Issue 57 December 2020-January 2021
The official newsletter of the Dental Hygienists Association of Australia Ltd
2020 A YEAR OF HYGIENE IN
REVIEW We look back at the positives of a forgettable year
Find the perfect career fit
Techniques to manage your next interview
Take control of your future
New scopes will provide opportunity
STATE ROUND-UP Find out what’s happening in your local area
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2020 – What a year you've been A YEAR THAT started with the country on fire and then only got worse as we progressed into a global pandemic. A year when we social distanced, worked and schooled remotely, and maybe bought slightly more toilet paper than we needed (hey – no judgement here.) There was no travel, no gathering to celebrate life’s milestones, and for some no work and no income. There was however plenty of stress, anxiety, sleepless nights, and an unprecedented use of the word ‘unprecedented.’ So, bring on 2021! A fresh year, a chance to wipe the slate clean and start over. But before we rush out of 2020 without a backward glance, let’s take a moment to touch on a couple of the good things to happen this year. DHs, OHTs and DTs were granted independent practice. With a simple change to the registration standards we are now recognised as what we have always known ourselves to be – independent oral health practitioners. “Bad mouth – the neglected reality” provider number campaign was born and quickly matured. Meetings with relevant stakeholders culminated in the Commonwealth Department of Health being tasked to start work on obtaining Provider Numbers for DHs, OHTs and DTs. Community spirit has been the real silver lining of this year, with people taking time to help others even when they may be going through the toughest of times themselves. Our members have been supporting each other in whatever way is needed. The development of our Peer Support Service reflects this, with volunteers putting up their hands to be a listening ear for any member in need. Please join me in giving a big round of applause to all who make this Association possible. Bill Suen, Christina Zerk and Shida Taheri; you constantly go above and beyond expectations. Thank you for your tireless work and passion for our Association. Our Directors and all the Committee and SIG Chairs; your leadership in our profession is inspiring. We are lucky to have all of our committee members who do so much behind the scenes; the time you dedicate to DHAA is invaluable and so appreciated. Thank you to you, our members, who have carried us though this year. We are so grateful for all your kind words and messages of support. When the Queen spoke about Covid-19 she said, “We should take comfort that while we may have more still to endure, better days will return: we will be with our friends again; we will be with our families again; we will meet again.” So, that’s a wrap on 2020. I want to wish you all a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays, a very happy and safe New Year, and I’m looking forward to the day when we will meet again. Cheryl Dey DHAA National President
Contents 04 The battle for provider numbers rages on... ...and we're progressing evercloser to a positive outcome
06 A need for something special Meet the newly-formed Special Needs Dentistry Special Interests Group.
07 Competency review
The importance of professional competencies and accreditation standards
08 Devoted to hygiene
DHAA Life Member Hellen Checker answers questions about her journey so far...
11 The COVID response
How being part of a wellorganised Association has helped us survive 2020.
COVER STORY
12 2020: A year in review
Good news stories from members and the industry as we continue to recover.
18 Take control
How to grasp the chance to be your own boss.
22 Find the right career fit
Why you need to interview the employer when finding a new job.
32 State of the Nation
Your quarterly round-up of what's happening near you.
Key Contacts CEO Bill Suen CONTACT
PRESIDENT Cheryl Day CONTACT
MEMBERSHIP OFFICER Christina Zerk CONTACT
BULLETIN EDITOR Robyn Russell CONTACT
The Bulletin is an official publication of the DHAA Ltd. Contributions to The Bulletin do not necessarily represent the views of the DHAA Ltd. All materials in this publication may be readily used for non-commercial purposes. The Bulletin is designed and published by eroomcreative.com
4 BAD MOUTH UPDATE
The campaign for provider numbers gathers speed The DHAA are progressing ever-closer to a positive outcome in their campaign for oral health professionals to have access to Medicare Provider numbers DHAA MEMBERS HAVE previously identified that access to provider numbers is the most important issue that the Association should be addressing. The DHAA Board responded by making it the top priority of our advocacy planning for 2019-2020. We are pleased to announce that we have received confirmation from the Commonwealth Department of Health, that they are preparing for policy approval and the subsequent amendment of existing legislations that will allow oral hygiene professionals to access Medicare provider numbers. There are still a number of steps and hurdles to negotiate, and it will be many months before the final approval can occur; but this is still a significant step towards our goal. This is the result of the hard work of many people behind the scenes in a highly focused and coordinated campaign run by the DHAA. Good preparation is key The project started with a literature review that formed the foundation of a logical and evidence-based argument to support our claim for access to provider numbers. With the input of the DHAA Board and the support of our media consultant over several months’ work, the DHAA published a paper entitled:
“Bad Mouth - the neglected reality”, which presented a very strong case for our cause. In July, 2020, this paper and an accompanying letter were sent to both the Federal Health Minister, Greg Hunt, and the Secretary of the Commonwealth
“ This is a clear demonstration that a properly researched, carefully planned and well coordinated advocacy approach, with the support of members, can bring about changes.” Department of Health, Professor Brendan Murphy. The response was immediate. A meeting with key departmental executives followed, with the Department receiving a detailed briefing of the issues raised. Five other Federal ministers were also contacted as part of the first phase.
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The portfolios covered included; Aged Care, Government Services, Regional Health, Veteran’s Affairs and Indigenous Australians. In August, 2020, the DHAA launched the ‘Bad Mouth’ campaign publicly through a general media release. Soon after, DHAA members, in different states and territories, were called on to contact their local politicians to discuss our campaign. The DHAA provided these members with campaign materials, flyers, briefing notes and training sessions so that they were able to effectively communicate with the politicians. This ensured that we were delivering a consistent and powerful message across the whole country. In addition to this, DHAA CEO, Bill Suen, liaised with a number of other key stakeholder organisations and gained the support of bodies such as; the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman, the Consumer Health Forum and Private Healthcare Australia. In response to our campaign, various politicians and organisations wrote to the Federal Health Minister to express their support, resulting in the current actions we see being taken by the Commonwealth Department of Health.
