BEGIN:VCALENDAR
VERSION:2.0
PRODID:-//National Association of Dental Plans - ECPv6.15.20//NONSGML v1.0//EN
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
METHOD:PUBLISH
X-WR-CALNAME:National Association of Dental Plans
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.nadp.org
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for National Association of Dental Plans
REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H
X-Robots-Tag:noindex
X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H
BEGIN:VTIMEZONE
TZID:America/Chicago
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20250309T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20251102T070000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20260308T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20261101T070000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20270314T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20271107T070000
END:STANDARD
END:VTIMEZONE
BEGIN:VTIMEZONE
TZID:America/New_York
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0400
TZNAME:EDT
DTSTART:20250309T070000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0400
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:EST
DTSTART:20251102T060000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0400
TZNAME:EDT
DTSTART:20260308T070000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0400
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:EST
DTSTART:20261101T060000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0400
TZNAME:EDT
DTSTART:20270314T070000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0400
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:EST
DTSTART:20271107T060000
END:STANDARD
END:VTIMEZONE
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260226T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260226T140000
DTSTAMP:20260425T103911
CREATED:20260212T220608Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260212T220724Z
UID:10000052-1772110800-1772114400@www.nadp.org
SUMMARY:[FREE WEBINAR] Value Based Dental – A Look at Promising Initiatives that Are Underway
DESCRIPTION:[FREE WEBINAR] Value-Based Dental – A Look at Promising Initiatives that Are Underway\nWhen: Thursday\, February 26 \nTime: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM (CT) \nPrice: FREE! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFollowing on prior webinars\, this third webinar in the Value-Based Dental series focuses on promising value-based initiatives that are already underway. Speakers will outline three promising initiatives underway in different parts of country and focused on different dental markets. A moderated discussion with three clinician executives will consider the upsides and challenges of launching value based dental programs. The speakers will also bring forward dental plan and DSO perspectives and thoughts on what happens next in terms of greater adoption of value-based approaches in the dental market. \nIf you missed the first two webinars in this series\, you can view them here. \n  \n\n\n\n \nJeremy Jonckheere \nVice President Strategic Payor Partnerships \nPDS Health \nJeremy Jonckheere’s work at PDS Health focuses on ways to grow new\, profitable revenue and spans strategic partnerships\, medical integration\, insurance markets and enterprise strategy.  Prior to his time with PDS\, Jeremy held several positions at DaVita HealthCare Partners engaged on strategy\, operations and government affairs.  He also worked at BMO’s Investment Bank on the Diversified Industries division team. Jeremy holds an MBA in Finance\, Marketing and Biotechnology from Northwestern University\, Kellogg School of Management and an HBA from the University of Western Ontario\, Richard Ivey School of Business. A former professional volleyball player and member of Canada’s National Team\, Jeremy spends his time with his wife and son traveling central America and exploring Florida’s winter activities. \n\n\n\n\n \nDr. Cherag Sarkari \nChief Dental Officer \nLIBERTY Dental Plan \nDr. Cherag Sarkari leads LIBERTY’s national clinical oversight and quality improvement. His 30-year career includes roles as provider\, academic\, and C-suite executive focused on innovation and outcomes. Dr. Sarkari joined LIBERTY Dental Plan in 2020 as the Dental Director of California\, and was promoted to National Dental Director for Quality Improvement and Clinical Innovation in 2023\, before he assumed his current role of Chief Dental Officer of LIBERTY Dental Plan. He is responsible for clinical oversight of  all of LIBERTY Dental Plan’s quality improvement activities and clinical innovations to improve member outcomes and experiences\, in addition to providing clinical oversight\, policy\, and quality management leadership. He brings 27 years of experience in the dental industry as a provider\, academic\, administrator\, and C-suite leadership. Dr. Sarkari holds a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS)\, a Master of Dental Surgery (MDS) in Prosthodontics and was conferred a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) by the Dental Board of California in 2003. He also received a Master’s in Oral Laser Applications at the University of Vienna. \n\n \nMichael Scialabba \nChief Clinical and Operations Officer \n42 North Dental \nDr. Michael Scialabba is the Chief Clinical and Operations Officer at 42 North Dental\, where he leads clinical strategy and operational excellence across one of the region’s leading dental support organizations. \nRaised by parents in the medical