Dr. Mark Jurkovich Receives the NADP Gabryl Award, Dental Benefits Industry Top Honor
The National Association of Dental Plans (NADP) is pleased to announce that Dr. Mark Jurkovich has been honored with the dental benefits industry’s highest honor, the Gabryl Award. The award recognizes long-term, exceptional volunteer service that advances the dental benefits industry. NADP presented the award on Sept. 25 during the general session at CONVERGE, the association’s annual conference.
Dr. Jurkovich’s journey as a volunteer began in 2016 with his involvement in the Codes Sub-WorkGroup (SWG), where he has consistently contributed his expertise to advance dental benefits. His dedication continued in 2017 with the Diagnostic Terminology SWG and the Clinical Sub-WorkGroup (SWG), rising to vice chair from 2018-2019, and chairing the group since 2019. Dr. Jurkovich recently extended his service by joining the Future of Dental Care Access Task Force in October 2023.
The Clinical Sub-WorkGroup proudly nominated Dr. Jurkovich for the Gabryl Award, highlighting his extensive contributions and commitment to improving oral health standards. His remarkable achievements continue to shape the future of the dental benefits industry, building on his earlier recognition as the recipient of the Don Mayes Leadership Award in 2022.
Dr. Jurkovich's influence extends beyond his work with NADP. As a member of the Dental Quality Alliance (DQA) Executive Committee, he has been instrumental in shaping dental quality measures that drive significant advancements in care standards. His leadership has contributed to developing and implementing measures that enhance patient outcomes and streamline care processes, ensuring that dental quality remains rigorous and achievable.
In addition, Dr. Jurkovich played a pivotal role in developing the Child Core Set measures, adopted by Medicaid plans nationwide starting in 2024. These measures will improve children's access to quality oral health care and preventive services, impacting millions of young lives nationwide.
As the chair of the SNOMED International Dentistry Clinical Reference Group (CRG), Dr. Jurkovich has also been at the forefront of integrating advanced clinical terminologies into dental practice. His leadership in developing standardized terminologies has improved communication and interoperability within the dental community, enhancing the accuracy of dental records and ensuring consistency in patient care and benefits administration.
Dr. Jurkovich's remarkable contributions to dental quality standards, child oral health measures, and clinical terminologies have made a lasting impact on the industry. His leadership, dedication, and innovative approach make him a highly deserving recipient of the NADP Gabryl Award.