The power of teamwork Such a breakthrough is a result of the hard work of the DHAA Board, the staff and our media consultant; plus the many members that have volunteered their own time to contact their local politicians. While it may be too early to call the Bad Mouth campaign a success, it has certainly managed to put the issue on the radar of the decision makers and relevant stakeholders. With a relatively positive outlook this is a clear demonstration that a properly researched, carefully planned and well coordinated advocacy approach, with the support of members, can bring about changes. Everybody involved should be proud of what we have achieved together so far. The DHAA is your peak association and together we provide a strong voice with the intention to support a rewarding and satisfying career for every member. We will continue to advocate for our members and will keep you up to date with the progress of the Bad Mouth Campaign along with other projects. n Follow the DHAA social media channels on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn to keep up with what we're doing to support the oral hygiene industry.
Leadership quality CONGRATULATIONS TO DHAA Membership and Administration Officer Christina Zerk for her recent award of the Future Leaders Scholarship by the Australasian Society of Association Executives. We are thrilled for Christina to be selected to join the many high-calibre recipients of this program that recognises the high achievements of emerging leaders in professional associations. This is a well deserved recognition of her dedication to her work, our profession and to our Association. Well done Christina! n READ MORE >
From the Big chair Well-chosen words from DHAA Bulletin Editor, Robyn Russell A NEW YEAR is almost upon us; and the promise of another year is always thoughtprovoking – it’s usually the only time that we reflect back and look forward simultaneously. Reflecting back allows us to review the improvements we’ve made, especially when we look forward. Looking up and forwards permits us to dream about the endless possibilities of another year. My own results will be very different to any other year I have experienced; and I am not alone in this – a realisation that has become a source of both comfort and complacency. The ability to actually reflect on the year is a privilege in itself. This fact has not gone unnoticed and one that, with the grace of time, we will all do in our own way. For me, this has been a year of immense growth as both a professional and as a person. A year that has challenged me beyond all of the forty or so years before it. I encourage you all to reflect upon 2020 and unpack your own personal struggles and accomplishments. When you acknowledge the many things, you have achieved during an uncertain year, the realisation is worth celebrating. Take this momentum into 2021 and project forward, don’t let the thoughts of an easier year ahead let you fall into a state of fatalistic complacency, surge upwards and challenge yourself each and everyday. DHAA Bulletin Editor bulletin@dhaa.info
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A need for something special An introduction to the newly-formed Special Needs Dentistry Special Interest Group By Margie Steffens
THE PURPOSE OF the Special Needs Dentistry Special Interest Group (SNDSIG) is to create a resource that is accessible for all DHAA members, based on current research and information from specialists in this rapidly changing aspect of dental care. To engage and become members of the Australian Special Care In Dentistry (ASCID) association that will serve to enrich our learning. Over the next year we plan to address as many areas of this specialty as possible and may at some time be seeking your requests for particular areas in the area of Special Needs that you may wish for more information. Dental hygienists and oral health therapists play an important role in identifying the changes of health in the oral cavity which may be an indicator of changes in general health. The identification of these changes, no matter how subtle, can be an important factor in determining a patient's overall care as well as contributing to the building of trusted, respectful and rewarding relationships. I invite you to get to know us – ask questions and help us with developing our resources. Now meet the SNDSIG team in their own words:
Margie Steffens OAM Chair of SND SIG “I have 28 years of experience working in special needs dentistry, homelessness and aged care. My passion is working with marginalised and vulnerable populations.
I am a certified mental health first aider who has devoted over 30 years to teaching, research and developing outreach services to encourage our students across multiple disciplines to work together for better patient health outcomes. I am always keen to mentor anyone who desires to grow and develop their own passion in particular SND.”
Currently enrolled to commence a Graduate Certificate in Autism Studies in 2021, I have a real passion for learning more about how to improve and tailor the dental experience for people with special needs. I look forward to passing that knowledge on to my colleagues. Hopefully we can create a more accessible service to our patients
Aileen Lewis
Angie Ioannidis
DHAA WA Director “I have accrued 40 years of experience as a dental therapist and hygienist and worked as Oral Health Promotion and Research Officer for Dental Health Services WA. Other achievements include: – Worked in a special needs dental clinic intensive provision of dental care and prevention to patients with special needs (2019-2020). – Cert 4 in Community Services and currently working with homeless, LGBTIQ homeless and youth residential care. - Clinical demonstrator for Curtin Oral Health Therapy Students I am willing to advise and mentor those in oral health therapy and pursuing careers in different fields
“I have 17 years of experience working in general dental, 25 years of experience in the oral health field and have worked in a range of clinical and non-clinical settings. I am an accredited standard mental health first aider, with 15 years experience in teaching as well as being an assessor with the Australian Dental Council.
Alison Ringland (BOH) “I have 12 years experience working in general dental, periodontics and orthodontics. I work as a volunteer with the Same Waves program through the Cooks Hill SLSC that is aimed at children with mental and physical disabilities.