profession\, Dr. Scialabba knew early on that he wanted to pursue a career in healthcare. While earning his undergraduate degree in Finance from Boston College\, he gained hands-on experience working in an Emergency Room. It was during a volunteer experience at the Campus School for children with disabilities that he discovered his passion for dentistry. Seeing the measurable impact improved oral health had on medically complex children solidified his decision to pursue a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree at SUNY Stony Brook School of Dental Medicine\, graduating in 2003. \nHe completed his residency at the VA Medical Center in West Palm Beach\, Florida\, providing care to veterans with complex medical needs. Serving veterans during and after the events of 9/11 was particularly meaningful and further reinforced his belief in the connection between oral health and overall health. \nDr. Scialabba later became Chief of Dental at Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates in Peabody\, Massachusetts. When the opportunity arose to build and expand multiple dental practices\, he embraced the challenge\, ultimately founding Great Hill Dental Partners. The organization became known for its focus on whole health dentistry\, multi-specialty integration\, and a strong emphasis on patient education. \nToday\, as Chief Clinical and Operations Officer at 42 North Dental\, Dr. Scialabba oversees clinical quality\, operational performance\, and provider engagement across a broad network of practices. His leadership philosophy centers on patient-first care\, strong clinical culture\, and advancing the understanding that oral health plays a critical role in systemic health. Despite his executive responsibilities\, he remains closely connected to patient care and clinical teams. \nDr. Scialabba’s career reflects thoughtful risk-taking\, strategic growth\, and a sustained commitment to improving patient outcomes through comprehensive\, evidence-based dentistry.
URL:https://www.nadp.org/event/free-webinar-value-based-dental-a-look-at-promising-initiatives-that-are-underway/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.nadp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Static-Page-Default-Featured-Image-scaled.png
ORGANIZER;CN="NADP":MAILTO:jmay@nadp.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260318T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260318T140000
DTSTAMP:20260425T103911
CREATED:20260203T215232Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260304T231505Z
UID:10000051-1773838800-1773842400@www.nadp.org
SUMMARY:[FREE WEBINAR] Beyond Automation: AI Agents Unlock Up to 10x Productivity in Credentialing
DESCRIPTION:[FREE WEBINAR] Beyond Automation: AI Agents Unlock Up to 10x Productivity in Credentialing\nWhen: Wednesday\, March 18 \nTime: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM CT \nPrice: FREE! \nsponsored by: \n \nScaling networks has historically meant adding headcount. But as dental insurers face growth targets\, tighter resources\, and rising attrition risk\, agentic AI changes the equation. \nIn this webinar\, you’ll learn how Verifiable’s CredAgent™\, the industry’s first AI credentialing agent\, enables one credentialing specialist to oversee a team of autonomous agents\, unlocking up to 10x productivity and stronger operating margins. \nYou’ll walk away with a clear view of where AI is headed in credentialing\, plus practical ways to reduce administrative burden and scale performance without growing your team. \n  \nABOUT THE PRESENTERS \nBrett Dooies\, Head of Product\, Verifiable \nBrett Dooies is the Head of Product at Verifiable\, where he leads the development of AI-powered solutions to simplify healthcare credentialing and monitoring. With a decade of experience building enterprise software\, he specializes in applying advanced AI and analytics to enhance the customer experience and deliver transformative solutions. Drawing on his background modernizing banking software\, Brett is dedicated to creating products that drive operational excellence\, uphold regulatory compliance\, and improve data accuracy for Verifiable’s partners\, helping them scale with confidence in a complex ecosystem. \n  \n  \nRehan Mirza\, Chief Growth Officer\, Verifiable \nRehan Mirza is the Chief Growth Officer at Verifiable\, where he leads go-to-market strategy and growth initiatives focused on modernizing healthcare credentialing and provider data operations. He brings healthcare expertise from working in management consulting for health systems and deep experience across product marketing\, growth\, and customer strategy from high-growth technology companies\, such as CultureAmp\, Checkr\, and Zenefits. \n 
URL:https://www.nadp.org/event/free-webinar-how-dental-plans-can-modernize-provider-onboarding-for-a-changing-market/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.nadp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Screenshot-2026-02-03-at-3.48.44-PM.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260413T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260413T140000
DTSTAMP:20260425T103911
CREATED:20260311T185725Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260410T172835Z
UID:10000059-1776085200-1776088800@www.nadp.org
SUMMARY:[Webinar] Value Based Care in Dental: Infrastructure and Analytical Needs
