NDHA Legislative Update--January 2010

Your professional association has been representing you at many local and state functions.

NDHA participated in an annual healthcare legislative Meet and Greet in October at Renown Medical Center. Dental hygienists, chiropractors, physical therapists and nurses had an opportunity to talk one on one with state legislators regarding healthcare reform, access to care and regulation issues.

At the end of October our lobbyist, Neena Laxalt, provided us an opportunity to attend a wine social for Kathy McClain. This was a great way to show our appreciation for all her support of SB 320 (self regulation) during the 2009 Legislative Session.

NDHA is being sponsored to attend the American Heart Association’s “Go Red for Women” luncheon on February 5th. Representation at this function will allow members from NDHA to collaboratively work with other dental and healthcare professionals, as well as the public, to stress the importance of preventive care, good oral health and the link between oral and systemic health. The luncheon will create an informative atmosphere to encourage women to take care of their heart and be health champions at work and at home. Up to 700 people are expected to attend. Tickets are still available to purchase if you would like to attend. NDHA will also be donating a red purse for the silent auction to help with fundraising efforts for the “Go Red for Women” campaign against heart disease

And finally, NDHA continues to attend the Nevada State Board of Dental Examiners board meetings. These meetings are open to the public and are critical meetings regarding the practice of dentistry and dental hygiene. All licensed dental professionals are encouraged to attend. Meeting details can be found at nvdentalboard.org.

Please feel free to contact any board member if you have legislative concerns, ideas or would like to help out! The NDHA also has a Political Action Committee that accepts donations to help in legislative efforts to increase access to dental care, increase dental hygiene scope of practice and pursue self regulation. All donations must be specifically allocated to the NDHA PAC for legislative efforts and can be mailed to Lancette VanGuilder, please make checks out to NDHA PAC.

Please direct comments and/or donations to :

Lancette VanGuilder, RDH
4331 Roundstone Drive
Sparks, NV 89436
775-224-4323 or teethrme@sbcglobal.net