Amelia (Milly) Roff “I am very passionate about oral health education and have been practicing dental hygiene for 11 years. I completed my studies at Newcastle Uni in 2008; within which time I completed an arts degree with first class honours at Melbourne University. My majors were cultural studies and creative writing, with my honours thesis completed in cultural studies. Through cultural studies I developed qualitative research skills that had a strong focus on the impact of structural disadvantage. I have developed and delivered training materials for the Special Needs program in the Diploma of Oral Health at RMIT, and I am keen to learn more! n
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COMPETENCY
REVIEW
AS THE ACCREDITATION a new dental practitioner in authority for the Australian Australia. dental professions, the As the Competencies reflect Australian Dental Council (ADC) what it means to be a newly works to protect the public qualified dental hygienist, Why are professional by ensuring newly qualified dental therapist and oral health competencies and accreditation dental practitioners meet the therapist, it is important that the standards important for the high standards required of the Dental Hygienists Association of Australian dental sector Australian dental professions. Australia and its members have The ADC outlines what is the opportunity to provide input expected of a new graduate into the review. by developing and publishing During the initial stages of the professional competencies of the newly-qualified dental the review, the ADC is asking for feedback on the existing practitioner (the Competencies). The ADC is privileged to Competencies. This feedback will help the ADC to identify areas undertake this work in collaboration with, and on behalf of, the that may need revision or improvement within the existing dental professions. Competencies documents. The Competencies outline an overview of the knowledge and More information on this process will be available on the ADC skills expected of the new graduate for each of the five divisions website via adc.org.au. of dental practitioner recognised under the category of general Following consideration of the feedback received in these registration in Australia; including dentist, dental hygienist, initial stages, the ADC will review the competencies in dental therapist, oral health therapist and dental prosthetist. partnership with the dental professions and consultation of As part of the ADC’s accreditation process, programs are any proposed changes to the Competencies will then take required to demonstrate that students place in 2021. The review is expected to be are provided with opportunities to completed in late 2021, with the revised “It is important develop these professional competencies. Competencies to be incorporated into the that the Dental Providers must also demonstrate how the accreditation process from 2022. assessment practices used in the program The review of the Competencies follows Hygienists ensure students have achieved these the approval of updates to the ADC/Dental Association of competencies by the point of graduation. Council (New Zealand) accreditation Australia and its The application of the Competencies standards for dental practitioner programs members have the isn’t limited to program accreditation. The (the Standards) by the ADC and Dental ADC also uses the Competencies as part of Board of Australia in 2020. opportunity to the assessment and examination process The most recent review of the provide input into for internationally qualified dental Standards saw the inclusion of a new the review” practitioners. This means that graduates domain dedicated to the provision of of Australian accredited programs and culturally safe care for Aboriginal and successful overseas qualified dental practitioners are assessed Torres Strait Islander Peoples. Other important revisions to the as meeting the same threshold competencies before being Standards include greater regard for consumer involvement in eligible to apply for registration. dental practitioner program design and management, clearer In late-2020 the ADC will commence a review of the expectations for inter-professional collaborative practice and Competencies for all divisions of general registration. Given clarification of the expectations regarding student assessment. the importance of the Competencies for all dental stakeholders The new Standards will come into effect on 1 January 2021 and the future dental workforce, it is important that they are and the timing to now review the Competencies is especially reviewed on a regular basis. This ensures the Competencies important to ensure cohesion of the expectations of programs in reflect broader societal and regulatory changes as well as meeting the accreditation standards and producing competent remaining contemporary benchmarks of what is expected of future practitioners. n
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Devoted to hygiene DHAA Life Member Hellen Checker answers questions about her journey so far... Do you have a role model or mentor and do you it is important in our profession to have a mentor? Any position within the DHAA – be it chair, director or president – provides a rich and fertile environment for professional and personal development. For me, the DHAA was an opportunity to be influenced and mentored by truly inspiring professionals throughout my career as a dental hygienist. South Australia I believe, with more than a hint of bias, is a particularly fertile field; and my SA mentors have included Sue Aldenhoven (AM), Margie Steffens (OAM), Lesley Denny (the amazing editor of the Bulletin in the days of hard copy and mail outs), Janet Mullins and Virginia Street. This league of legends fiercely championed the profession and had been oral health advocates and professional influencers for more than 20 years before I became involved with the Association. On reflection, I was the new kid on
the block which was sometimes a little daunting. We just did not agree on all matters, but what I learned was that it is OK to disagree. We needed to explore all the pros and cons, and see issues from all perspectives, while still remaining respectful of the enormous experience held within the DHAA brains trust. An early lesson was to never disregard experience, and to always involve the past as well as the present, to forge the future. As Vice–President and President of DHAA SA, I was privileged to work with some absolute South Australian rippers: Josh Galpin, Ali Taylor, Sherry Berry, James Bosworth, Liz Morton and another giant, Cheryl Dey. Fortunately I got to work with most of these guys at a national level when I made the step up. Slowly and steadily we had formed a new team of powerful advocates that included Dr Linda Wallace, Dr Roisin McGrath, and Dr Mel Hayes, who are all articulate and passionate about oral
health as well as being exceptional role models and leaders. This legion of gamechangers would plant and cultivate the acorn seeds for the leaders of change in our profession. The recent changes being seen within the profession have actually taken decades of advocacy. Our profession continues to move forward and DHAA is now an established and respected entity that welcomes and represents a wider community of oral health professionals. Mentoring and succession planning are the key to a successful and sustainable professional association What was the biggest issue faced in your time with the DHAA? When I volunteered for the DHAA we faced many of the same issues that they face today, including legislative changes. Now, more than ever, it is essential to lobby for changes to provider numbers. One of the biggest issues faced was the secondary legislative Health
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Insurance Determination 2007 (HID), and practice restrictions with regard to fund rebates, from private health insurers to consumers, for preventive dental services – specifically regarding services provided by dental hygienists (DH), oral health therapists (OHT) and dental therapists (DT) who do not have their own provider number. The number of submissions written was prolific We were successful in changing the HID, but were blind-sided by the decision not to include oral health therapists to treat patients under DVA. Sadly we were not supported by the ADA in advocating for OHTs to be included in Teen Dental. The DHAA successfully worked together with ADOTHA, and continued to lobby for changes in the terminology in section 6 of the Dental Benefits Rules 2008 – which provides for DHs, DTs and OHTs to provide services on behalf of dental providers. I fully appreciate what a complex process it is to change legislation, but I also believe that the years of hard work from the DHAA has sown many seeds, and acquired numerous allies, in advocating for the provision of better oral health and access to services. With the continued effort of our current team of advocates I am confident
that this will eventuate in the well overdue provision of provider numbers. What lead you to this profession and how do you stay motivated? I had an epiphany while sitting on a crowded Sydney bus on my way to work. I had the dullest of jobs –underwriting insurance and finance loans – and as I sat there with my head resting against the window, long before the Internet, I knew that I had to find a new challenge. I answered an advertisement for a dental assistant in Randwick and
“ We just did not agree on all matters, but what I learned was that it is OK to disagree” was told, at the grand age of 20, that I was too old to be a dental nurse. So, I embarked on a mission to prove everybody wrong! In 1987 I was gainfully employed as a DA having completed my DA qualifications, in two years, at Redfern TAFE. But soon I became restless and bored again.
