Ethics summit eyes commercialism
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Posted March 20, 2006 |
By Jennifer Garvin The ADA and American College of Dentists held a Joint Summit on Commercialism Feb. 28-March 1 at ADA Headquarters.
Dr. Gordon Christensen delivered the keynote speech, "Commercialism in Dentistry, 2006," addressing the increased demand for cosmetic dentistry, the changing demographics of dentistry, over-treatment and informed consent.
During the summit, leaders from the ADA, ACD and other professional dental organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and Academy of General Dentistry, identified and discussed the possible consequences of negative commercialism on the dental profession and public. Representatives from the insurance, practice management and dental product manufacturers also attended the summit, held for the first time as a joint ADA-ACD event.
"It was a timely event that demonstrated organized dentistry's concern for ethics, patient autonomy and evidence-based patient care," said Dr. James W. Antoon, chair of the ADA's Council on Ethics, Bylaws and Judicial Affairs.
"The summit allowed dental leaders from a variety of backgrounds to address a very difficult subject, one with definite ethical overtones," said Dr. Stephen A. Ralls, ACD executive director. "It gave the commercialism issue much needed visibility."
During discussions, attendees made recommendations, some of which will be addressed at future CEBJA meetings. Following the event, the CEBJA met to discuss possible ADA initiatives intended to reduce the impact of negative commercialism through patient and member education.
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