Beware: Scam targeting dentists

The ADAVB has been advised that a scam targeting dentists is still operating, following initial reports in 2017. The scam involves a person contacting dental practices through email or online ‘contact us’ forms to enquire about making a group booking. This person claims to be a hearing-impaired individual – and cannot speak on the phone for this reason – interested in making appointments for members of their family. They then ask if the practice accepts credit card and may discuss transportation to the appointment. The practice is asked to pay for transportation directly and add it the deposit amount.

At this stage, we are unaware of anyone proceeding past this point with the scammer, but experience from other industries hit in the past (such as physiotherapists, veterinarians and mechanics) tells us the scammer will pay on a stolen credit card and later request a refund. In some cases, the initial email even has a virus attached to it.

If you receive an email or web contact like this, please do not respond, and report it to Scamwatch as soon as possible.

EBA approved for specialist dentists

Our goal, achieved together.

We are very pleased to announce that the 2018-2022 EBA for specialist dentists employed at Dental Health Services Victoria (DHSV) has been approved by the Fair Work Commission for implementation.

This follows months of frustrating negotiations that commenced in 2017. Thank you to our public sector members for your courage, patience and support during this time. Your participation through voting for agreements, voting in favour of protected action, attending meetings and getting non-members on board has brought us to this point today. It is a huge step forward in respecting public dentistry and this has been achieved together.

Who is covered by the specialist dentist EBA?

Specialist dentists employed by Dental Health Services Victoria.

When does the specialist dentist EBA become effective?

This EBA will operate from 2 April 2019. Employees can expect any back pay that is owed to them, and to move to their new pay rate, from the first pay period after 2 April 2019.

What are the employment entitlements in the new EBA?

• A four-year agreement, which applies from 1 July 2018 to 30 June 2022
• Pay increases of six per cent per annum in the first two years and three per cent per annum in years three and four of the agreement
• Back-pay to 1 July 2018 based on salary increases provided in the agreement
• $2000 for reimbursement of ADAVB membership and CPD training costs (pro-rata for part-time employees, not payable to casuals)
• $2000 sign on bonus (pro rata for part-time employees, not payable to casuals)
• 12 weeks paid parental leave 
• Refer to our new FAQs below for remuneration details
• Download the new FAQs on the 2018-2022 EBA for specialist dentists employed at DHSV. 

What is the status of EBAs for dentists employed in hospitals and community health centres?

Two EBAs for general dentists employed in most public hospitals were lodged with the Fair Work Commission in October 2018 and January 2019. We are yet to receive approval due to current backlogs. We hope to have good news in the next few weeks.

We have persisted with EBA negotiations for dentists employed at community health centres (CHCs) for more than 19 months, however an agreement for all CHCs has not been reached.

Two EBAs covering seven community health centres (CHCs) were filed with the Fair Work Commission in January and March 2019, and we are awaiting a response.

The EBA for CHC employed dentists is yet to be accepted by 11 CHC employers. Despite the guarantee of state government funding, 11 CHCs, DHSV and the Department of Health and Human Services have not resolved the funding issues to provide their employee dentists with the same conditions as hospital dentists.

We appreciate that this is very frustrating for our CHC employed dentists, and we thank you for your patience and support. We will keep you updated as negotiations progress.

Not a member or have colleagues that aren't members? With entitlements like $2000 for reimbursement of ADAVB membership and CPD training costs, now is the time to join the ADAVB! 

Find out more on our membership page on our website.
Please contact Cathy Workman, Membership Officer, on 8825 4600 or cathy.workman@adavb.org for membership enquiries. 

It's never too early or too late to look after your oral health

It's never too early or too late to look after your oral health. This week we celebrated World Oral Health Day but we can continue to celebrate good oral health every day.

Brush and floss your teeth every day, avoid sugary foods and drinks and visit your dentist regularly for dental check-ups.

Visit our oral health education page and download our free oral health fact sheets.
Topics include ageing and oral health, healthy snacks, hidden sugars and teeth grinding.

Download oral health resources from the WOHD website.

Visit ADA's Your Dental Health page for helpful oral health information.

Visit the Better Health Channel and search for oral or dental health or the specific topic you are interested in.

Earth Hour 30 March 2019

Earth Hour is just over a week away on Saturday 30 March at 8.30 pm. Get involved and you’ll be joining millions of Australians taking part in the largest global environmental movement.

Individuals, schools, community groups and businesses are encouraged to take part by switching off to #Connect2Earth at 8.30pm on Saturday 30 March 2019.

There are lots of ways to get your practice involved:

• Switch off for Earth Hour and register your participation
• Find out how you can reduce the carbon footprint of your business
• Host an event for your employees in the week of Earth Hour
• Share photos of what you are doing on Earth Hour on social media
• Nominate other businesses to get involved through the #switchoffchallenge.

Register your participation in Earth Hour, and join hundreds of businesses that want to see stronger action on climate change by sending your practice logo to appear on the Earth Hour pledge wall.

More information about taking part:

https://www.earthhour.org.au/Get-Involved/business

Everyone who signs up goes into the draw for a 10-day trip from Perth to Broome.

Find out more and register:

https://www.earthhour.org.au/Get-Involved/win

Australia's love affair with sugar rots smiles

Leading health bodies call for people to rethink sugary drink this World Oral Health Day.