In 1990 left for a solo adventure throughout Europe, the Greek Islands and the former Yugoslavia at the beginning of the civil war. After a few years working for an orthodontist in Wimpole Street, London, and spending a few years in Scotland, I made my way to Saudi Arabia. Here I worked as a DA in a military hospital near Mecca for three years, shortly after the first Gulf War, before continuing my travel adventures that included camel trekking through the Kenyan rift valley on the border of Ethiopia. Eventually, I returned to Australia and applied for a dental hygiene role, after meeting another of my many influencers, Sue Harris, and having met Winthrop Professor Marc Tennent who has also been a mentor during my career. I have managed to remain motivated due to three important factors. Firstly, I love what I do. Secondly, to avoid feeling like a dent-bot, I have always been involved in a side project – be that the DHAA or further study (I completed a Bachelor of Health Human Services Prof Hons in Leadership). Finally, I add a good dose of volunteering into everything I do. As such, I have made numerous trips to
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Vietnam with my wonderful friends Lesley Denny and Dr Helen McLean (AM) and Dr Colin Twelftree (OAM). These experiences have inspired me to be a better person and I have made lifelong friendships on the way. In 2017, I traveled to Uganda and Rwanda to see the gorillas with a mate that I had met through work almost 10 years previously. I combined this with volunteering in African schools. I currently live in rural and remote central Australia and I am working in Alice Springs. I love being part of the small diverse community. In my spare time I have started a small project called Action Ant – hydration backpacks and water bottles that are sold online and at local markets. Action Ant recently donated hydration backs and water bottles to the extremely remote community school of Mt Liebig as prizes to encourage indigenous kids to attend school more regularly, and encourage them to drink more water rather than sugary alternatives. Do you have of advice for new graduates and professionals? My advice would be to surround yourself with amazingly dedicated and passionate people. Make lifelong friends of the highest personal and ethical calibre, making sure that they challenge you to continually improve yourself. Be true to yourself and always be honourable in your agenda and always
“ Embrace diversity and continue to study throughout your life, save at least 20 percent of your weekly income and volunteer at least 10 percent of your time to those who need it.” question your own motives. Embrace diversity and continue to study throughout your life, save at least 20 percent of your weekly income and volunteer at least 10 percent of your time to those who need it. Hopefully you will enjoy a long and happy career in oral health as I have been privileged to do. Finally, when you are not traveling well within yourself, be sure to reach out, because those lifelong friends and colleagues will always have your back I have seen so much change in my 40 years of dental hygiene and I have enjoyed the ride immensely. It’s very hard to give up. n Life membership is voted on by the board and awarded to members who have made significant and enduring contributions to DHAA Ltd.
Bill Suen DHAA CEO
“ The DHAA Board was meeting fortnightly to monitor the situation and work closely with staff and volunteers. The result has been a highly coordinated and responsive approach to membership support and advocacy during restrictions.”
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FROM THE TOP
How we have responded to COVID COVID-19 has highlighted the importance of being part of a well-organised and proactive industry Association.
via the DHAA website, or during the live
employment. The Association also contacted
session. The webinars were a very useful
all health ministers and their departments
channel to share common advice sought in
to offer our members’ service to support
the previous week and recordings were made
any relevant pandemic work, both paid and
available for members to view on the DHAA
voluntary. As a result, some members were
member website.
engaged in quarantine, COVID-19 testing and
IT IS NOW December and Christmas
information, multi-channel communication
decorations are popping up across the
of critical information was enhanced through
state and territory for members to share
country. The year 2020 has been an
emails, social media postings, and the DHAA
information, and provide mutual support as
extraordinary period and the unprecedented
website. Frequent video messages from
required at a local level. A ten-minute ‘Daily
pandemic has caught many off-guard;
Cheryl, our president, were posted on social
Bite’ was launched on social media to provide
causing major disruptions.
media to keep members up to date.
positivity sessions for members.
We should all be proud of our response
To ensure members received timely
With the advent of lockdowns, and
contact tracing work. A support group was set up in each
We also fast-tracked the introduction of
to COVID-19. It has brought out the best in
the suspension of non-urgent medical
our Peer Support Service in July to provide
people and demonstrated the excellent work
treatments, the dental community was
a listening ear to those in need of support
of our proactive board, the responsiveness of
experiencing unprecedented challenges in
throughout this difficult period.
the staff, and the comradeship of members.
the workplace on two fronts.
As we faced the crisis, with members
With many members facing significant
Firstly, there was a mass of varying advice
financial challenges, the Board reviewed its
needing urgent and clear guidance and
from multiple sources regarding the safety of
own financial position and offered members
advice, the DHAA Board was meeting
health workers and patients, many of which
a 30% discount on the membership and PI
fortnightly to monitor the situation and work
were not supported by scientific evidence. An
insurance renewal, plus a deferral of payment
closely with staff and volunteers. The result
expert advisory panel was set up to review
to November 2020. While the majority of
has been a highly coordinated and responsive
relevant information and provide advice to
members have taken up the offer, about a
approach to membership support and
the DHAA and its members.
third of members maintained their support by
advocacy during restrictions. The pandemic has highlighted the
Secondly, the vast majority of DHAA members are employees, many of whom
renewing early and paying the full amount. While not out of the woods yet, we know
complexity of Australia’s federated structure,
were affected by stand downs, redundancies
that our community has worked effectively to
with each state and territory setting their
and other industrial relations matters. In a
support each other in many ways. COVID-19
own rules for public health. Communication
six-week period from late March, the DHAA
has demonstrated the true value of a being
of accurate and timely information to the
IR support line received 120 requests for
part of a peak professional association –
DHAA membership has been a challenge.
advice and assistance. The CEO, membership
supporting, sharing and connecting.
