Federal Court Decision Casts Doubt on ADA Specialty Recognition Process

A recent federal court decision in Texas, AAID v. Parker, caused undue concern among AAE members that general dentists will be able to advertise as specialists. The opinion in AAID v. Parker does not in any way permit such advertising. However, it will likely have a significant impact on the ADA’s process for recognizing specialties.

Corporate Q&A: Treloar & Heisel, Inc.

Treloar & Heisel, Inc., is a longtime partner of the AAE and supporter of the endodontic specialty. As one of the AAE’s endorsed vendors, Treloar & Heisel provides members with specialized financial services and advice to guide them through every stage of their careers and into retirement. The Communiqué spoke with Ms. Amy Carbone, marketing director, to learn more about the company and its commitment to endodontists.

Dispelling Myths of Root Canals Through Education

Despite state-of-the-art advancements in endodontic treatment, Americans still fear the procedure. According to a recent AAE survey, 67 percent of Americans say fear of pain most concerns them about having root canal treatment.

The AAE hopes to dispel these fears during the 10th anniversary celebration of Root Canal Awareness Week, March 27-April 2.

Dr. Robert Amato Awarded Winkler Professorship in Endodontics

Robert B. Amato, D.M.D., has been selected as the second recipient of the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine Winkler Professorship in Endodontics. Financed through a generous bequest of the estate of Dr. Thomas F. Winkler III, the professorship honors faculty members who emulate Dr. Winkler’s leadership, service and dedication.

ACA Health Exchange Notice Requirement for Employees: FAQs

The Affordable Care Act includes an amendment to the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) that requires businesses that are covered under the FLSA to inform employees about 1) the existence of the new health insurance exchanges: and 2) the health care benefits currently offered.

FAQs on HCPs

Beginning October 6, 2014, hydrocodone combination products will be reclassified as Schedule II substances and subject to tighter restrictions to help reduce diversion, misuse, and abuse of prescription painkillers. HCPs affected by the new DEA rules include Vicodin, Lorcet, Lortab and Norco.

New HIPAA Rules Effective September 23, 2013

New HIPAA regulations went into effect on September 23, 2013. They require that covered entities (including dental practices) revise their notice of privacy practices (NPPs) and risk assessment procedures in event of a breach.

The AAE talked to attorney Mark Rust, managing partner of Barnes & Thornburg’s Chicago office and head of the firm’s health care department, and he highlighted the key changes that impact providers.

Sunshine Law for Payment Disclosure: FAQs

Beginning August 1, 2013, medical and dental device manufacturers are required to report certain payments to physicians and dentists under the so-called “Sunshine Law.” The Sunshine Law does not restrict interactions or collaborations but requires disclosure. While health care providers do not need to file any reports, it is important for them to understand that their names will be reported to a database annually if they have interactions that trigger reporting requirements.

Learning Takes on Many Formats at Endodontists' Annual Meeting

Registration is now open for AAE16, the annual meeting of the American Association of Endodontists, taking place April 6-9 at the Moscone Center West in San Francisco.

President’s Message: Women in Leadership: Shattering the Operatory Ceiling

The AAE Board of Directors attended the opening session at the 2015 American Dental Association meeting in Washington, D.C. ADA President Dr. Maxine Feinberg and President-Elect Dr. Carol Gomez Summerhays were insightful, dynamic, professional and poised. Watching them on stage got me thinking about dentistry and how the gender landscape, demographics and economics are changing. Along with the profession’s transformation as a result of changes in the dental marketplace, a new trend in leadership is emerging. Developing an executive team whose composition reflects its membership is of increasing importance.