DESCRIPTION:Value Based Care in Dental: Infrastructure and Analytical Needs\nWhen: April 13\, 2026 \nTime: 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm CT \nPrice: FREE \nIn the fourth webinar of the Value-Based Dental series\, speakers will address one of the most important competencies for success in value-based care — the development of internal analytics that identify high-value care and steer incentives to providers who deliver that care. Coming from different backgrounds and drawing upon different data — claims\, clinical\, and practice management — presenters will discuss ways to identify optimal care and develop the processes to reward it.\n\nView prior webinars in the series here.\n\n\n\n \nAndrea L. Clark \nDirector\, Healthcare Economics \nCareQuest Institute for Oral Health \nAndrea Clark is a seasoned health economist and data scientist. As Director for Healthcare Economics at CareQuest Institute for Oral Health\, Andrea leads the team responsible for designing tools to accelerate and evaluate the adoption of integrated value-based payment models in oral health and advises the Institute’s analytics team on data acquisition\, governance\, and strategy. Prior to joining the Institute in 2023\, Andrea consulted for many years to state Medicaid agencies and health insurance regulators. She lives with her family in Maine\, where she enjoys walks\, yoga and knitting in her spare time. \n  \n \nBrian Goetsch \nSenior Partner\, HealthScape Advisors \nBrian Goetsch is a Senior Partner at HealthScape Advisors\, a Chartis company\, where he advises health plans\, specialty health organizations\, and private equity investors on strategic\, financial\, and operational initiatives. His work focuses on helping organizations navigate complex healthcare markets\, expand products and services\, and identify opportunities for sustainable growth. Brian co-leads HealthScape’s Ancillary Center of Excellence\, where he focuses on the dental and vision ecosystems\, including managed care organizations\, providers\, laboratories\, and emerging technologies. He also has extensive product experience across supplemental health\, financial protection\, and lifestyle offerings. Throughout his consulting career\, Brian has led engagements on a wide range of healthcare topics\, including product expansion and diversification\, market and line of business entry\, network and cost of care management\, partnership strategy and execution\, and inorganic growth strategies. Before joining HealthScape\, Brian served as a senior executive at EyeMed Vision Care\, where he led the development and execution of the company’s partner channel “One Stop Shop” strategy. During his tenure\, he led several cross functional initiatives\, including EyeMed’s expansion into Medicaid\, investments in its Medicare Advantage solution\, and the launch of its medical surgical vision solution. He also helped structure and contract multiple strategic partner agreements. Earlier in his career\, Brian worked at Huron Consulting Group. He holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Accountancy from the University of Illinois and previously held certifications as a Certified Public Accountant and Certified Fraud Examiner. \n  \n \nMichael Urbach \nPresident\, New Markets\, Fluent \nMike oversees all aspects of driving revenue growth for Fluent’s dental analytics business solutions in new markets. Mike has over 20 years of experience in the healthcare informatics space and has developed and successfully sold a variety of informatics solutions to all stakeholders in the healthcare marketplace\, including payers\, providers\, suppliers\, and consumers. He has worked at informatics companies large and small\, public and private\, including HCIA\, Solucient\, Pharmetrics\, and IMS Health. Mike has a BA from Syracuse University\, an MBA\, and an MHA from the University of Pittsburgh. \n  \n  \n \nNatalia I. Chalmers DDS\, MHSc\, PhD \nDr. Chalmers is a board-certified pediatric dentist\, oral health policy expert\, and public health advocate who brings more than 20 years of clinical\, research\, industry\, and regulatory experience to CMS as Chief Dental Officer in the Office of the Administrator. Previously\, Dr. Chalmers served as a Dental Officer at the US Food and Drug Administration. \nDr. Chalmers has devoted her career to transforming scientific and healthcare data and information into actionable insights to address equity\, improve care\, and better inform policy and funding. Dr. Chalmers completed her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree at the Faculty of Dental Medicine of the Medical University of Sofia\, a residency in pediatric dentistry at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry\, and a Ph.D. in oral microbiology from the Graduate Partnerships Program of the University of Maryland School of Dentistry and the National Institute for Dental and Craniofacial Research at the National Institutes of Health\, Post-doctoral Fellowship at the Forsyth Institute\, and Clinical Research Fellowship at the National Institute for Dental and Craniofacial Research\, National Institutes of Health. \nDr. Chalmers’ research has not only advanced our understanding of oral care but has also led to significant improvements in the field. Her master’s degree in clinical research from Duke Medical University and a Certificate in Drug Development and Regulatory Science from the University of California San Francisco School of Pharmacy have equipped her with the necessary tools to turn her research into action. Her advocacy for health policy that encompasses dental well-being as a crucial aspect of overall care is a testament to her commitment to improving healthcare across the lifespan.
