Crystal ball gazing: 2012 and beyond R
ecently, I marked the six-month anniversary of my new role at MDA. Time has flown by, and it was not without plenty of surprises. But, then again, I like being surprised. I’ve always thought it takes one “orbit” around the particular calendar of an organization to get a full feel for the ebbs and flows of issues and events.
For instance, after hearing about the “House” for six months, I finally witnessed this impor- tant aspect of MDA governance. It gave me more insight and appreciation for the components, the delegates, the leader- ship and the process. Important issues that affect you are being discussed and handled with great care and deliberation to ensure the best outcome for the profession of den- tistry. I particularly enjoyed hearing the annual reports from your leaders. I would encourage you to get
established and opinions are formed that will shape the years to come. I interview ND on my travels, and I love their enthu- siasm. These dentists will share in shaping the future of the MDA. How do we harness and share this enthusiasm in the light of new technology and a rapidly changing business landscape? Mentoring from more experienced doctors and empathetic con- nection with peers are key ingredients that
what advocacy means”. I love it. I want to hear your take on issues. It clarifies and strengthens my work.
The mid-level provider issue demands your attention. I’m looking forward to my first legislative session and the challenges ahead. Aaron Washburn, Dr. Nunemaker, and our whole lobby team will be on point from start to finish but they can’t do it alone. The time you spend mak- ing a call, sending a mailer, or writing a check to the PAC speaks a language that legislators un- derstand—numbers! I realize you chose to be a dentist and not a politician. That’s okay. Our team will do the heavy lifting, but some simple expressions of your passion can turn the tide for the profes- sion you love.
“I seeI your e passion and activismd r take on the
involved in the process or to come witness a House of Delegates meeting next year. It’s future shaping in real time.
As for the future, what have my first six months taught me about what to expect for the next 12? That’s a great question, and I will attempt to answer it. Hopefully, it means we continue with positive surprises. I’ve tried to look at my crystal ball and make some predictions about what I see in 2012 as I travel the state and give some at- tention to different projects.
I see an emphasis on New Dentists (ND). The first five to 10 years out of school are the most formative of the ND career. Habits are
34 focus | NOV/DEC 2011 on the horizone e issues. It clarifies and strengthensd
surface during my conversations. I’ve had consultations with Dr. Deyton about his approach in Kansas City. I’ve met with Dr. Sarah Mahaffey (who chairs the ND state committee) and with Dr. Nick Hein (the just- elected ND representative to the Board). We are pooling ideas and will try some new ap- proaches to reach our goals, but your input and participation is key. Give us a shot. Put your fingerprints on the process.
I see passion and activism on the horizon. Dentists generally are more comfortable with a hand piece than a pitchfork or pen but now is not the time for passivity. At one recent study club I attended, a dentist ended several sentences with the phrase “that’s
… I want to hear my work.”y
I see resources that benefit you and your business in very practical ways. I expect to
learn something new every day—because I’m fresh to the mix—but I’m amazed by an oddity I occur rather frequently: I will be speaking with some experienced MDA member or leader or staff and sharing something I recently discovered or learned and their response is often “I didn’t know that”. That’s not a dig at leadership, that’s a salute to how diverse and rich the resources are at your disposal.
I don’t expect everyone to know everything, but I would like to surprise you with a few items or opportunities that can enrich your membership experience with the MDA. Con- tact me about study clubs or other meet- ings, and let’s dig into the treasure together.
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