A real-time, central information repository
officer and IR lawyer worked together around
was established; logging all relevant
the clock to ensure that all queries were
being done by so many, that no names were
information for staff, subcontractors and
responded to within 24 hours.
mentioned. This is deliberate as there have
volunteers to access. This repository became
An urgent survey was sent out to gauge
You may have noticed that despite so much
been so many people – board directors, state
the information powerhouse that guided
the impact of COVID-19 on members’ work
chairs and committee members, countless
accurate and timely advice for members
situations, and gather their concerns. At the
volunteers, subcontractors, staff and friends
across the various jurisdictions.
same time the DHAA liaised with ADOHTA
of the DHAA – all of who have contributed
and the ADA to work through the commonly
in their own way to support the DHAA
emerging IR situations.
response. It's impossible to name them all
The DHAA Connect, a weekly interactive webinar, was launched and hosted by Cheryl Dey (DHAA President), Christina Zerk (DHAA
To assist members seeking alternative
Membership Officer) and myself. Together
employment, the DHAA screened and
with invited guests we presented the latest
posted non-dental job opportunities on
changes and developments, with members
the DHAA jobs board; resulting in some
posting questions either prior to the session
members being able to secure alternative
without missing someone so I want to thank you all, we have done an excellent job. Let’s now all enjoy a well-deserved COVID-safe Christmas. Together we can get through this! n
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U
nexpected, unprecedented, unparalleled, unrivalled, unbelievable… All adjectives used to describe this year of COVID. Undone, unravelled, unprepared, unsure are just some of the emotions that many of us will have experienced. The rolling events of 2020 shocked us all, forced us to disrupt our habitual routines and jolted us violently out of our comfort zones. We have been asked to consider the answers to big questions such as; ‘What matters?’ and ‘What is worth doing?’ Many of us have even questioned the career that we are all profoundly espoused to. A year of complete career cataclysm with a wave of standdowns as the government directed dental practices to cease elective procedures. A situation that proved incredibly threatening and gyrated into an industrial relations ignominy for a large number of clinicians and practice owners. All of this happened because immediate change was mandated. Change, a seemingly sullied term, conjured up by those who command us all pain and torment. Who wants to change? Who needs to change? Well, we all did. We were not ready, willing or in some cases able. Prochaska and DiClemente first conceptualised a transtheoretical model of behaviour change that silhouettes five stages of change. A model demarcated by phases including pre-contemplation, contemplation, preparation, action and a maintenance phase. There was no time to pre-contemplate the change necessitated, whether you were ready or not- wasn’t important. Resistance was futile, COVID was here, standdowns materialised and the contemplation phase was now overbaked. Action was required. A modification of thought, capability and action was forced upon us all. This threatening situation forced many of us to behave conservatively and become very risk-adverse. Uncertainty makes it arduous to dive into a new venture or further career enhancements. It became apparent though, more than ever, that forging forward with career enhancements was necessary during this time of change and uncertainty. It is with self-reflection, on 2020 – the year of COVID, that an immense feeling of growth, achievement and certain opportunity must allow everyone to focus on re-inventing
“ When you don’t know what the future will bring, or when the path you thought you were on takes an unexpected turn, it makes sense to pursue a diverse avenue of career options as a clinician.”
Nobody expected COVID-19 to have the effect that it did on our world – and is still having. However, there is still a heap of good news coming out of recovery from...
A year of
unexpec Story by Robyn Russell
their careers. If you are like most dental practitioners, you will believe that we are fortunate enough to practice an amazing profession which offers a wealth of opportunity. The challenge for us all lies in the development of this opportunity. Reinventing your career, each and every year, beyond what you originally thought possible. When you don’t know what the future will bring, or when the path you thought you were on takes an unexpected turn, it makes sense to pursue a diverse avenue of career options as a clinician. Looking extrinsically on the dental profession it becomes apparent that most practitioners feel that they are hygienists, dental therapists, oral health therapists, and that this is the precipice of career satisfaction and achievement. The introduction of the concept of a ‘possible’ clinician brings rise to a multitude of prospects.
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cted possibilities “Time is free, but priceless. You can’t own it, but you can use it. You can’t keep it, but you can spend it. Once you’ve lost it you can never get it back.” Harvey Mackay
T
he advent of time, teamed with clarity, gave rise to a great many within the DHAA. With this new sense of optimism many DHAA members got on with the job and discovered a wealth of opportunity from their COVID experience. We have featured some of these inspiring stories from our talented DHAA members and industry partners in this edition. Their stories of growth during a time of extreme uncertainty are powerful reminders of what can be achieved when you allow yourself the absolution of perseverance and optimism. >
ESTÚDIO BLOOM
‘Possible’ clinicians embrace the ideas that we all have about who we might want to become. Some of these are concrete and well-informed by past clinical experience; others are vague and fuzzy, embryonic and untested. Some are realistic; others are pure fantasy. Naturally, some will appeal to us more than others. Embracing the concept of a ‘possible’ clinician allows us all to see the possibility of career growth. The forced downtime of COVID allowed practitioners time to explore the reality of becoming ‘possible’ clinicians. This concept of possibility replenished the motivation for many clinicians and allowed them the indulgence of time, to invest in their pet projects, side hustles, or aspirations to complete extensive CPD. Time allowed for the cultivation of knowledge, skills, resources, and relationships. COVID gave us all time – an unfathomable gift when used with intent and clarity.
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I was looking forward to 2020 being a predictable year. Then being stood down happened. No job, no income, no plans (PPE jobkeeper). What was I meant to do? Enrol in an MBA! It has been an amazing experience to learn something outside of dentistry. I’m loving every single minute of it. It’s changed the way I look at how dental practices are run now and I’m advising the practice on what I’ve been learning. Anonymous
COVID-19 provided many challenges in dental education for us all in 2020. The University of Sydney’s, School of Dentistry was by no means immune to the required adjustments. It has been a challenging year but reflecting it’s appropriate to look on the positive aspects. Rock bottom was a temporary shutdown of two weeks. However, we reopened the simulation clinics and kept the education of later years progressing to facilitate their graduation via simulated tasks ratified by the Australian Dental Council whilst the LHD clinics were still closed. When the clinics reopened, we extended the operational time of the SIM clinic to 11 hours-a-day at both sites, with reduced numbers observing as always strict infection control protocols. Working as a team both students and staff worked across student breaks and in the case of the BOH students on Saturdays also. As we are positioned now both the BOH and DMD programs final year students will graduate on time, though hard work and perseverance. Andrew Terry The University of Sydney
Over the past months I’ve been grateful for the opportunity to participate in the
Franklin Woman mentoring program. Through this pandemic, our cohort actively participated in online group sessions and valuable 1:1 sessions with our mentors; successful leading researchers. I found the personal dominance profile, focusing on analytical, practical, experimental and relational thinking, to be very helpful in understanding the way my brain works. It’s been great to identify and reflect upon my signature strengths and inclusive behaviours to challenge
What 2020 has taught me? For me, 2020 has provided a unique opportunity to refocus and rethink about every aspect of my professional working career. I am thankful for the chance to stop, pause and re-evaluate what I do and more importantly, why I do it. I am not one to willingly accept change, however 2020 has taught me how important it is to accept change, think differently and pivot in order to grow professionally.