URL:https://www.nadp.org/event/webinar-value-based-care-in-dental-infrastructure-and-analytical-needs/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.nadp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/vecteezy_from-below-female-dentists-with-mirror-and-device-bending_60124155-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="NADP":MAILTO:jmay@nadp.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260415
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260417
DTSTAMP:20260425T103911
CREATED:20260126T205738Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260126T210321Z
UID:10000050-1776211200-1776383999@www.nadp.org
SUMMARY:2026 Advocacy in Action
DESCRIPTION:As key players in the dental benefits industry\, it’s time to make your voice heard where it matters most. Representatives and senators are eager to listen to the invaluable insights and expertise that only you can provide as a leader in the industry. This is your golden opportunity to be the catalyst for change.\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhen: April 15-16\, 2026\n\n\n\nWhere: Hilton Washington DC Capitol Hill\n\n\nPrice: Free – NADP Members Only\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRegistration Closes After Feb. 28\n\n\n\n\n\nClick here to view the schedule.
URL:https://www.nadp.org/event/2026-advocacy-in-action/
LOCATION:Hilton Washington D.C.\, Capitol Hill 525 New Jersey Ave\, NW\, Washington\, 20001\, United States
CATEGORIES:NADP Conference
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.nadp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/AIA-website-hero-image.png
ORGANIZER;CN="NADP":MAILTO:jmay@nadp.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260423T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260423T143000
DTSTAMP:20260425T103911
CREATED:20260218T225759Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260318T165906Z
UID:10000053-1776949200-1776954600@www.nadp.org
SUMMARY:2026 Consortium Session #1
DESCRIPTION:This year’s consortium topic is Innovations to Dental Benefits and Building Support for Them. This collaborative program will examine and consider the ways that dental plans can innovate their benefits\, including new cost-sharing structures\, member incentives and transparency tools\, and tools that incentivize providers and members to select high-value services. Relatedly\, the consortium will deepen the toolbox regarding how dental plans can influence key stakeholders\, including employers\, brokers\, and providers\, toward embracing innovations. \n\nSession 1: April 23\, 2026 \n1:00 – 2:30 PM (CT)\nConsortium Kick-off: Building Support for Innovation by Understanding What Stakeholders Care About \nIn this consortium session\, after kicking off with a review of our goals and a preview of the exciting content to come\, we’ll delve into how to view dental innovations through the eyes of stakeholders: members\, employers\, brokers\, providers\, and insurers. We will discuss what each stakeholder wants (and doesn’t want) from a dental plan\, drawing on industry surveys and research\, Milliman consultant expertise\, and your interactive\, real-time input! This exercise will form a consistent framework for future sessions\, so we may view innovations through the lens of how they improve one or more stakeholders’ experience. \nRecommended Job Areas: All areas \n  \nSpeakers: \n  \n \nJoanne Fontana\, FSA\, MAAA \nPrincipal and Consulting Actuary at Milliman \n\nJoanne has consulted for insurance companies\, including many major dental carriers\, as well as employers\, government entities\, and other organizations. Her focus has been largely on managed care and dental insurance\, with experience in premium rate development\, product development\, provider contract analysis\, and health care reform. Over the past decade\, Joanne has come to be known as an industry expert in dental product and pricing topics; she regularly presents on dental-related issues at industry forums and has authored many topical articles. Joanne has worked closely with the National Association of Dental Plans\, the California Association of Dental Plans\, the American Dental Association\, and other dental clients to assess the impact of health care reform on the dental industry. She manages Milliman’s Dental Actuarial Analytics PPO Network Study\, a product that uses a vast contributor database of dental claims to provide competitive insights on dental network discounts and utilization to study participants. Joanne has worked with carriers and employer