CDA Highlights


CDA Responds to Recent Delta Dental Decision to Cut Premier Reimbursement Rates


In a letter from CDA President Lindsey Robinson, DDS, the association is urging Delta Dental to communicate answers to providers about its impending rate reduction.

Dr. Robinson’s message to members and the letter to Delta are posted
here.

You can find more CDA member resources and answers to questions about Delta's Premier Fee Reduction at
www.cda.org/deltafeecut.

 

Compass Resources

 
ArticlesPRACTICE MANAGEMENT by Multiple Authors on 5/16/2013
The June and July 2008 issues of the CDA Journal focus on practice management and include articles on practice transitions, financing, and leases. Read More
 
 
SamplesNON-COVERED SERVICES QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS (SAMPLE LETTER) by Greg Alterton on 5/14/2013
With the passage of AB 2275, CDA’s sponsored bill prohibiting dental plans from placing fee caps on services they do not cover, numerous questions have been asked about the effect of the bill when it becomes law. This article provides a response to the most frequently asked questions. Read More Download
Rating: 2
 
 
ToolsDENTI-CAL PROVIDER GUIDE by Greg Alterton on 5/6/2013
CDA has been working with the Department of Health Care Services Dental Benefits Program on ways to simplify providers’ participation in the program. This document identifies many of the key policies necessary to comply with the program’s requirements. Read More Download
 
Members Only
Q&AsCDA WELL-BEING PROGRAM FAQ by PSC Staff on 5/2/2013
The Well-Being Program assists dental professionals who suffer from alcohol and/or chemical dependency. It’s also a referral source for other disorders such as Bi-Polar, depression, diabetes, glaucoma, Parkinson’s, sexual addiction, sexual boundary issues and more. Read More Download
 
 
Manuals2012-2013 SAMPLE EMPLOYEE MANUAL by PSC Staff on 5/1/2013
This Employee Manual template has been updated to reflect 2012-2013 new laws. Additionally this new manual provides more assistance in the areas of social media, vacation accrual and pregnancy leave. This Manual was developed by an attorney to be used specifically in a dental office. An employee manual is one of the most important reference and communication tools between an employer and employees. It clearly describes expectations and office policies. Read More Download
Rating: 4
 
Members Only

 

Compass Resources

 
ArticlesAMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT AND DISABILITY RIGHTS LAWS by PSC Staff on 6/12/2012
An overview of dental practice responsibilities under these laws. Read More Download
 
 
ArticlesERISA PLANS: TWILIGHT ZONE OR PARALLEL UNIVERSE? by Greg Alterton on 10/11/2011
January 2010 CDA Update article Read More Download
 
 
ArticlesMANAGING EMERGENCY PATIENTS WHEN YOUR OFFICE IS CLOSED by Teresa Pichay on 4/8/2011
You know you are obligated to make reasonable arrangements for the emergency care of your patients of record. But do you know what you need to do for other individuals who have dental emergencies? Read this article for more information. Read More Download
Rating: 5

 
 
ArticlesNATIONAL HEALTH CARE REFORM TAKES PARTIAL EFFECT by Greg Alterton on 12/16/2010
A number of key provisions of federal health care reform became effective Sept. 23, six months after the legislation was signed. The new law continues to generate questions, particularly about its impact on dentistry. Read More Download
 
 
ArticlesNEW CONTINUING EDUCATION (CE) REGULATIONS ADOPTED APRIL 8, 2010 by PSC Staff on 4/18/2011
What does that mean for you? Read More
 
 
ArticlesOFFERING A DISCOUNT DENTAL PLAN IN THE PRACTICE by Greg Alterton on 12/4/2012
With a continued flat economy, dentists are looking for ways to encourage patients, particularly those with limited coverage or no coverage at all, to seek the care they need. This has resulted in some practices considering innovative approaches to help patients who are not covered by dental insurance. Read More Download
 
 
ArticlesPLANS OFTEN DENY TREATMENT OF RELATIVES by Greg Alterton on 2/7/2012
November 2006 CDA Update article. Read More Download
 
 
ArticlesPROMPT PAYMENT OF CLAIMS REQUIRED BY LAW by Greg Alterton on 11/22/2011
August 2007 CDA Update Article California’s “prompt pay” law requires preferred provider organizations and insurers to pay noncontested claims within 30 working days from the receipt of the claim. HMOs must pay within 45 days. This law went into effect in January 2001. Read More Download
 
 
ArticlesQUESTIONS AND ANSWERS REGARDING BILLING FOR MEDICARE BENEFICIARIES by CDA Staff on 12/4/2012
Under the Affordable Care Act, dentists must understand their current options and responsibilities under Medicare. This Q and A is designed to familiarize you with the terminology and forms required to comply with Medicare/Pecos for Medicare Beneficiaries. Read More Download
 
 
ArticlesRADIATION PERSONNEL MONITORS by PSC Staff on 4/8/2011
Your staff does not have to wear dosimeters all the time, as long as you can demonstrate that occupational exposure to radiation does not exceed a specific level. Read More Download
Rating: 4

 
 
