In this episode, Ryan Dunn, CEO at the Virginia Dental Association (VDA), is joined by Paul Logan, the VDA’s Director of Strategic Initiatives. They discuss the VDA's focused advocacy efforts in anticipation of the 2026 General Assembly. Specifically, they highlight a 'three-legged stool' approach: advocating for increased budget for dental workforce programs, creating an expedited licensure path for internationally trained dentists to practice hygiene, and introducing a preventative assistant role to alleviate workforce shortages. The discussion emphasizes the complexity of dental workforce issues, the existing shortages, and the strategic initiatives required to address these problems. The episode also outlines upcoming legislative advocacy events and encourages VDA members to participate actively.

LISTEN NOW