groups on the dental insurance procurement process. She has worked on Medicaid dental procurements with both state entities and bidders and has done core actuarial dental pricing and underwriting work for many carriers in the commercial\, ACA\, and Medicare Advantage dental markets. In addition to Joanne’s dental consulting\, she also manages Milliman’s GASBhelp.com\, an online tool allowing small government entities to complete valuations of post-retirement health benefits. Prior to joining Milliman\, Joanne spent more than 10 years as an actuary with Cigna\, where she held various healthcare financial leadership roles\, including chief actuary of Cigna’s dental insurance business. \n  \n\n \nAndrew Timcheck\, FSA\, CERA\, MAAA \nPrincipal and Consulting Actuary at Milliman \nAndrew Timcheck is a principal and consulting actuary with the Chicago office of Milliman. He joined the firm in 2018.Andrew is a credentialed actuary with over 15 years of experience working with plan sponsors\, health plans\, and pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs). Andrew has assisted his plan sponsor clients in all aspects of plan strategy and plan management\, including benefit design\, budgeting\, contribution strategy\, benchmarking\, vendor procurement\, stop loss analyses\, reserve development\, retiree benefits\, and health care reform strategy. He also has extensive experience in the pharmacy space\, including comprehensive pharmacy benefit design\, contract reviews\, procurements\, market checks\, analytics\, and audits. In addition\, he has supported his health plan clients in providing statements of actuarial opinion\, rate development\, and product strategy support. Lastly\, he has assisted his PBM clients with pricing strategy\, procurement\, and analytics. \nPrior to joining Milliman\, Andrew spent time as a healthcare benefits consultant to large employers.
URL:https://www.nadp.org/event/2026-nadp-consortium-session-1/
LOCATION:Zoom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.nadp.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/row-of-business-people-listening-to-presentation-at-seminar-with-focus-on-elegant-youn-SBI-300739587-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="NADP":MAILTO:jmay@nadp.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260514T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260514T143000
DTSTAMP:20260425T103911
CREATED:20260305T225909Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260318T165949Z
UID:10000054-1778763600-1778769000@www.nadp.org
SUMMARY:Consortium Session #2: Dental insurance benefits innovation
DESCRIPTION:Session 2: May 14\, 2026 \n1:00 – 2:30 PM (CT)\nTopic: Dental insurance benefits innovation\nDifferentiating plan design through emerging benefit structures and implementation considerations. \nRecommended Job Areas: Product Development\, Product Strategy\, Actuarial\, Underwriting\, Network Strategy\, Sales and Account Management\, Compliance and Regulatory Affairs\, Operations \n  \nJill Purcell  \nHead of Dental and Vision Product and Network Management  \nGuardian Life \nJill has been in the group insurance industry for 17 years and has been with Guardian\, leading the dental product since 2019. She currently leads the Dental and Vision Product team as well as the Network Management team responsible for ensuring Guardian’s products remain profitable while ensuring innovation and member experience are at the forefront. \n  \nMark Burkhard\, MBA \nNational Dental & Vision Practice Leader  \nWillis Towers Watson \nMark Burkhard\, MBA\, is a highly accomplished professional who\, since July 2018\, serves as the National Dental & Vision Practice Leader at Willis Towers Watson. With an extensive 36-year career\, Mark specializes in providing expert consultation on group dental and vision plans\, supporting the firm’s efforts to advise its largest clients in the Health and Benefits line of business. In his current role\, Mark excels at evaluating and recommending dental and vision plans on a national scale\, emphasizing the value of quality benefits within an employer’s overall package to enhance employee well-being. Prior to joining Willis Towers Watson\, Mark held leadership positions at major insurers\, including CIGNA Dental\, Humana Dental\, MetLife\, and Aetna Dental & Vision\, where he led the dental and vision National Accounts growth team. As the leader of Dental and Vision vendor relations at Willis Towers Watson\, Mark maintains strong connections with the leadership teams of major national and