ArticlesRESOURCES FOR ASSOCIATES by PSC Staff on 6/1/2012
It can be an overwhelming process for a recent graduate or new dentist beginning a career and starting practice. This Guide serves as a resource to help the new dentist navigate through his or her career from graduation to starting and managing a practice. Read More
Rating: 4

 
 
ArticlesTHE INS AND OUTS OF COLLECTIONS by PSC Staff on 11/28/2011
This article provides recommendations for creating a billing and collections system for the dental practice and outlines the options for collections that a dental practice owner should consider. Read More Download
 
 
ArticlesUSING AN IMAGING SERVICE? KNOW WHO, WHAT, AND HOW TO BILL by PSC Staff on 12/8/2011
Many radiographic services would be considered covered benefits under a contractual arrangement (PPO or DMHO) and as such, before making a referral to an imaging center it is important to verify services to be rendered and what contractual arrangements (if any) exist. Read More Download
 
 
ChecklistsCREATING YOUR PRACTICE VISION STATEMENT CHECKLIST by PSC Staff on 9/17/2012
Every leader has the capacity to be a visionary, and every dentists begins his or her career with an image of what it’s going to be like to decide how they want to practice dentistry. Read More Download
 
Members Only
ChecklistsNEW EMPLOYEE CHECKLIST by Robyn Thomason on 2/28/2013
Use this checklist to ensure all new employees are given the correct forms and provided the proper training. Read More Download
Rating: 4

 
 
ChecklistsTHE UNEXPECTED DEATH OF THE DENTIST (SOLO PRACTICE) CHECKLIST by Robyn Thomason on 10/5/2012
Along with the distress that usually accompanies the unexpected death of a business owner, there is often confusion about the roles and functions of the staff and family. Read More Download
Rating: 5

 
 
FormsDENTAL SHARPS by PSC Staff on 4/27/2011
A dental practice must keep a record of the types of sharps used, whether safety sharps are available, and the outcome of any evaluation of safety sharps. Use this form to record the required information. Read More Download
 
 
FormsPHYSICIAN'S FAX RELEASE FORM by TDIC on 8/9/2012
Sample physician's clearance for dental treatment fax communication form. Read More Download
Rating: 4

 
 
FormsWRITTEN OPINION OF HEALTH CARE EVALUATOR by PSC Staff on 11/22/2011
Provide this form to the health care provider who examines an employee following an exposure to bloodborne pathogens. Read More Download
Rating: 5

 
 
GuidesWASTE MANAGEMENT GUIDE by Teresa Pichay on 6/8/2012
This guide describes types of regulated waste in the dental office, including medical waste, hazardous waste, and universal waste. It discusses proper waste management, safe work practices, regulatory requirements, and ways to minimize waste. Read More Download
 
 
ManualsDENTAL BENEFIT PLAN HANDBOOK - UNDERSTANDING AND COMPLETING THE CLAIM FORM by PSC Staff on 1/28/2013
This Handbook serves as a guide to help the dental practice staff responsible for managing dental benefits and/or insurance. Read More Download
 
 
PodcastsASSOCIATE DENTISTS: FINDING THE RIGHT FIT PODCAST by Robyn Thomason on 3/24/2010
Whether you’re looking for an associate position or are hiring an associate to join your expanding practice, there are many considerations. Read More Download
 
 
PodcastsWHEN AND HOW TO RESPOND TO DENTAL PLAN REFUND DEMANDS PODCAST by Greg Alterton on 9/17/2012
It’s common for dental plans to demand refunds for overpayment. But not all refund demands are justified. So, how do you know when to challenge a refund demand or return the money as requested? Read More Download
Rating: 5

 
 
Q&AsHIPAA AND CALIFORNIA HEALTH INFORMATION - PRIVACY AND PROTECTION LAWS - Q AND A by Teresa Pichay on 1/3/2012
Answers to questions asked by dental offices on how to comply with HIPAA rules on privacy, security, and national provider identification (NPI). Read More Download
 
 
Q&AsINFECTION CONTROL AND CAL/OSHA by Teresa Pichay on 4/8/2011
Download frequently asked questions about infection control and Cal/OSHA regulations. Find answers to your questions on training, personal protective equipment, and Cal/OSHA inspections. Read More Download
 
 
Q&AsPROPOSITION 65 FAQ FOR DENTISTS by PSC Staff on 12/3/2012
Do you need to provide a Proposition 65 warning notice to your patients and employees? Download and read the FAQ to find out how this law may apply to your practice. Read More Download
 
 
SamplesPATIENT FOLLOW-UP LETTERS by PSC Staff on 7/3/2012
The following letters should be sent to new patients following examinations and/or treatment in your practice. Read More Download
 
 
SamplesRECEIPT OF UNSOLICITED PRODUCTS OR SERVICES by Teresa Pichay on 10/24/2012
Did you receive products you did not order, and then were invoiced for them? Have you received an invoice for advertising you did not order? Read More Download
Rating: 5

 
 
SamplesRECEIPT OF UNSOLICITED PRODUCTS OR SERVICES by Teresa Pichay on 10/24/2012
Did you receive products you did not order, and then were invoiced for them? Have you received an invoice for advertising you did not order? Read More Download
Rating: 5

