The Fulcrum Podcast

The Fulcrum Podcast
Podcast Description
A podcast of the Virginia Dental AssociationThe Fulcrum podcast serves as a dynamic platform where various important topics, especially those affecting dental providers and patients, are explored through thoughtful discussion and personal perspectives. The name "The Fulcrum" reflects the concept of a central point of connection, much like the pivotal connection between a dental professional and their patient. Each episode anchors a key theme relevant to the dental community, yet the content is ever-evolving, offering a range of insights from different contributors. This includes human interest stories, discussions on the legislative process, and in-depth conversations about pressing issues like workforce challenges. With diverse perspectives and engaging storytelling, The Fulcrum podcast aims to provide valuable insights that go beyond what you might read in a traditional article. The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only, and any reliance on the information provided in this Podcast is done at your own risk. This Podcast should not be considered professional, medical, or legal advice.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast delves into significant themes within the dental community, including workforce challenges, legislative changes, and insurance transparency. For instance, Episode 1 tackles Virginia's workforce shortages and educational pathways for dental hygienists, while Episode 2 analyzes the implications of new transparency legislation regarding dental loss ratios, highlighting emerging trends and their potential impact on the industry.

A podcast of the Virginia Dental Association
The Fulcrum Podcast serves as a dynamic platform where various important topics, especially those affecting dental providers and patients, are explored through thoughtful discussion and personal perspectives. The name “The Fulcrum” reflects the concept of a central point of connection, much like the pivotal connection between a dental professional and their patient. Each episode anchors a key theme relevant to the dental community, yet the content is ever-evolving, offering a range of insights from different contributors. This includes human interest stories, discussions on the legislative process, and in-depth conversations about pressing issues like workforce challenges. With diverse perspectives and engaging storytelling, The Fulcrum Podcast aims to provide valuable insights that go beyond what you might read in a traditional article.
The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this podcast are for general information only, and any reliance on the information provided in this podcast is done at your own risk. This podcast should not be considered professional, medical, or legal advice.
In this episode, Karen Wood discusses dental malpractice and risk management with Dr. Al Rizkalla. The podcast covers various aspects of dental malpractice, focusing on informed consent, documentation, patient interactions, and the critical role of detailed, ethical patient care. Dr. Rizkalla highlights common claims against dentists, the importance of effective communication with patients, and the necessity of thorough and accurate documentation. The episode also explores the significance of hiring well-trained staff and proactively using malpractice insurance resources, including risk management consultations and educational opportunities available through Dentist’s Choice.
HOST: Karen Wood manages the VDA Member Perks program. She has been in the dental field for over 20 years, having experience as a dental assistant, managing a periodontal practice, and working with dental teams as a sales consultant and trainer.
GUEST(S): Dr. Al Rizkalla, Head of Professional Liability-Practice Risk Management – Dentist’s Choice graduated from Georgetown University School of Dentistry with honors in 1988. He also completed a General Practice residency at the Veterans Administration Hospital Center in Washington, D.C. Dr. Rizkalla was the President of the Northern Virginia Dental Society (NVDS) and also represented NOVA for several years as a member of the Executive Board of the Virginia Dental Association (VDA). In 2013, Dr. Rizkalla was appointed to the Virginia Board of Dentistry, and in 2016, he was elected President of the Board.
He has held several positions in the VDA and the NVDS, including Continuing Education Chair, Peer Review Committee Chair, Executive Committee Chair, Ethics Committee Chair, and Dental Health and Public Information Committee. He is an examiner for the CWC testing agency and previously served on the examination committee of ADEX.
Dr. Rizkalla is a fellow of the American College of Dentists, International College of Dentists, Pierre Fauchard Academy, and the VDA. Dr Rizkalla teaches Restorative Dentistry, Interdisciplinary Healthcare Ethics, and Practice Management. He is the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award by the NVDS.
MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
VDA Member Perks: https://www.vdamemberperks.com/ The Virginia Dental Services Corporation (VDSC) was created as a subsidiary of the VDA to recommend products and services to the members of the VDA. By utilizing the VDA Member Perks-endorsed vendors, VDA members can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with using recommended companies, take advantage of special benefits, and receive discounted pricing, all while supporting the VDA. Since 1997, the VDSC has been pleased to provide over $3.7 million in funding to the VDA, VDA Foundation, VCU School of Dentistry, and others.
Dr. Al Rizkalla [email protected]
R.K. Tongue Co., Inc. https://rktongue.com/ 800-638-6353
Michael Urbanik [email protected] 410-369-3957
EPISODE CREDITS:
Producer: Paul Logan
Host: Karen Wood
Guest(s): Dr. Al Rizkal
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The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only, and any reliance on the information provided in this Podcast is done at your own risk. This Podcast should not be considered professional, medical, or legal advice.
Music in this episode from Epidemic Sound

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