AGD was built by general dentists for general dentists, and tapping into the expertise of our colleagues is critical to understanding the needs of the profession. For this reason, twice a year, face-to-face council meetings are held so that leaders can discuss AGD’s current status and initiatives that should be implemented to ensure we continue to influence and advocate for general dentists and the needs of our membership.

In January, the Communications, Dental Education, Dental Practice, Group Benefits, Legislative and Government Affairs, Membership and PACE council members attended meetings at AGD headquarters in Chicago. The Scientific Meetings Council meets Jan. 31 and Feb. 1 in Las Vegas, the site of AGD2020. Other council meetings are scheduled throughout the year, and online meetings are also held regularly to keep projects moving.

These meetings are important because they offer members the opportunity to discuss policies and procedures in detail. For example, the Dental Practice Council annually develops position papers on issues like Medicare, healthcare reform and third party payers to ensure they are consistent with what is happening in the industry, while the Dental Education Council identifies cutting-edge continuing education opportunities and expert speakers. Other examples include the Group Benefit Council members exploring new products and services that would benefit members, and the Membership Council considering the most effective way to recruit and retain members. 

“These volunteers leave their practices and their families for a day and a half to share their insights and expertise with the organization,” explained AGD President Connie L. White, DDS, FAGD, FACD, FADI, FICD. “There are many opportunities we use throughout the year to optimize our organization and ensure we are making the right decisions to best serve general dentists. I am truly grateful to these individuals who step up and give back to AGD in this way.”

The outcomes of these meetings include detailed frameworks for the year as well as preliminary objectives for long-term initiatives. Many of the council meetings result in policy change recommendations that follow a path leading to consideration and a vote at AGD’s annual meeting, held in the fall.