New figures reveal almost half of Australian children aged 5-10 experience tooth decay in their baby teeth. The Rethink Sugary Drink alliance is urging Aussies to give their teeth a break from sugary drinks and make the switch to water in a bid to protect their oral health.

The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare figures released today also reveal this trend continues into adulthood with Australians aged 15 and over having an average of nearly 13 decayed, missing or filled teeth.

Sugary drinks, such as soft drinks, sports drinks and energy drinks, are a major contributor of added sugar in Australian children’s diets and the leading cause of tooth decay.

A/Prof Matthew Hopcraft, ADAVB CEO, has seen the devastating impact sugary drinks has on children’s teeth and wants Australians to consider the consequences of drinking too many.

"I’ve seen firsthand the devastating impact tooth decay has on the health, nutrition, social and emotional wellbeing of these kids and their families. There are extreme cases where dentists are extracting all 20 baby teeth from kids as young as 3 – it’s not pretty.” A/Prof Hopcraft said.

“Some people may not realise every time they take a sip from a sugary drink they expose their teeth to an acid attack, dissolving the outer surface of our tooth enamel. This regular loss of enamel can lead to cavities and exposure of the inner layers of the tooth that may leave them feeling very sensitive and painful.

“Healthy teeth are an integral part of good oral health, enabling us to eat, speak and socialise without pain, discomfort or embarrassment. It’s disheartening to know 27% of Aussie kids feel uncomfortable about the appearance of their teeth. No kid should look back on their childhood and remember the distress and pain that came as a result of drinking too many sugary drinks.”

A/Prof Hopcraft said World Oral Health Day serves the perfect chance for Australians to rethink their choice of drink.

The ADA is a proud Rethink Sugary Drink partner.

View full media release: 
http://www.rethinksugarydrink.org.au/media/aus-love-sugary-drinks-rot-smiles-of-children.html

World Oral Health Day 2019: 
http://www.worldoralhealthday.org/about

VOHA welcomes Grattan laser shining on dental gaps

An alliance of dental health professionals, providers and consumers has welcomed the Grattan Institute report ‘Filling the dental gap: A universal dental scheme for Australia’ as a significant contribution to addressing one of the most inequitable and under-funded areas of healthcare in the country.

‘Every federal and state-based politician needs to read this report, to both understand that many people are locked out of affordable and timely care, and to see a potential way forward to treating oral health in the same way we do for the rest of the body’, said Tony McBride, Spokesperson for the Victorian Oral Health Alliance (VOHA).

‘The Grattan Institute recommendations seek dental care funding in a similar way to general healthcare. By enhancing access to primary dental care for disadvantaged population groups making it an important feature of our healthcare system, we can improve public health, as well as individual social and employment prospects.’

VOHA is strongly supportive of Grattan’s analysis, which highlights that the current system:

• treats health care for the mouth in a very different, and unequal, manner than health care for the rest of the body with no compelling medical or economic reason to do so
• is funded predominantly out of patients’ pockets (in stark contrast to most other health care), which is a potential barrier for many people accessing care
• includes public dental schemes, which are inadequately funded and inequitable across jurisdictions, with most states having waiting lists of well over a year for public dental care (Victoria’s average is 20 months), with the consequential worsening of people’s oral health
• resulted in approximately 2 million people nationally who needed dental care in the past year either didn’t get or delayed getting it because of the cost, with low-income people being the most likely to miss out on care.

Find out more:

Download VOHA 19 March 2019 media release

Media coverage

VOHA members

• Australian Dental and Oral Health Therapists’ Association Victoria (ADOHTA Vic)
• Australian Dental Association Victorian Branch (ADAVB)
• Australian Dental Prosthetists Association (ADPA)
• Brotherhood of St Laurence
• cohealth
• COTA Victoria
• Health Issues Centre
• IPC Health
• North Richmond Community Health
• Star Health
• Victorian Alcohol & Drug Association (VAADA)
• Victorian Healthcare Association

World Oral Health Day

It's World Oral Health Day on Wednesday 20 March. This year's theme is 'Act on Mouth Health'. Your mouth is a mirror to your body and reflects your general health and well-being.

Avoid risk factors, adopt good oral hygiene habits and have regular dental check-ups to help protect your mouth and body.

Encourage your patients to #SayAhh and act on mouth health for World Oral Health Day. Get your practice involved by rewarding your patients with a free oral health kit of sample items on the day, or preparing some fresh fruit and veggie snacks for the waiting room.

Download resources for your practice:

• Act on Mouth Health video
• Advertisement in different languages
• Oral health care for children and adults fact sheets
• Act on Mouth Health Kids poster
• WOHD checklists and tips: http://www.worldoralhealthday.org/2019/good-oral-care-checklists

Promotional resources are available at http://www.worldoralhealthday.org/campaign-year/2019

World Oral Health Day is celebrated globally every year on 20 March. It is organised by FDI World Dental Federation and is the largest global awareness campaign on oral health.

WOHD spreads messages about good oral hygiene practices to adults and children alike and demonstrates the importance of optimal oral health in maintaining general health and well-being.


Each year, WOHD focuses on a specific theme and reaches out to the public, oral health professionals, and policymakers, who all have a role to play in helping reduce the burden of oral disease.

Get started on your bursary application!