Andrew Terry
my own perspectives, build confidence in managing conflict in the workplace, and strengthen my sphere of influence. Through interactive sessions, mentor meetings and individual reflection, I recognise my collaborative leadership style aligns with Participatory Action Research, where building relationships with key stakeholders and being personally involved in field research are significant to me achieving optimal research outcomes and improving job satisfaction. Perfect timing, especially during a crossroad in my career! Cathryn Forsyth Western Sydney Local Health District
Cathryn Forsyth
‘building your own brand’ and elevating to a higher level of learning and thinking. All of this was during a sixweek stand down period, whilst homeschooling two young kids!! After 20 years in the industry, it can become very routine doing the same thing day in day out, however I have had a complete mindset change around what I do as an OHT. I am so grateful to work with a strong and motivated team who are equally as committed to elevating and re-creating how we do dentistry. None of this was on my agenda for 2020 but I feel I have grown immensely as a professional and discovered a renewed passion for my career and profession. I am excited for the future and the change I feel is coming to oral health therapy and dental hygiene in Australia. Carlene Franklin (BOH) Private practice, Chermside Qld
Carlene Franklin
I spent my time during lockdown completing over 50 hours of CPD, including courses in leadership, professional resilience and clinical supervision as well as all the usual dental related webinars. I spent time developing ways to completely overhaul how dental hygiene services are provided within our private practice, with a clearer focus on health messaging, which after all is the essence of what we do. I learnt how to create video content for social media promotion and created a professional Linkedin page. I also discovered the importance of investing in yourself as a professional by
Gained precious time to spend with family at home which was a luxury prior to COVID. The lockdown also provided the golden opportunity for the refurbishment of the private practice, and an in-depth review of the business resulting to a well researched and considered business plan moving forward post-COVID. COVID certainly had provided the opportunity to reflect, recharge and rejuvenate. JB OHT in primary care.
The March ADX was the last time the NSK family were able to get together physically as a team, however our team has grown incredibly during these trying months. We got to know each other and our customers on a new and personal level, with Zoom inviting us
into each other’s homes. We even got to meet each other’s pets and children as they came and went through our meetings, which made for some very entertaining moments! NSK globally has responded fast and efficiently to COVID-19, by developing new products to safely control aerosols, as well as investigating and proving the efficiency of our “Dual Defense” systems which stop suck back and cross combination through our handpieces, motors and couplings. The safety of our dental professionals is always at the forefront of our minds and being able to provide safe solutions for dentists to continue treating patients in a safe environment has been our driving force this year. NSK
They say you should celebrate now, Healthygums P/L have clocked up seven years! Couldn’t have done it, without a lot of hard work but more importantly the support from an ever growing group of dentists and hygienists around the country, we have become a proud company. Our goal when we started was to give the Australian public an oral care brand – SYSTEMA that would offer something
16 different in the market. We soon realized that dentists and hygienists really liked our toothbrushes that featured SYSTEMA’s super-tapered soft and slim bristles. That’s the difference, along with a much more compact head size. We were also given a great boost this year having been accepted as a valued stockist with Woolworths. Over 900 stores now carry our most popular toothbrush, the SYSTEMA Super Soft Compact Gum Care. Patients that are given our SYSTEMA toothbrush when attending their surgery for treatment are able now to purchase the same toothbrush at their local Woolworths store. How good is that! Thank you so much for all your support and please keep safe! Peter Beard CEO Healthygums
Perhaps nowhere in our society did COVID-19 hit harder than residential Aged Care, which happens to be an area of committed passion for our business and moreover our founder Dr Mark Wotherspoon. Dr Mark made it a mission of his, and ours, to do all we could to the degree we could, during lock-downs and as restrictions eased, to support Aged Care home residents and carers with in room oral care visits and complimentary denture care products from the HyGenie range. Introducing and demonstrating how the HyGenie ‘ Ultimate Denture Care Kit ’ quickly and safely left their dentures squeaky clean and fresh was a big hit with them, their families and their carers. Made all the better when the kits were gifted to the patients, much to their surprise. We managed to create a handful of smiles through what was a pretty delicate and lonely time for some Aged Care residents. Dr Marks HyGenie
Colgate hosted a virtual oral health promotion conference on 14 October,
2020, to coincide with World Cavity Free Future Day. The theme of the conference was sustainability in an oral health context. The conference highlighted the importance of implementing fluoride varnish programs and school toothbrushing programs, as sustainable public oral health promotion measures. Significant discussion was sparked following the presentation by Emerita Professor Cynthia Pine, who discussed the sustained dental health benefits seen in adults who took part in toothbrushing programs as children. Dr Susan Cartwright, highlighted Colgate’ s work and commitment in the sustainability space, including Bright Smiles, Bright Future’s, which is Colgate’s flagship corporate social responsibility program. Colgate aims to bring oral health education to two billion children globally by 2025. Colgate has also introduced the first-of-its-kind Recyclable Toothpaste Tube, and is sharing this innovative technology with other companies as part of its campaign to decrease waste. "We were delighted to host this year’s Conference and highlight how we as a profession and industry, can all work together to practise more sustainably," Dr Susan Cartwright, Colgate Scientific Affairs and Public Health Manager. Colgate
The TePe GOOD Regular soft toothbrush is made from bio-based plastic – without compromising on product quality, efficiency or design. For this, the product was awarded Dental Care Product of the Year in Australia’s largest independent consumer survey. Anne-Kristin Ottosson, General Manager of TePe Australia & NZ, said:
“We are delighted to receive this award as we believe the TePe GOOD Brush is a great example of how we can look at oral health from a sustainable perspective. For such a young company to be recognised by Product of the Year is an outstanding achievement and one we are really proud of.” The award was granted by a judging panel from 8,000 household shoppers surveyed by Nielsen, which assessed many products to find the best products in dental care. The TePe GOOD toothbrush, made from renewable sources, was introduced as the first step towards increased sustainability in the entire TePe range. The TePe GOOD series offers consumers the possibility to make a conscious, sustainable choice in the dental care category. Like all of TePe’s products, TePe GOOD is developed in collaboration with dental experts. The production takes place at the TePe manufacturing plant in Malmö, Sweden, using 100% green energy. Part of which comes from the company’s own rooftop solar power facility – another of TePe’s initiatives for the environment. TePe Australia & NZ was established in 2019 as a subsidiary of TePe Oral Hygiene Products, headquartered in Sweden and founded in 1965. TePe n
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Take Control Proposed new scope will provide the freedom to practice independently so there has never been a better time to consider owning your own practice and being your own boss Story by Lisa Singh
W
e are standing at the frontier of one of the greatest changes in the ability for hygienists and oral health therapists to generate wealth in the history of the profession in Australia; and somehow, very few people are talking about it. In mid-2020 the dental board finally agreed to increase hygienist and OHTs scope of practice so that they could practice independently to dentists. A huge step towards independence as a profession and recognition of value. Only one administrative impediment remains for independence to be complete. Currently, lobbying is underway to grant hygienists and OHTs the ability to have their own provider number and when this happens so too should the historical reluctance of banks and financiers to lend to hygienists and OHTs wanting to buy a practice. Practice ownership – once a pipe dream for many is now finally going to be a very real possibility.
