. The Cohort (TRACK class) size varies, so there may only
be 20 or less in each group. Depending on how many dentist volunteers sign up, some may or may not get a warrior assigned to
them. The list will be rotated each Cohort so you will always have the opportunity to help.
When you receive the name of a warrior, please let your staff at your reception desk know that they may be calling. PLEASE KEEP IN
MIND THAT THEY MIGHT NOT NEED ANY DENTAL CARE IMMEDIATELY AND YOU MIGHT NOT HEAR FROM THEM. There
has been confusion in the past from dentists that never heard from their warrior. It is solely up to them to contact the dentist….you are
offering your support when they do.
Each general dentist will be given a list of specialists who have volunteered their services as well. There are Oral Surgeons, Endodontists, Prosthodontists, Periodontists, and Orthodontists all willing to see a warrior. Please refer to them when you need their assistance!
Typically you do your own exam and radiographs just as you would for any new patient. From there you can decide what works for
each of your schedules and take it from there. Whatever you feel comfortable doing and how much is entirely up to you. It is all complimentary care.
The Track warriors go through their program for one year, so your commitment is during the time they are actively part of the program.
If you feel you want to do more after that, you are free to do so, although they do not expect it. They are truly grateful for the care and
respect we give them.
Thank you so much for your participation in this honorable program!
If you have signed up before, I still have you on the list. Please confirm via email to me you want to continue to offer your
services.
Dr. Peggy Lessig, ([email protected])
NEDDA/ WWP Liason
15 Northeast District Dental Association • Spring 2015
"This campaign flyer is intended for distribution within the ADA 17th District (Florida) only. Any release to any ADA Officers, Districts or Members outside the 17th District has not been authorized."
16 Northeast District Dental Association • Spring 2015
17 Northeast District Dental Association • Spring 2015
NEDDA EXECUTIVE BOARD 2014-2015
Dr. Roger Robinson, President
Dr. Leandra Dopazo, President Elect
Dr. Rick Mullens, Treasurer
Dr. Suzanne Ebert, Secretary
Dr. Claudio Varella, Member at Large
Dr. Linda Trotter, Past President
Dr. Jason Lewis, JDS President
Dr. Beth Kailes, CCDS President
Dr. Barry Setzer, Trustee
Dr. Andy Brown, Alternate Trustee
Dr. Rick Stevenson, FDA President
Delegates:
Dr. Steve Cochran
Dr, Leandra Dopazo
Dr. Suzanne Ebert
Dr. Sam Hanania
Dr. Jack Harrington
Dr. Roger Robinson
Dr. Linda Trotter
Dr. Claudio Varella
Alternate Delegates:
Dr. Tom Brown
Dr. Brad Cherry
Dr. CJ Henley
Dr. Vaughn Holland
Dr. Rick Mullens
Dr. Kris Scales
(904) 737-2040
(904) 398-6461
(904) 399-3163
(904) 394-8060
(904) 739-2422
(904) 389-3451
(904) 201-6000
(904) 215-7800
(904) 733-7254
(904) 272-1165
(904) 281-2566
Dr. Flavio Soarez
Dr. Cecil White
FDA Committees:
FDA Services - Dr. Mike Stratton
Florida Dental Health Foundation Dr. Lew Walker
FDAPAC - TBF
FDC - Dr Brad Cherry / Dr. Sandy
Rosenberg
Governmental Action - Dr. Andy
Brown
Leadership Development - Dr. Brad
Cherry
FDA Councils:
Communications -Dr. Roger Robinson
We would like to take this opportunity to thank the dedicated members of our Executive Board, Delegation and
FDA Committee and Council representatives who make
NEDDA and what we do possible. These individuals work
tirelessly to make sure the voice of our organization is
heard in Tallahassee and in Washington. It takes a lot of
hard work and sacrifice to ensure that the current dental
practice remains what is best for the practitioner. Our organization is strong but it still needs committed members
who are willing to step up to the plate and serve. If you
are interested in serving on the Executive Board, Delegation or on the many FDA Committees and Councils that
we have representation on, please feel free to contact any
of the individuals listed below. (If contact information is
not listed please visit our website at www.nedda.org or
contact Debbie DeVille, our Executive Director at [email protected] )
18 Northeast District Dental Association • Spring 2015
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
Ethics, Bylaws & Judicial Affairs Dr. Kris Scales