ADAVB BOQ Specialist $10,000 CPD Practice Bursary

The 2019 ADAVB and BOQ Specialist CPD Practice Bursary is available for ADAVB members in private practice. This practice bursary recognises and supports dental practices that are committed to quality learning through continuing professional development for every practitioner and professional staff member in the practice.

The bursary consists of a grant valued at $10,000 to be used for professional development and training purposes only, of which:

• $2,000 is to be applied to any CPD courses and/or training programs offered by ADAVB and
• $8,000 is to be applied to any CPD and/or training programs offered by other providers.

Get started on your applications and this could be you in 2019!

"It was an unquestionable surprise and privilege to be considered for the 2018 ADAVB BOQ Specialist CPD Practice Bursary. We take great pride in our continuing professional development for all roles at our practice, therefore this grant is very much appreciated and is greatly contributing to our staff training. The advantages of ongoing training and development not only benefit your staff, but the practice as a whole and this will be reflected in the experience your patients receive."
- Dr Sath Saranathan, 2018 Practice Bursary recipient

NEW! ADAVB BOQ Specialist $5000 Recent Graduate Bursary
Supporting the professional development of young dentists

The ADAVB BOQ Specialist Recent Graduate Bursary will support the career growth of a young dentist through financial support for continuing education courses. The bursary recognises a recent graduate who demonstrates a commitment to high quality ongoing professional development.

ADAVB members that registered in Australia for the first time between 2011-2019 are welcome to apply. The bursary consists of $5,000 to be spent on courses at ADAVB for professional development and must be spent between September 2019 and September 2021.

Applications for both bursaries close Monday 8 July 2019 5.00 pm and can be made online, via email or in hard copy. Eligibility criteria apply.

Find out more and apply: https://bursary.adavb.org/

WorkSafe is seeking applications for Clinical Panel Register

WorkSafe Victoria invites qualified medical and allied health professionals to apply for positions on their Clinical Panel Register. The Panel will provide advisory services relating to clinical and rehabilitation support and advice to WorkSafe claims staff, agents and healthcare providers. Timely and appropriate return to work and improved health outcomes for injured workers are the Panel’s key objective.

The Panel will provide advice on individual claims and contribute to the broader development of WorkSafe’s policies and initiatives to improve health service provision.

Panel members will be appointed under an initial contract term of two years beginning 1 July 2019 with an option to extend.

Those interested are welcome to attend optional briefing sessions:

Monday 18 March 2019, 7:30am or 5pm at Batman’s Hill on Collins, 623 Collins Street, Melbourne.

To register and submit any preliminary questions prior to the sessions, contact cassandra.boyd@worksafe.vic.gov.au and confirm your preferred session.

The registration and recruitment process opened on Thursday 7 March 2019 and closes on Wednesday 3 April 2019, 5:00pm. To apply for a position on the Panel, visit www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/clinical-panel.

UPDATE
Closing date for applications has been extended to 9am, 8 April 2019.

Celebrating our leading ADAVB women - HSLP graduate, Dr Emily Pow

With so many leading ADAVB women why stop at International Women's Day with our celebration of ADAVB women? We spoke to Dr Emily Pow, graduate of the Health Sector Leadership Program, previous co-chair of the Recent Graduates and Students Committee and current CPD Committee representative.

What motivated you to study dentistry? Have you ever been constrained by perceptions about what women ‘can’t’ do?
My motivation to study dentistry stemmed from my own experience of how having braces had changed my confidence. I used to be a very shy girl and once the braces came off things started to change! I could see firsthand the difference it made in my life and wanted to make a difference in other people's lives too.

I was not really constrained by what women can’t do, in fact going to an all-girls high school gave me a real ‘can do’ attitude. Girls in my high school all motivated each other to achieve their very best so I was very fortunate to be part of a group of women with high aspirations.

Describe some of the inspiring women in your life that have made an impact on you.
My mum has been always been an inspiration. Being a migrant she has gone through many obstacles to be where she is now - a successful corporate woman. I have also been fortunate to have been surrounded by high-achieving female friends who are kicking goals in their own fields. They have inspired me to work hard and we support each other to keep growing.

What influenced you to join an ADAVB Committee? Have you been involved in other committees or ADAVB programs?
After being President of the Bendigo Oral Health and Dentistry Society as a dentistry student I was invited to join the ADAVB Recent Graduates and Students committee the following year. Since then my eyes were opened up to the array of committees the ADAVB has to help connect the profession. After graduating in 2015, I have joined the Sports & Social Committee as well as becoming a recent graduate representative for the CPD Committee. I was also a graduate of the Health Sector Leadership Program in 2016.

Tell us about where you see your leadership journey taking you.
I’m not sure but I’m excited to find out!

Describe some of the highlights of your role as Co-Chair of the RGS Committee. 
Having  a record number of attendees for the recent graduates and students annual cocktail event was certainly a highlight! It’s always a fantastic night that brings peers together, which is important in a profession that can be isolating at times.

What do you enjoy/are you looking forward to about your role on the CPD Committee?
I am enjoying learning how hard the CPD Committee works to bring the multitude of events to their members and I am looking forward to bringing a fresh recent graduate approach to the committee.

What do you say to women considering taking the step into leadership with the ADAVB?
Women at the ADAVB and in the profession have always been so encouraging of me and I am sure they would do the same for any other young female graduate! There are many opportunities in the ADAVB, you just have to dip your toe in to find out.