regional carriers. He actively engages with industry organizations like the National Association of Dental Plans and the American Dental Association’s Health Policy Institute\, providing crucial insights into market trends. Mark’s expertise spans provider contracting\, plan evaluation and modernization\, clinical integration\, and financial analysis and negotiation. He earned his bachelor’s degree from St. Bonaventure University in New York and holds an MBA from Pepperdine University in Los Angeles. Currently residing in Valencia\, California\, with his wife and two children\, Mark is a distinguished consultant\, bringing unparalleled insight to the dynamic field of dental and vision benefits. \nConsortium Session #2 Sponsorship Available!\nAre you looking to elevate your brand and engage with key industry decision-makers? Sponsorship opportunities are now available! \nLEARN MORE ABOUT SPONSORSHIPS
URL:https://www.nadp.org/event/consortium-session-2-dental-insurance-benefits-innovation/
LOCATION:Zoom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.nadp.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/row-of-business-people-listening-to-presentation-at-seminar-with-focus-on-elegant-youn-SBI-300739587-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="NADP":MAILTO:jmay@nadp.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260617T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260617T143000
DTSTAMP:20260425T103911
CREATED:20260305T225952Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260416T211014Z
UID:10000055-1781701200-1781706600@www.nadp.org
SUMMARY:Consortium Session #3: The mouth is part of the body
DESCRIPTION:Session 3: June 17\, 2026\n1:00 – 2:30 PM (CT)\nTopic: The mouth is part of the body\nHolistic health-focused dental innovations\, chronic condition programs\, and medical dental integration. \nRecommended Job Areas: Clinical Affairs\, Product Development\, Value Based Care\, Population Health\, Medical Dental Integration Teams\, Provider Network\, Care Management\, Quality Improvement \n  \nDr. Suzanne Ebert \nVice President and Chief Clinical Officer  \nUSAble Life \nDr. Suzanne Ebert\, DMD\, FAGD\, ICD\, is Vice President and Chief Clinical Officer at USAble Life. She leads the Dental4Health® initiative\, which auto-enrolls members based on medical diagnoses to improve outcomes for conditions like diabetes\, heart disease\, and pregnancy. With over 20 years of clinical experience\, Dr. Ebert previously served as Vice President at the American Dental Association. She earned her dental degree from the University of Louisville\, completed residency at the University of Florida\, and holds leadership and volunteer roles in several dental organizations. She is a Fellow of the International College of Dentists and the Academy of General Dentistry. \n  \n \nRobert Lewando\, DDS\, MBA \nExecutive Director\, Specialty Benefits Professional Services \nBlue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts \nRobert Lewando\, DDS\, MBA\, is executive director of Specialty Benefits Professional Services at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts\, where he oversees dental coverage for 1.1 million members. Lewando spent about 20 years at Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates\, a multispecialty medical and dental group practice in Boston\, where he held both clinical and administrative roles. He served as chief of the organization’s largest fee-for-service dental practice for most of that time. He continues to practice periodontology one day per week while focusing the remainder of his time on his role at BCBSMA. He has contributed to the development of strategies aimed at improving overall member health by identifying medical conditions where dental care plays a key role. This work led to the creation of condition-specific\, member-focused dental benefits\, including the Total Health program. Lewando earned a Bachelor of Science in chemical engineering from Tufts University. He received his dental degree from Columbia University College of Dental Medicine and completed specialty training in periodontics through a joint program with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and Harvard School of Dental Medicine. He also holds an MBA from Boston College. He serves as the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association’s voting representative on the American Dental Association’s Code Maintenance Committee\, which oversees CDT code updates. Lewando is a diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and holds a clinical appointment at the Harvard School of Dental Medicine. \n  \nConsortium Session #3 Sponsorship Available! \nAre you looking to elevate your brand and engage with key industry decision-makers? Sponsorship opportunities are now available! \nLEARN MORE ABOUT SPONSORSHIPS