Financial Affairs - Dr. Cecil White
Dental Benefits and Care - Dr. Linda
Trotter
Dental Health - Dr. Suzanne Ebert
Dental Licensure - Dr. Tom Brown
Membership - Dr. Mike Delucia
Sub Council on the New Dentist Dr. Marcus Higgins
CLASSIFIED ADS
ARGYLE LEASE SPACE AVAILABLE: at Crescent Hill Office Park. Convenient to Westside, Orange Park, Oak Leaf Plantation and I-295. For further information
please call: 904-778-0054 or Dr. Glenn Forhan at 904-772-0054
DENTIST WANTED: Well established general practice, located in Jacksonville Florida, looking for a full time associate. Package of benefits include basic salary/ or
percentage, which ever is higher, health insurance and much more. Please call for details at 904-613-3375.
PART TIME ASSOCIATE WANTED: We are a well established general practice located in Jacksonville looking for a part time to eventual full time dental associate
to join our enthusiastic team! Our office believes in supporting the local community, along with a high standard of patient care, and we are looking for a like-minded
individual. Your package of benefits will include basic salary/ or percentage, which ever is higher, health insurance and much more. We are primarily looking for
someone to fill afternoon and evening hours, and experience is preferred. If we sound like the practice for you, send over your resume and we'll be in contact! You
may email your resume to [email protected], or fax it to (904) 880-3169.
FOR SALE OR LEASE TO OWN - 1st YEAR FREE RENT: Four plumbed dental offices. Great Mandarin location on San Jose Blvd. Across from Outback Steakhouse. Please call: Dr. Leibowitz, 904-268-4351
PANORAMIC PC-1000 FOR SALE: $3900 or best offer delivered and installed. Please call: 904-739-3939 or 904-463-1952
PRACTICE OPPORTUNITY: for Endo, Perio, or General Dental, practice and equipment for sale. Four complete operatories with Dexis digital radiography. Lease
is negotiable. Available immediately. Contact Dr. Dave Sullivan 904-860-3028 or Dr. Paul Rang 407-671-2998.
DENTAL OFFICE FOR LEASE: Fleming Island. Desirable location. Excellent US Highway 17 visibility, 2000 square feet, all plumbing, 4 operatories, lab, private
and business office. Contact Wendy at 904-264-2771 to view.
PREMIUM OPPORTUNITY FOR ORAL SURGEON: Fantastic Part-Time position for Oral Surgeon in a rapidly growing and beautiful family practice located on the
West side of Jacksonville. Focus will be on 3rd molar extractions and implant placement. Compassionate and caring chairside manner is a must for this customer
service oriented practice! Surgeon to handle their own scheduling, collections, and staff. Agreement based on a convenient month to month rental of space and
facilities. Please email [email protected] or fax (904) 783-2046 with your cover letter, resume, and best contact number.
FULL TIME ASSOCIATE POSITION AVAILABLE: in rapidly growing and beautiful PPO practice with an opportunity for partnership. Enjoy working in a modern,
completely digital, state-of-the-art office. We are looking for a dentist with 1-5 years of previous work experience. You must be willing to learn new systems and
value mentorship. Email [email protected] with your cover letter, resume, and best contact number.
ASSOCIATE GENERAL DENTIST POSITION AVAILABLE: Our practice is a long-established private practice in the St. Augustine Beach, Florida area. We have
a great team of professionals, a friendly patient base, a positive working environment and are in network with many PPO dental plans. If you are a general dentist
with at least 4 years of experience and are looking for an associate position in a time-honored private practice, we encourage you to apply. Submit your CV/
Resume and contact information to [email protected] or fax to (904) 471-5240.
PEDIATRIC DENTIST ASSOCIATE POSITION AVAILABLE: Beautiful private pediatric dental practice in Jacksonville seeking a board certified pediatric dentist.
Our practice is in a network with only the best PPO plans. Best digital sensors on the market. Office opened in 2013 and has grown quickly. Relaxed and fun working environment, strong office manager, RDH on staff, friendly patient base, great opportunity for the right pediatric dentist. 2 days a week to start, hours 9-4.
Email your CV [email protected] call 904-469-7227 with any questions.