Further information:

Contact a councillor: council.adavb.org

Contact a committee member: adavb.net

Nominate for a committee role (ADAVB login required): adavb.net

Nominate for the Health Sector Leadership Program: hslp.adavb.org

Apply for the ADAVB BOQ Specialist $10,000 Practice Bursary or $5000 Recent Graduate CPD Bursary: bursary.adavb.org

Find your ADAVB Regional Group: adavb.net

Celebrating leading ADAVB women - HSLP graduate, Dr Elice Chen

Our International Women's Day leading ADAVB women profiles continue this week. We spoke to Dr Elice Chen, graduate of the Health Sector Leadership Program and member of the Public Dentistry Committee.

What motivated you to study dentistry? Have you ever been constrained by perceptions about what women ‘can’t’ do?
I wasn’t entirely sure what I wanted to do after school, but I always liked applied arts, science and education, and dentistry felt like it would tick these boxes. To be honest there was a moderate amount of prodding from my parents as well. The dentist we went to growing up was also a woman from Taiwan so becoming a dentist didn’t seem like an unattainable possibility.

Attending an all-girls school, we were taught that we could achieve whatever we wanted in any field. But we were asked to do it in a “lady-like manner”. Perhaps the constraint is less about what women can or can’t do, but that there are different expectations on how we should do it.

Describe some of the inspiring women in your life that have made an impact on you. 
My mum is an incredible woman – moving to a foreign country in her 30s, learning a new language, working side by side with dad and making ends meet with two little kids. It’s a common migrant story of sacrifice and resilience, but it is no less amazing for it.

Can I say also Lisa Simpson?! I know she’s not real but I watched A LOT of The Simpsons as a kid and I liked her unashamed nerdiness and courage in wanting to do the right thing. She was such an interesting mix of strengths and vulnerabilities.

What influenced you to join an ADAVB Committee? Have you been involved in other committees or ADAVB programs?
I have always been dismayed that the people who need the most dental care are often the people with the least access to it. Since graduating in 2008, I have continued to work in the public sector, with an emphasis on a preventive approach. I joined the ADAVB Public Dentistry Committee (PDC) in my fourth year out, curious to see how decisions are made and hoping to put in my two cents in advocating for patients and staff in the public sector.

Last year I was really happy to be selected for the ADAVB Health Sector Leadership Program, delivered by Leadership Victoria. I met a lot of other keen allied health professionals and it opened my eyes to a variety of self-management, team management and communication techniques.

Tell us about where you see your leadership journey taking you.
My leadership journey is really just at the beginning. I would really like to see public dentistry in Victoria taken seriously – we need to value the vulnerable in our community and we need to value all the staff that support the system. It would also be great to contribute to a broader preventive health approach by working with allied health professionals to target groups with common risk factors.

Describe some of the highlights of your role as Vice-Chair of the Public Dentistry Committee.
Throughout my time on the PDC, I have been amazed at the support we have received from the ADAVB through engaging Professionals Australia to negotiate the EBA for public dentists. There have been many ups and downs, but it has been very heartening to see colleagues rally for the public sector. The networking events have been great fun too!

What do you say to women considering taking the step into leadership with the ADAVB?
Definitely go for it! Don’t be daunted by the prospect. A thriving organisation needs diversity and you will be supported if you are interested.

Further information

Contact a councillor: council.adavb.org

Contact a committee member: adavb.net

Nominate for a committee role (ADAVB login required): adavb.net

Nominate for the Health Sector Leadership Program: hslp.adavb.org

Apply for the ADAVB BOQ Specialist $10,000 Practice Bursary or $5000 Recent Graduate CPD Bursary: bursary.adavb.org

Find your ADAVB Regional Group: adavb.net

Celebrating leading ADAVB women - Dr Kaya Kapusta

International Women's Day may be over, but we have so many wonderful leading women that make up the ADAVB, that we're continuing our celebration profiles this week. We spoke to Dr Kaya Kapusta, Victorian Representative on ADA's Recent Graduates Advisory Panel and Vice Co-Chair of the ADAVB Recent Graduates and Students Committee (RGSC). 

What motivated you to study dentistry? Have you ever been constrained by perceptions about what women ‘can’t’ do?
I always wanted to work in the health sciences, particularly in a job which has a surgical component, and a lot of interaction with other people. The flexibility in the hours appealed to me over shift work or being on call. Dentistry fits everything I wanted in a career, and it’s a unique mix of creativity and science, which I really enjoy.
Hard work and perseverance have always been emphasised to me as the keys to achieve success, with gender having no bearing on it. Throughout my time at university in particular, I had the opportunity to meet so many passionate, driven and accomplished women who further encouraged to seize opportunities that came my way.

Describe some of the inspiring women in your life that have made an impact on you. 
My mum is the first woman that comes to mind. She is driven, intelligent and carries herself with integrity. She is an overseas trained medical doctor who completed her GP training in Australia while raising a family, and through her example she has taught me strength and resilience, and has shown me that with perseverance and determination there are no barriers to what you can achieve.
I’ve also been fortunate to have a mentor since my final year of dentistry who has shaped my perspective of the profession. Not only has she been a limitless source of knowledge and guidance regarding the profession, she has helped ignite my passion for my career. Most importantly, she has shown me that you can have a successful, fulfilling and exciting life outside of dentistry while your career flourishes!

