News Items

Dental Infection Control Rules Update

New Dental Infection Control Rules went into effect on Jan. 23, 2021. Learn more about the new rules and see resources for WSDA members.

WSDA & Delta Launch Coordinated Effort to Support Dental Hygienist Training at UWSOD

This coordinated investment to expand hygienist education at UWSOD is a significant step in addressing the critical shortage of dental hygienists in Washington.

Delta Dental Gives $1 Million for Dental Hygiene Training at UW

Delta Dental of Washington has announced a $1 million grant to the University of Washington School of Dentistry to support a partnership between Shoreline Community College’s Dental Hygiene Program and the dental school.

DQAC Dental Educational Outreach Committee Meeting – Feb. 3

The Dental Quality Assurance Commission (DQAC) will hold a Dental Educational Outreach Committee meeting on Wednesday, Feb. 3 at 12 PM.

Dr. Joe Vaughn: It’s What’s Inside That Matters

"Training matters. Competence certainly matters. But I’d argue that what matters even more is your integrity. It’s what drives you to be better, to do the right thing and treat people well."

Competitive Health Insurance Reform Act Becomes Law

The Competitive Health Insurance Reform Act, legislation that repeals the McCarran-Ferguson antitrust exemption for health insurance companies, became law on Jan. 13.

Safe Medication Return Program Now Live

The Department of Health Safe Medication Return program is now live and accepting unwanted and expired medications for disposal.

Vaccine Clinics in King & Snohomish Counties

See large vaccine clinic locations currently vaccinating Phase 1A eligible individuals in King and Snohomish counties.

Make Your 1A Vaccine Appointment ASAP

DOH and WSDA urge health care workers currently eligible in Phase 1A, which includes all dental office employees, to make their vaccine appointment ASAP to ensure prioritization before those in Phase 1B become eligible.

“The Best Thing I’ve Ever Done” — Seattle Cancer Care Alliance Oral Medicine Service

Seattle Cancer Care Alliance Oral Medicine Service collaborates with cancer doctors to produce better patient outcomes.

DQAC Business Meeting – Jan. 22

The Dental Quality Assurance Commission (DQAC) will hold its next business meeting on Friday, Jan. 22 at 8:30 AM.

HCA: Requesting Sign Language Interpreters

Can a Dental Practice in Washington Mandate its Employees Receive COVID-19 Vaccinations?

WSDA’s outside legal counsel, Studebaker Nault, answers questions regarding whether Washington dental offices can mandate that their staff receive the COVID-19 vaccine.

Congress Passes COVID-19 Relief

After thousands of grassroots emails from ADA members, as well as extensive lobbying from the ADA’s Government Affairs team, Congress has passed an end of the year package.

Attention King County Dental Offices: Vaccine Clinic This Weekend in Seattle

WSDA has been made aware of a large vaccine clinic planned for this weekend in Seattle by Kelly-Ross Pharmacy Group.

2021 Loan Repayment Assistance with Washington Health Corps

2021 provider applications close March 1, 2021, apply now if interested!

Vaccine Update: Updated Provider List, Voucher Letter, Employee Mandate Info

As of today, the Department of Health (DOH) has provided two methods for dental teams to verify their Phase 1A status and find a location to receive the vaccine in their area.

DQAC Dental Anesthesia Committee Meeting – Jan. 15

The Dental Quality Assurance Commission (DQAC) will hold a Dental Anesthesia Committee meeting on Friday, Jan. 15 at 3 PM.

Reminder: Minimum Wage Increase

As of Jan. 1, 2021 the state minimum wage is $13.69 an hour, up from $13.50 an hour in 2020. The increase in minimum wage impacts salary thresholds for overtime exempt employees.

HCA: Dental – CDT® Code Change for Frenectomy