DIGRN Pres: ADA, Insurance, and Dentistry’s Future – Discussion with Dr. Bob Dee & Dr. Spencer Bloom

Episode Title: The ADA, Insurance, and the Future of Dentistry: A Candid Discussion 


Description:

In this inaugural episode of The Bald Truth: The Dental Politics Podcast, Dr. Bob Dee and Dr. Spencer Bloom dive into the pressing issues facing organized dentistry today. With unfiltered discussions about the American Dental Association (ADA), insurance policies, and the evolving landscape of dentistry, they challenge the status quo and advocate for a better future for the profession. Their mission? To preserve the integrity of dentistry for generations to come.



Episode Highlights

- A candid introduction to Dr. Bob and Dr. Spencer, their backgrounds, and their deep-rooted passion for organized dentistry.  
- The importance of the ADA and its role in shaping the future of the profession.  
- Concerns about the ADA’s transparency, communication, and decision-making.  
- The growing influence of corporate dentistry and its potential consequences for private practitioners.  
- The controversial issue of non-dues revenue and how it impacts ADA accountability to its members.  
- The corporate partnerships controversy—why dentists are frustrated and how it affects the credibility of the ADA.  
- The long-term vision for organized dentistry and what happens if the ADA fails to adapt.
 


Personal Passions

Both Dr. Bob and Dr. Spencer are deeply invested in advocating for transparency and meaningful change within organized dentistry. They believe that the ADA, despite its shortcomings, is still the best hope for protecting the interests of dentists and patients alike. Their late-night conversations, filled with spirited debate, led to the creation of this podcast as a platform to challenge, inform, and inspire change.



Podcast Vision

The Bald Truth: The Dental Politics Podcast aims to be the go-to source for candid discussions on dental advocacy, policy changes, and the future of the profession. Whether you’re an ADA member, a non-member, or a concerned dental professional, this podcast provides critical insights into the decisions that shape your career and your practice. The show will also serve as an "educational tool for House of Delegates members" preparing for key votes and discussions.



Key Takeaways

- "The ADA needs to improve its communication and transparency" to regain trust and grow its membership.  
- Non-dues revenue should supplement, not replace, membership dues, ensuring that the ADA remains accountable to its members rather than corporate interests.  
- Corporate partnerships with DSOs and insurance companies create conflicts of interest, undermining the ADA’s credibility.  
- Dentists must stay involved, rather than abandoning the ADA, to push for necessary reforms.  
- Educating both members and non-members is crucial to strengthening organized dentistry and advocating for fair policies.  

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