What influenced you to join an ADAVB Committee? Have you been involved in other committees or ADAVB programs?
During my time at university, I had the opportunity to experience the benefits and support provided by mentoring and collegiality among dental professionals and peers.

I joined the ADAVB RGSC in the same year I graduated (2017). The RGSC does a great job in facilitating the transition to the dental profession from university, which can be a difficult and daunting time. I also wanted to be a voice for recent graduates and help the ADAVB address and overcome the challenges and demands they face within the early stages of their career.

In addition to my role with the RGSC, I am also the Victorian Representative of the ADA Recent Graduates Advisory Panel, and have taken part in ADAVB programs such as the Mentoring Program in my first year after graduation.

Tell us about where you see your leadership journey taking you.
I would like to continue being an active part of the ADA through various committees, and to continue advocating for the members of the dental profession. I would also like to take up mentoring and teaching roles in the future, as these are two areas I am particular passionate about.

Describe some of the highlights of your role as Vice Co-Chair of the RGS Committee or what you are looking forward to.
My favourite aspect by far has been organising events and initiatives for students and recent graduates. Events like the ADAVB cocktail party are a great way to get everyone more involved, not just with the ADAVB, but also the wider dentistry community. And the chance to catch up with peers, when it’s so easy to lose contact with each other, is just as important! 

What do you say to women considering a taking the step into leadership with the ADAVB?
Absolutely do it! There are so many different opportunities available for leadership within the ADAVB that you can find something that you are passionate about. It’s a great way for your voice to be heard, and to form networks within the community.

Further information

Contact a councillor: council.adavb.org

Contact a committee member: adavb.net

Nominate for a committee role (ADAVB login required): adavb.net

Nominate for the Health Sector Leadership Program: hslp.adavb.org

Apply for the ADAVB BOQ Specialist $10,000 Practice Bursary or $5000 Recent Graduate CPD Bursary: bursary.adavb.org

Find your ADAVB Regional Group: adavb.net

Celebrating leading ADAVB women on International Women's Day - Dr Ramini Shankumar

We continue our spotlight on leading ADAVB women for IWD 2019, this time speaking with Dr Ramini Shankumar, previous chair of our Public Dentistry Committee. 

What motivated you to study dentistry? 
As a child I hated going to a dentist.  So I thought I’d become a dentist to change everyone’s perception of dentistry.

Were you ever constrained by perceptions about what women ‘can’t’ do?
Not really.  I am very optimistic and always believe that nothing is impossible. My only concern was as a woman whether I could balance a family and professional life.

Describe some of the inspiring women in your life that have made an impact on you. 
My mother. She has instilled good values in me. She was a calm person and always talked about positive things. She helped me to become the best version of myself. Her favourite advice was, “If you help others, then God will help your own.”  Sadly she passed away in 1986.

How has the dentistry workforce changed since you studied and throughout your career?
In my early career there was a shortage of dentists. But in recent years there has been over supply.  The number and composition of dental personnel in the workforce has changed over the years. There has been increasing numbers of women in the dental workforce.

Tell us about your pathway throughout your leadership journey. 
Initially I worked in a private practice for six months. I started with Monash Health in 1991 as a single dentist and progressed to the current position as a Director responsible for the management of 32 chair clinics across eight sites with 130 staff and providing services for 28,000 patients per year. I have recently been appointed as an adjunct lecturer at Monash University with the Department of Medicine.

Describe some of the highlights of your role as the previous Chair of the Public Dentist Committee and your current leadership role.

• Strongly advocated to ADAVB council for increased EBA support of public dentists
• Organised successful informative networking events to engage public sector dentists
• Worked on increasing awareness of ADAVB contribution to public dental health
• Worked with Professionals Australia and committee members on EBA negotiations
• Met a local member of parliament to raise issues relating to remuneration of public sector dentists. 

What do you say to women considering taking the step into leadership with the ADAVB?
It’s exciting to see women considering leadership roles. My advice is, “Be ready to tackle challenges but do not give up. Be bold. Raise your hands in meetings, speak up and be heard.”

Further information

Contact a councillor: council.adavb.org

Contact a committee member: adavb.net

Join our mentoring program (ADAVB login required. Applications extended to 8 March): mentoring.adavb.org

Nominate for a committee role (ADAVB login required): adavb.net

Nominate for the Health Sector Leadership Program: hslp.adavb.org

Apply for the ADAVB BOQ Specialist $10,000 Practice Bursary or $5000 Recent Graduate CPD Bursary: bursary.adavb.org

Find your ADAVB Regional Group: adavb.net

Happy International Women's Day from Dr Gitika Sanghvi, ADAVB Vice President, and all of us at the ADAVB! We've really enjoyed celebrating leading ADAVB women this week and have more to come. We're proud of our ADAVB Council and committees and welcome more women to get involved.

Today, and every day, take the step and put yourself forward for the opportunities that the ADAVB offers to get involved in your profession.