 
 
SamplesSAMPLE ANNOUNCEMENT OF NEW ASSOCIATE/PARTNER by PSC Staff on 3/18/2010
This sample is a supplement to the marketing checklists. Read More Download
 
 
SamplesSAMPLE HELP WANTED AD TEXT by Robyn Thomason on 11/16/2011
Sample advertisement text for Front Office/Office Manager, DA/RDA/RDAEF and RDH Read More Download
Rating: 4

 
 
SamplesSAMPLE MARKETING CORRESPONDENCE TO LOCAL BUSINESSES by PSC Staff on 5/10/2012
This sample is a supplement to the marketing checklists. Read More Download
Rating: 4

 
 
SamplesSCHOOL ABSENCES AND SAMPLE RELEASE FORM by Teresa Pichay on 2/26/2013
Here is a sample form to use for school absences due to dental appointments. The form cites state law that allows students to be absent for dental appointments. Read More Download
 
 
SamplesSCHOOL ABSENCES AND SAMPLE RELEASE FORM by Teresa Pichay on 2/26/2013
Here is a sample form to use for school absences due to dental appointments. The form cites state law that allows students to be absent for dental appointments. Read More Download
 
 
Teaching ToolsPROACTIVE PRACTICE MANAGEMENT - MANAGING PATIENTS AND PARENTS POWERPOINT by Katie Fornelli on 4/18/2013
Miss this presentation at The Spot in Anaheim 2013? Download this presentation and take your time educating yourself and your staff! Read More Download
 
 
ToolsAMALGAM WASTE BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES by Teresa Pichay on 9/11/2012
A list of best management practices and information resources on managing amalgam waste. Read More Download
 
 
ToolsMISCELLANEOUS CAL/OSHA REGULATIONS by Teresa Pichay on 1/30/2012
This is a reprint of miscellaneous Cal/OSHA regulations pertinent to the practice of dentistry. Read More Download
 
 
ToolsPLAN DISPUTE RESOLUTION FORMS AND PROCESSES by PSC Staff on 11/27/2012
The following links are available to assist you in filing a dispute with a particular dental benefit plan. Read More
Rating: 4

 
 
ToolsREGULATORY AGENCY RESOURCES ON EMPLOYMENT ISSUES by Teresa Pichay on 5/24/2011
More than one state agency has jurisdiction on employment issues. Listed below are links to agency FAQs on various topics. Read More
 
 
ToolsSAMPLE SCHEDULE GUIDE FOR THE GENERAL PRACTICE by PSC Staff on 4/17/2012
This Excel tool will allow you to customize your ideal daily schedule. Read More Download
 
 
WebcastsPPOS THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE UGLY by Dr. Michael Perry on 8/30/2012
Live webinar featuring Michael Perry, DDS, recorded on July 26. Read More Download
Rating: 5

 
Members Only
Blog

Blogs

 
Provider Complaints Result in State Audit of Health Plans' Payments by Greg Alterton on 5/1/2013
The State Department of Managed Health Care recently reached an agreement with Anthem Blue Cross to pay physicians and other providers $3.2 million on improperly paid claims. It's a reminder of how the system of appealing payment disputes with plans works. Read More
 
Required Corporate Documents by Teresa Pichay on 4/10/2013
If you are a dental corporation, you may have received in the mail a solicitation to use a costly service to file required documents. California corporations must file annually a Statement of Information with the California Secretary of State's Office. You may file this yourself instead of paying for a service to file it for you. If you think you are a victim of a fraudulent solicitation, you can file a complaint with the state Attorney General's Office. Read More
 
X-Ray Equipment Inspection by Mail by Teresa Pichay on 3/27/2013
The state Radiological Health Branch (RHB) is sending postcard notices to dental offices in advance of inspecting their x-ray equipment. The inspections will be conducted by mail. Read More
 
Re-credentialing and Income Taxes by Patti Cheesebrough on 3/25/2013
Have you received a re-credentialing packet from one of the Dental Plans? Is the office staff aware of what to watch for and the response time required? Does the dental plan have your current address information on file? Read More
 
What Is The Correct Way To Handle Credit Balances On Patient Accounts? by Patti Cheesebrough on 2/19/2013
The California Business and Professions Code Section 732 outline the following guidelines for handling credit balances: “A dentist shall refund any amount that a patient has paid for services rendered that has subsequently been paid to the dentist by a third-party payer and that constitutes a duplicate payment. The refund shall be made as follows: Read More
 

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A dentist must have a DEA registration for each office where the dentist stores, administers or dispenses controlled substances. A separate registration is not required for an additional office where the dentist only prescribes controlled substances.

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Have a question?  Need guidance?  Not sure where to start or need help locating a resource?  We are here for you!

1201 K Street
Sacramento, CA 95814

phone: 866.232.6362
fax: 866.874.7615
e-mail:  compass@cda.org

Practice Management
Robyn Thomason
Katie Fornelli

Employment Practices
Robyn Thomason
Katie Fornelli

Dental Benefit Plans
Patti Cheesebrough

Regulatory Compliance
Teresa Pichay

Education
Mary Sobieralski

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