Meeting Recap: CDA Discusses Workplace Violence Prevention and Mental Health Support for Dentists

In a significant virtual meeting held on May 9, the California Dental Association (CDA) brought together over 250 member-dentists and their staff to delve into the critical topic of workplace violence prevention. This session was timely, reflecting on recent tragic events and the consequent legislative changes that have pushed workplace violence to the forefront of business owners’ minds, including those in the dental field.
The meeting honed in on three vital aspects of workplace safety specific to dental practices: conflict resolution, mental health and wellness support, and adherence to California’s new Workplace Violence Prevention Law. A panel of experts, including CDA President Dr. Carliza Marcos, DDS, CDA Foundation Wellness Program Chair Dr. Matt Korn, DDS, and CDA Senior Regulatory Compliance Analyst Teresa Pichay, provided invaluable insights and guidance.
Dr. Marcos recounted an unsettling incident in her practice, where a patient’s aggressive behavior highlighted the need for robust safety protocols and the importance of handling financial discussions with care. Dr. Korn emphasized the significance of having clear, written policies on office practices, financial matters, and patient interactions to prevent misunderstandings and potential conflicts.
The session also underscored the importance of mental health and wellness support within the dental community. Creating a safe, supportive environment for both patients and staff is crucial, and the panelists shared resources available to CDA members, including the CDA Foundation Wellness Program.
Furthermore, the upcoming July 1 deadline for California employers to implement a workplace violence prevention plan was discussed. This new legislation requires employers to conduct risk assessments, develop and annually update a written prevention plan, train employees, and maintain a violent incident log. Pichay provided practical advice on complying with these requirements, pointing members to CDA’s sample risk assessment form and written plan templates.
Additional resources and a forthcoming workplace violence prevention course were highlighted to assist members in developing comprehensive plans for managing workplace conflicts, mental health issues, and preparing for tragic events.
This meeting not only addressed the pressing need for violence prevention strategies in dental practices but also offered tools and education to better prepare CDA members and their teams for handling such incidents, both within and outside the workplace.