Contact a councillor: council.adavb.org

Contact a committee member: adavb.net

Join our mentoring program (ADAVB login required. Applications extended to 8 March): mentoring.adavb.org

Nominate for a committee role (ADAVB login required): adavb.net

Nominate for the Health Sector Leadership Program: hslp.adavb.org

Apply for the ADAVB BOQ Specialist $10,000 Practice Bursary or $5000 Recent Graduate CPD Bursary: bursary.adavb.org

Find your ADAVB Regional Group: adavb.net

Celebrating leading ADAVB women on International Women's Day - Dr Jo-Anne Cherry

In the lead up to International Women's Day on Friday 8 March, we're profiling the leadership journeys of leading ADAVB women. We spoke to ADAVB Past President and former committee member, Dr Jo-Anne Cherry.

What motivated you to study dentistry? Were you ever constrained by perceptions about what women ‘can’t’ do?
While I was in secondary school, I enjoyed science-based subjects and I knew these would be prerequisites for the career in health care I was keen to pursue. I remember investigating many different career options before deciding dentistry was my first choice. I knew it would involve a long and demanding course of study, and that achieving the entry score would be a challenge.

Describe some of the inspiring women in your life that have made an impact on you. 
I was inspired by a gifted and enthusiastic chemistry teacher in high school. Her lessons were carefully prepared with summaries and revision so complex concepts could be understood and remembered. She inspired others too. Three of my classmates went on to become science teachers.
Once I started studying dentistry at the University of Melbourne in 1975, I encountered many other inspiring women: lecturers, course conveners, postgraduate students and demonstrators. Over the course of five years I became close to the other female students. There were 10 of us out of a total of 50. I believe this was a record number for the school. In an era when significant numbers of  dental students dropped out of the course, all 10 of us graduated.

How has the dentistry workforce changed since you studied and throughout your career?
The cohort of dental students has changed radically since we graduated in 1979. At the University of Melbourne there are 90 to 95 students per year level and at least half of them women. There are many international students and all students are at least 21 years of age at commencement of the four-year course as they have all completed basic science degrees. The workforce has changed radically too, with private practices becoming larger and employing both dentists and auxiliaries (dental therapists and dental hygienists).

Tell us about your pathway throughout your leadership journey. 
I have been an ADAVB member since graduation and served on my first ADAVB committee in 2001. When I started attending meetings of the Infection Control Committee, I became aware of how much work goes on behind the scenes to inform and educate our members and how much of this is done by volunteers.

Describe some of the highlights of your role as ADAVB President.
I was pleased to be elected to ADAVB Council in 2010, and here I was helped and encouraged by female past presidents, as well as our wonderful staff at the Branch. During 2013-2014 I served as ADAVB President. I was the sixth woman to take on the challenge.
This was a year when we strengthened ties with Victoria’s two dental schools, dental students, recent graduates and our regional groups. We wound up some committees and expanded others. Looking back, changes were small yet significant. My favourite example is our Sports Committee - experts at arranging events for us to enjoy, now even better and more inclusive with two female members on board.
The ADAVB Council functions well, with lively but respectful discussions the norm. Our Council is well known for innovation; some of our great ideas have been adopted by other ADA Branch Councils and the Federal ADA.

What do you say to women considering taking the step into leadership with the ADAVB?
We can be proud of the diversity around our boardroom table. So, women, if you want to have a say, or learn more about your profession and your association, I encourage you to contact past or present  councillors and committee members for more information. Your ideas and your enthusiasm will guide our profession in the future.

Further information

Contact a councillor: council.adavb.org

Contact a committee member: adavb.net

Join our mentoring program (ADAVB login required. Applications extended to 8 March): mentoring.adavb.org

Nominate for a committee role (ADAVB login required): adavb.net

Nominate for the Health Sector Leadership Program: hslp.adavb.org

Apply for the ADAVB BOQ Specialist $10,000 Practice Bursary or $5000 Recent Graduate CPD Bursary: bursary.adavb.org

Find your ADAVB Regional Group: adavb.net

Celebrating leading ADAVB women on International Women's Day - Dr Rachel Martin

Today's leading ADAVB woman is Dr Rachel Martin, Chair of the ADAVB Public Dentistry Committee. Read all about Rachel's leadership journey as we celebrate International Women's Day this week.

What motivated you to study dentistry? Were you ever constrained by perceptions about what women ‘can’t’ do?
I wanted to work in a field of health where I could really make a difference in people’s lives.  My parents were both health professionals and both were able to create unique career pathways in  their respective careers.

As the second born of six children I grew up wedged between my two brothers. I was determined to do everything they could do. So, I played a lot of cricket - usually fielding on the boundary, where I was inevitably perched halfway up a tree in our back yard, or out in the waves at the beach.

Describe some of the inspiring women in your life that have made an impact on you. 
My mother was a woman of abundant grace and determination. She quietly set about further study whilst the six of us were still at school. As a practising physiotherapist, she soon earned herself a theology degree and moved into the world of ethics. She created the inaugural role of bioethicist at Mercy Hospital, where she worked with families and clinicians, patiently supporting them through some of the most heart wrenching issues of life and death, until her early passing at the age of 57.

How has the dentistry workforce changed since you studied and throughout your career?
When I studied, the emphasis was on dentists treating patients. Over my working life, there has been a shift towards a team approach where collaboration between all members of the oral health and wider health team occurs whilst working in partnership with the consumer. This, along with a preventive approach, is the change that will make the biggest difference to oral health outcomes for our community.

