Letter from ADHA: Unity Is the Path to Progress

Letter from ADHA: Unity Is the Path to Progress

The Greek philosopher Heraclitus wrote, “Nothing endures but change.” This sentiment has rung true throughout history, and a quick look at today’s dental hygiene profession shows we are no exception.

There are currently 91 bills pending related to the practice of dentistry and dental hygiene in 26 states. Even though not all pieces of pending legislation may impact each of you personally, their outcomes will have an impact on the profession as a whole. How we choose to deal with these changes will define who, and what, we are as dental hygienists moving forward.

The American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) will always be here to act as your representative voice, and to help guide you through these periods of change, be they positive or negative. But in order to make the most of opportunities as they are presented, it is important to acknowledge an element of personal responsibility, for you and ADHA.

We listen to the concerns of our members, and the dental hygiene community at large. We’re on the listservs, taking your phone calls, and answering your e-mails as we get the pulse of the issues that drive you. We know about the job shortages, as they relate to the economy, and the proliferation of dental hygiene programs which continue to saturate the job market. We’ve heard the concerns relating to alternative practice settings, including collaborative practice. We’ve listened as our fellow dental hygienists call for a national licensure, and we’re aware of the talk of the benefits and struggles associated with potential unionization. We are writing to assure you that we have heard your stories and are taking action.

In the coming months, we promise to bring you a greater variety of information. From articles in Access magazine to items in “ADHA Update,” you can expect to find how ADHA as a whole is impacting the profession. But our most important message, “Better together,” is a reminder that we can accomplish more collectively than apart. We all play a role in shaping the future of our profession—a future that is changing. So today we ask you to join us, to continue sharing your excellent feedback, and to engage with us in embracing the coming change.   

Remember, ADHA is all of us.

Caryn Solie, RDH
ADHA President

Ann Battrell, MSDH
ADHA Executive Director