is reduced as a result of management decisions that are out of your control (loss leader scale and clean, dental plans, and so forth). • If you go on maternity or paternity leave, you do not have as much flexibility regarding how or when you will return. Only practice ownership gives you ultimate work security and flexibility.
Here are just a few of the reasons why hygienists and OHTs should consider practice ownership;
2. Work options When the area that you wish to live in isn’t flexible and jobs in that area are scarce, practice ownership (through purchase or set up) gives you the ability to work wherever you want.
1. Job Security When you are a dental professional working for someone else, you do not necessarily have job security. • It is possible to get fired or be made redundant. • You are not in charge of patient allocation or rosters and, as such, can find that your income is drastically reduced, purely because the owner has hired too many clinicians or just because it is quiet and they want to ensure that they are busy first. • You are not in charge of professional service fees or marketing and can find that your income
3. Self-determination Some hygienists and OHTs get frustrated working under leadership and management decisions that they don’t agree with and want the ability to create and work in their own ideal practice, rather than someone else’s. The workplace culture, operating procedures, aesthetics, equipment, functionality, and business structure are all components of a practice that are well within the acumen of many dental hygienists and OHTs. Usually, the only way to get professional, managerial, clinical freedom and autonomy is through practice ownership. >
Why is this a big deal?
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“ Lobbying is underway to grant hygienists and OHTs the ability to have their own provider number and when this happens so too should the historical reluctance of banks and financiers to lend to hygienists and OHTs wanting to buy a practice�
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“ The years ahead should be an exciting time that should be more empowering, professionally rewarding and financially beneficial for hygienists and OHTs than ever before” 4. Wealth Creation In addition to job security and self-determination practice ownership also adds the possibility of wealth creation. Two key features stand out: leverage and tax. ●Leverage. As an employee, your income is limited to what you can generate with your own two hands. Once you become a practice owner, it is possible to start generating income through the efforts of other dentists and hygienists working in your practice. As the owner, you can take sick leave, go on holidays or just take a break, and still have income coming in to pay your staff, rent and other bills. Once you learn how to leverage yourself in your business effectively, it also allows you to scale your operation and wealth creation. You can take advantage of business opportunities that would have been impossible if you were trying to do everything with your two hands. ●Flexibility in tax planning. In business ownership, there is a level of tax flexibility that is available that is not available to a solo dental employee or contractor. Ask you accountant about this because there can be a range of financial benefits as a business owner. Often, the most significant financial rewards go to the practice owner over the longer term.
Conclusion In the years to come the Australian dental industry will look back at these years as a turning point for hygienists and OHTs. A crossroads at which we gained our independence and for the first time gained the possibility of true job security, self-determination and wealth creation. The years ahead should be an exciting time that should be more empowering, professionally rewarding and financially beneficial for hygienists and OHTs than ever before. n About the author Lisa Singh is a National Account Manager with Practice Sale Search, Australia’s leading dental practice brokerage. Lisa, who spent many years working for one of Australia’s major dental corporates, started off her career in the dental industry as a dental hygienist, working in private General and Periodontal practices in the US. Lisa’s exceptional customer service and relationship-building skills, together with her passion for the dentistry industry, have resulted in her building a name for herself as someone with a deep understanding of dentistry and the business behind it. Her unique background as both a business coach and hygienist gives her insights into the many factors that contribute to successfully buying and selling a dental practice, especially when it comes to knowing what a purchaser should be looking for in a practice.
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CAREER DEVELOPMENT
Finding the right career fit It’s just as important to interview the employer when finding a new job By Melanie Hayes
IT’S THAT TIME of year when universities around the country graduate students from dental hygiene and oral health programs, and these new practitioners seek to enter the workforce. Welcome to our profession – what an exciting time in your career! Whether you are a new graduate, or someone looking for a new work opportunity, interviewing for any position is necessary to determine whether you are a good fit for the role. Most people spend time practicing and improving their interviewing technique, rehearsing responses for the plethora of questions an employer might ask (and there are a lot of resources online to help you with this!). However, most people overlook the importance in interviewing the employer to see if the practice is the right fit for you. Apart from home, generally most people spend a significant proportion of their week in the workplace – so it is really important to choose a workplace that you will enjoy working in! The alternative is likely stress and job dissatisfaction.