Tell us about your pathway throughout your leadership journey. 
I didn’t think a lot about leadership until the last year or two, when I realised that some of what I had been doing was probably called ‘leadership’. Really, what has led me along this pathway has been a passionate conviction that change is needed in our approach to oral health care. I am very fortunate to have wonderful colleagues and mentors that are with me on the journey. Leadership is not a solitary journey. It takes a team, and I am very fortunate to be a part of an inspiring and committed team.

Describe some of the highlights of your role as Chair of the Public Dentistry Committee.
Seeing the culmination of the process for the new EBA for Victorian public dentists, which provides the largest incremental increase in salaries for public dentists that I have seen in my lifetime. Yet this still sees us well below our interstate counterparts.

What do you say to women considering taking the step into leadership with the ADAVB?
Embrace the opportunity to be supported in roles within the ADAVB. ADAVB has excellent resources to help build leadership skills. It’s far less of a men’s club than when I was a young dentist.

Further information

Contact a councillor: council.adavb.org

Contact a committee member: adavb.net

Join our mentoring program (ADAVB login required. Applications extended to 8 March): mentoring.adavb.org

Nominate for a committee role (ADAVB login required): adavb.net

Nominate for the Health Sector Leadership Program: hslp.adavb.org

Apply for the ADAVB BOQ Specialist $10,000 Practice Bursary or $5000 Recent Graduate CPD Bursary: bursary.adavb.org

Find your ADAVB Regional Group: adavb.net

Celebrating leading ADAVB women on International Women's Day - Dr Susan Wise

In the lead up to International Women's Day on Friday 8 March, we're profiling the leadership journeys of leading ADAVB women. We spoke to ADAVB Immediate Past President and ADAVB Defence Committee member, Dr Susan Wise.

What motivated you to study dentistry? Were you ever constrained by perceptions about what women ‘can’t’ do?

My year 7 maths teacher mentioned that two of her daughters were studying dentistry. It was a “lightbulb” moment that “a girl can be a dentist”. I wanted a career that was creative, science-based, where I could meet lots of interesting people and make a difference. Dentistry certainly fits the bill.

Describe some of the inspiring women in your life that have made an impact on you.

• Professor Louise Brierley Messer was my paediatric dentistry professor when I was an undergraduate dentistry student. Professor Brierley Messer was a great role model for the female dental students. 
• Dr Louise Brown was the first female president of the Australian New Zealand Academy of Periodontics and a trail blazer and great mentor for the younger generation of female periodontists.
• My Nana Freda was born in 1906, a full-time working mum and very independent. Nana Freda wholeheartedly believed that girls should be educated.
• My great aunt Bessie, a tiny and feisty Holocaust survivor. 

How has the dentistry workforce changed since you studied and throughout your career?

Certainly, there are many more female dentists since I graduated almost 25 years ago. I don’t get asked if I am the “dental nurse” anymore! 

Tell us about your pathway throughout your leadership journey. 

I was the President of Alpha Omega (Jewish Dental Society) in Melbourne prior to moving to Brisbane to study periodontics. I subsequently become the President of the Sydney Alpha Omega group when I lived there in 2003 and 2004. 

When I returned home to Melbourne, I was appointed to and chaired the ADAVB Oral Health Committee from 2005 to 2009 and became the President of the Australian Society of Periodontology  Victorian Branch. 

My classmate, Matt Hopcraft, was the President’s representative on the Oral Health Committee. Matt would speak about ADAVB Council and its role in decision-making for the ADAVB. I thought it sounded interesting so I nominated for and was elected onto the ADAVB Council in 2010. I joined the Executive in 2014 and was ADAVB President from 2017 to 2018.

I did not renominate for Council at the recent elections and will be ending my involvement on ADAVB Council in June 2019. I am still very busy as I am now on the ADAVB Defence Committee, was recently elected as a Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons Councillor and President of the Korean Adoption Families Victoria and am also helping to organise my 30-year school reunion and 25-year dentistry reunion.

Describe some of the highlights of your role as ADAVB President during 2017/18. 

There were so many highlights:

• Attending functions on behalf of the ADAVB
• My weekly visits to the ADAVB office and chats with the fabulous ADAVB staff
• Meeting my local MP
• Trips to Bendigo for La Trobe Uni functions
• Going to Sydney for Federal Council and catching up with the other Branch Presidents
• Being the Victorian face of the female dentist for an article in “The Age” and interviewed by Hilary Harper on ABC Melbourne about Mouthguards.
• Matt Hopcraft became CEO of the ADAVB, 10 days after starting my Presidency. The first few weeks was a huge learning curve for both of us! The ADAVB Strategic Plan was completely revised making it more succinct and relevant with clear goals and key performance indicators. This flowed on to the Council and Executive meetings which became more decision focused. 
• I was really proud that a parental leave membership class was introduced at both federal and branch levels during my presidency. Many thanks to the female dentists who advocated for this membership category.

What do you say to women considering taking the step into leadership with the ADAVB?

Go for it! If anyone told me I would be the president of the ADAVB when I first joined the ADA 25 years ago, I would have thought they were crazy. I am really excited that Dr Gitika Sanghvi will be our eighth female ADAVB president in June 2019.