FULL AND PART TIME DENTISTS NEEDED: Immediate openings available for full and part time dentists to work in busy one day denture practice or general
dentistry office for children. Locations are in Jacksonville, FL. Must have active FL license. Active Medicaid number is a plus. Competitive compensation and benefits package. Contact Dr. Leroy Polite at 904-655-9463
HELP NEEDED: Dentist going on temporary disability and needs a dentist to cover half or full days. Please call Dr. Joe Chiafair 904-463-1952
BEACH BLVD. DENTAL OFFICE SPACE FOR LEASE: In multi-specialty dental building including prosthodontist, oral & maxillofacial surgeon and pediatric dentist. Great location for Ortho or Endo. This office is directly exposed to Beach Blvd. and busy San Pablo intersection traffic. Please call Dr. Azari at 904-992-8900
or 904-612-3485 or Fax 904-992-4922.
FOR SALE: GENTLY used Cerec MC XL milling unit. $75,000. Located in Ponte Vedra Beach. Please call for details: Dr. Penney Weeks’ office 904-285-1990
FOR SALE: Two 7-Tier Letter Size Rotary File cabinets. They retail at National Business furniture for $1895 each and are in excellent condition. We're asking
$1800 for both, OBO.This letter-size rotary file is designed to give you maximum filing space while taking up less floor space. Seven shelves hold letter size files,
and are perfect for storing color-coded filing.This double-faced unit rotates smoothly to provide easy access to both sides. The file unit locks for security, and is
constructed of heavy-gauge steel for long-lasting strength. When installing file, allow 5.25" distance from wall to accommodate rotating carriage. Call Adria at 904880-3131 or email [email protected] for more information.
19 Northeast District Dental Association • Spring 2015
20 Northeast District Dental Association • Spring 2015
CLASSIFIED ADS CONTINUED
ASSOCIATE DENTIST POSITION AVAILABLE Associate dentist with strong personal and clinical skills to work for a quality and established family dental practice
in the Jacksonville area. Please apply to [email protected] or leave a message: 904-955-2694. Thank you for your interest.
FORMER ORTHODONTIC OFFICE FOR LEASE : 1200 sq. ft. lease space at the Baymeadows Professional Building at 9109 Baymeadows Road. Renovated in
2009, it is in a great location at the Northeast corner at I-95 and Baymeadows. The 8200 sq.ft. building has a Periodontist, an Endodontist and a General Practice
already located in the building. Ready for move in or renovation for your needs. Call Dr. Jack Kelley 904-962-0845 for viewing or further details.
PREMIUM OPPORTUNITY FOR ENDODONTIST: Fantastic Part-Time position for an Endo in a rapidly growing and beautiful family practice located on the
Westside of Jacksonville. Focus will be on Molar Endo. Compassionate and caring chairside manner is a must for this customer service oriented practice! Agreement based on a convenient month to month rental of space and facilities. Please email [email protected] or fax 904 783-2046 with your cover
letter, resume and best contact number.
FULL -TIME ASSOCIATE POSITION AVAILABLE: in rapidly growing and beautiful PPO practice with an opportunity for partnership. Enjoy working in a modern,
completely digital, state-of-the-art office. We are looking for a dentist with 1-5 years of previous work experience. You must be willing to learn new systems and
value mentorship. Email [email protected] with your cover letter, resume, and best contact number.
DENTAL DIRECTOR NEEDED: Community Health Outreach a 501(C)(3) free dental clinic for low/no income qualifiers in Duval County seeks licensed general
practitioners to apply for Dental Director position. Currently funded for 20 hours a week with potential for growth. Request job description and or send resume to
[email protected] .
Please let me know if your ad can be removed at [email protected]
Your assistance is greatly appreciated!
2008 Riverside Avenue, Suite 200
Jacksonville, FL 32204
904-224-2100
intergitylawjax.com
[email protected]
Areas of practice include:

Family Law

Landlord/Tenant Law - Property Management

Small Business Law

Estate Planning and Probate

Real Estate and Title Services

Foreclosure Defense

Personal Injury.
21 Northeast District Dental Association • Spring 2015
Aaron J. Irving, Esq.
Licensed to practice law in
Florida.