Planning your strategy Here are some questions/strategies you might consider asking to get some insight into the practice you are interviewing with: • Ask about the scheduling – or to see the appointment book. This could give you some insight into what a typical day looks like, including the length of appointments, how breaks are managed, and how busy the practice is. If it is important to you, consider asking about extending appointment times if you are a new graduate, or simply to settle into the rhythms of the new environment. • Show interest in the workplace culture and the team you will be working with. Is the workplace conservative or more outgoing? Do the team share lunch breaks? Are there any regular social events planned? Ask the employer what they like best about working at the practice. If appropriate, consider talking to the employees to get an insight into
the workplace culture – ask them what they enjoy about working there, or what the challenges are. This will help you decide if your personality and personal preferences will be a good fit for the team. • Discuss opportunities for professional development. What internal training is offered? Does the employer keep upto-date with the latest technologies and techniques, and provide training to for employees? Is there an opportunity for mentoring? How to they manage staff requirements for external continuing professional development? Is it up to the individual’s preference, or do they like to encourage the team to attend CPD events together? • Ask about how success is measured in the workplace. Are there regular performance reviews? What measures will be used to evaluate performance? Check how this aligns with your own preferences for autonomy, clinical priorities and goal setting behaviours. Please note this list isn’t exhaustive – there may be other factors that are important to you. What we do know about careers and job satisfaction is that there is an entire system of individual, social, environmental and societal factors at play. It is also important to note that team dynamics can change over time, for a variety of reasons. Nevertheless, it is wise to take time to think about what is important to you in the workplace, and prepare your questions accordingly prior to the scheduled interview, so you can make an informed career choice when offered a position.
Dr Melanie Hayes (PhD) is a dental hygienist who has enjoyed a diverse career in clinical practice, teaching, research and management. She has a Master of Education majoring in Career Development, and is now working in an interdisciplinary role at the University of Sydney.
Tell me what you want to hear I have really enjoyed bringing this career development column to you over the past two years. I am keen to hear from you on what career development topics you would like to hear more about – or inspiring hygienists and OHTs you would like me to interview. Please scan the QR code to share your ideas!
23
A full state-by-state run-down of Association happenings around the country
STATE NATION ACT
NSW
Qld
ACT Contacts Michelle Bonney contactact@dhaa.info
NSW Contacts Steven Chu chairnsw@dhaa.info
Qld Contact Jen Turnbull chairqld@dhaa.info
Warrick Edwards directornsw@dhaa.info
Lizzy Horsfall contactqld@dhaa.info
n ACT is still without a chair and the call for nominations has gone out in November. We thank Susie Melrose for her tireless work in leading the Committee for the past couple of years, and Michelle Bonney for holding the fort as deputy chair Planning is underway to commence events at the beginning of next year at the National Arboretum in Canberra so please look out for further information.
n NSW Chair Steven Chu attended the NSW Health consultation focus group on its Oral health Strategy 20212030 in October. It is pleasing to see oral health being on the government radar and DHAA was invited to contribute to shape the strategy. Ian Epondulan also presented to University of Newcastle Oral Health students to promote DHAA membership in October. CEO Bill Suen met with the NSW Dental Council
“ The two Newcastle half-day workshops were over subscribed with attendees learning a range of practical skills in surface protection, resin splints, retainers and bridges”
to provide a briefing on DHAA activities. Key items discussed included our provider numbers campaign and industrial relations advocacy focus. NSW was the first state to resume face to face CPD events with GC hands on workshops on Saturday 14 November. The two Newcastle half day workshops were over subscribed with attendees learning a range of practical skills in surface protection, resin splints, retainers and bridges. It was great to be able to see members face to face after all these months of COVID lockdown.
n The DHAA continues to work closely with Queensland Health and other relevant agencies on oral health policy issues. Our state chair and director reviewed the Advancing rural and remote health service delivery through workforce: A strategy for Queensland 2017-2020, in preparation for the development a new strategy moving forward. CEO Bill Suen also attended a stakeholder
“T he event was originally planned for the Gold Coast but was changed to a virtual event. It turned out to be a huge success with 160 registrants from across Australia”
25 For all the latest info on DHAA events please visit www.dhaa.info/events
meeting of the Queensland Registration and Notification Committee of the Dental Board of Australia on 19 November to discuss dental practitioner regulations in Queensland. The Queensland Committee also hosted a webinar on Periodontal Health in support of the World Diabetes Day on 14 November. The event was originally planned for the Gold Coast but was changed to a virtual event due to the uncertainty around face-to-face events with state border closure. It turned out to be a huge success with 160 registrants from across Australia. The next face-to-face Queensland event is already being planned and members will receive notification soon.
SA
Vic
WA
SA Contacts Sue Tosh chairsa@dhaa.info
Vic Contacts Sarah Laing chairvic@dhaa.info
WA Contacts Carmen Jones chairwa@dhaa.info
Sally Hinora contactsa@dhaa.info
Desiree Bolado contactvic@dhaa.info
Rhonda Kremmer contactwa@dhaa.info
n The annual SA Christmas Brunch has returned on Saturday 5 December at the Ayers House in Adelaide CBD. Dr Michael Eaton, head of the Breast/Endocrine Unit at Flinders Medical Centre has been confirmed as speaker on breast screening, breast cancers and the impacts to biophosphonate medications and jaw necrosis. It is great that SA members are able to get together to celebrate the festive season after a challenging year.
n Victoria is back to business with dental practices reopened after nearly four months of lockdown. Discussions had commenced to re-schedule the joint DHAA-ADOHTA weekend seminar postponed from March this year. Collaboration with ADOHTA continued with a successful joint online presentation to students from La Trobe University, Melbourne University and CSU held on 20 October. The two associations have also been working on preparation for the public sector enterprise bargaining for oral health staff in Victoria.
n WA Director Aileen Lewis and Chair Carmen Jones visited Curtin University and presented to students in August. The full-day event on 21 November at Mandoon Estate Swan, had an array of expert speakers. Dr Christine May covered complementary medicines and ViDe Teledentistry. While Professor Marc Tennant provided details on applications for mobile phones in teledentistry and diseases diagnosis. ENT specialist Dr Hayley Herbert presented on ear, nose and throat conditions that affect oral health, while Prosthodontist Professor Glen Liddelow discussed failed implants and pretreatment for success. The day was supported by Periodontist Dr Ahmed Saleh with an overview of the current Periodontal Classification. It was great to see so many members at the event under our new DHAA COVID Safe environment. n
“ It is great that SA members are able to get together to celebrate the festive season after a challenging year�
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