Further information

Contact a councillor: council.adavb.org

Join our mentoring program (ADAVB login required. Applications extended to 8 March): mentoring.adavb.org

Nominate for a committee role (ADAVB login required): adavb.net

Nominate for the Health Sector Leadership Program: hslp.adavb.org

Apply for the ADAVB BOQ Specialist $10,000 Practice Bursary or $5000 Recent Graduate CPD Bursary: bursary.adavb.org

Find your ADAVB Regional Group: adavb.net

Stop work action continues as CHCs refuse to sign on to new agreement

The ADAVB and Professionals Australia have persisted with EBA negotiations for ADAVB members employed in community health centres (CHCs) for more than 19 months, however an agreement is yet to be reached.

Despite the guarantee of state government funding, nine CHCs, Dental Health Services Victoria and the Department of Health and Human Services have not resolved the funding issues to provide their employee dentists with the same conditions as hospital dentists.  The one-hour work stoppages are a vital step in encouraging all parties to urgently address any queries they have about the funding mechanism supporting the proposed agreement, and accept the agreement terms and conditions, which include:

• Pay increases of six per cent per annum in the first two years and three per cent per annum in years three and four of the agreement. 
• Back-pay to 1 July 2018 based on salary increases provided in the agreement. 
• $2000 for reimbursement of ADAVB membership and CPD training costs (pro rata for part-time employees, not payable to casual employees). 
• $2000 sign on bonus for those who were employed at 1 July 2018 (pro rata for part-time employees, not payable to casual employees) 
• Additional salary increases for all level 3 employees and employees at level 4a. 
• Introduction of hybrid clinical and managerial positions at Levels 4 and 5 to acknowledge the additional responsibility and work these roles entail. 

CHCs where work-stoppages are planned: 

One-hour stop works are being scheduled for ADAVB members, who have nominated ADAVB as their bargaining representative, and are employed at any of the following CHCs:

• Access Health and Community 
• Banyule Community Health Service  
• Connect Health and Community 
• EACH 
• Inspiro 
• IPC Health 
• Merri Health Your Community Health 
• Sunbury Community Health Service 

It’s not too late to get involved 

Are you an employee at one of the above mentioned CHCs? You must be an ADAVB member to participate in the stop work action. Please encourage your fellow members to also participate. If you or any of your colleagues aren’t yet members and would like to take part, you must join and nominate ADAVB as your bargaining representative.

To join the ADAVB email ask@adavb.org or call 03 8825 4600. Existing members that have not  already nominated ADAVB as their bargaining representative can email: nominate@adavb.org   

Currently, seven CHCs have agreed to implement the public hospital sector agreement. We commend these CHCs:

• Sunraysia Community Health Services
• North Richmond Community Health
• Nillumbik Community Health Service
• Central Bayside Community Health
• Latrobe Community Health Services
• cohealth
• Link Health and Community.

This agreement will ensure every dentist in the public sector is paid fairly and treated with the respect they deserve, regardless of whether they work in a hospital or community health centre.

#RespectPublicDentistry so that everyone can smile

Celebrating leading ADA women on International Women's Day - Dr Angie Nilsson

In the lead up to International Women's Day on Friday 8 March we continue our spotlight on leading ADA women. This time we spoke to ADATas President, Dr Angie Nilsson.

What motivated you to study dentistry? Were you ever constrained by perceptions about what women ‘can’t’ do? 

My plans of being the next Ennio Morricone and writing film scores was thwarted when my piano teacher came back from a dental appointment and said, “Don’t bother with music go into dentistry”! I took this as a hint that my talents were better developed elsewhere. I haven’t felt constrained within myself, but have absolutely been told as a clinician that I can’t do certain things or work in certain areas because I’m a woman. I like the challenge of proving otherwise. 

Describe some of the inspiring women in your life that have made an impact on you. 

My mum has been my most inspiring hero. She’s a tiny, beautiful Greek woman who has worked hard as a mother, dressmaker, deli assistant, mature-age student and teacher. Sometimes she did these jobs all at the same time. She displays strength and integrity in everything she does. I’m drawn to Eleanor Roosevelt as well and love her quote, “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent”.

How has the dentistry workforce changed since you studied and throughout your career?

As a British graduate in 2003, the turnout of students was gender equal and females were starting to surpass males in numbers. Now in Australia 2019 this is just starting to happen so from my own personal view it’s been static. What’s changed I think is an appetite to have more change and to see better representation of females in leadership and executive positions.

Tell us about your pathway throughout your leadership journey. 

I was born in the Chinese year of the ram. I had never considered myself a leader and was happy to be a sheep. Being ADATas president has not only allowed me a voice as a leader but also has highlighted to me the continuing disparities in organisations. A year ago I was successful in gaining a scholarship in a leadership course from Women in Leadership Australia. What I’ve since realised is that you can lead regardless of your title or role and positive change can occur if you don’t allow apathy and isolation to take hold. 

Describe some of the highlights of your role as ADATas President.

I’ve been so lucky to be part of a council that is inclusive and diverse. Being one of a team with united vision has been a joy. My passion for advocacy in aged care oral health has also meant that I can use my limited time as president to give voice to those who can’t. 

What do you say to women considering a taking the step into leadership with the ADA?

I would say be prepared for some disappointments, some hurdles, and some knocks to your ego. See these not as losses but as challenges for positive change. I would quote Mrs Roosevelt, “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent”.