URL:https://www.nadp.org/event/consortium-session-3-the-mouth-is-part-of-the-body/
LOCATION:Zoom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.nadp.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/row-of-business-people-listening-to-presentation-at-seminar-with-focus-on-elegant-youn-SBI-300739587-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="NADP":MAILTO:jmay@nadp.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260715T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260715T143000
DTSTAMP:20260425T103911
CREATED:20260305T230035Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260318T170138Z
UID:10000056-1784120400-1784125800@www.nadp.org
SUMMARY:Consortium Session #4: Technology innovation in dental insurance
DESCRIPTION:Session 4: July 15\, 2026\n1:00 – 2:30 PM (CT)\nTopic: Technology innovation in dental insurance\nAI\, automation\, teledentistry\, and advanced data tools for insurers\, providers\, and members. \nRecommended Job Areas: Information Technology\, Digital Transformation\, Operations\, Claims and Payment Integrity\, Data Analytics\, Fraud Waste and Abuse\, Provider Network Operations\, Member Experience \nThis session is sponsored by 8 West Consulting\n \n  \nEric Kirchner \nSenior Advisor\, Dental Business Intelligence & Innovation \nCigna Dental Innovation Studio \nEric Kirchner is a dental industry veteran with thirty years of experience. With stints as a sales person\, sales leader\, and product development lead Eric now works as part of the Cigna Dental Innovation Studio. The Cigna Dental Innovation Studio\, drives rapid piloting and program development to Cigna clients and customers. Additionally\, Eric’s role includes providing market insights and competitive intelligence. \nEric’s background includes roles as Chief Operating Officer of Christ’s Hope\, an International AIDS relief organization based in Namibia. His career includes stops with Allstate\, Blue Cross and Blue Shield\, Prudential\, General Electric\, and dental-industry consulting work. \n  \n\nJohn Schaak \n\n\nChief Innovation and Growth Officer  \nSKYGEN \n\n\n\nAs Chief Innovation & Growth Officer\, John Schaak leads company efforts to solve industry problems by identifying new opportunities and markets\, as well as innovative new products and services. With his strong commitment to exemplary client service and collaborative approach to both internal and external relationships\, John has a demonstrated ability to help players in the healthcare continuum grow their businesses while reducing costs\, improving operations\, and serving their members more effectively. \nJohn brings extensive leadership experience to his position. He was previously the President of Scion Dental and SKYGEN’s Chief Operating Officer. Before that\, John was a Partner with the national law firm Quarles & Brady. John is actively involved with the National Association of Dental Plans (NADP)\, currently serving as a member of the workgroups for both Operations and Government Funded Programs. John also serves on the Board of Directors for the Medicaid|Medicare|CHIP Services Dental Association (MSDA) and previously served as a board member of the National Association of Vision Care Plans (NAVCP). \n\n  \nTeresa Duncan\, MS \nPresident\, Odyssey Management \nFounder\, Dental Revenue Network \nTeresa is a speaker and writer with over 25 years of experience in healthcare. Her areas of expertise include revenue protection using proven accounts receivable and insurance methods; and helping doctors and managers establish solid management systems. She recently founded Dental Revenue Network to bring carriers\, billers and revenue cycle companies together. She is the author of Moving Your Patients to Yes: Easy Insurance Conversations and a regular contributing author to the ADA’s Annual CDT Companion Guide™. Teresa is a frequent contributor to multiple dental publications. She was a founding Trustee for the auxiliary learning focused DALE Foundation. Teresa is a member of several organizations including Dental Entrepreneurial Women and the National Association of Dental Plans. She has been named one of the Top 25 Women in Dentistry by Dental Products Report Magazine and is recognized annually as a Leader in Consulting by Dentistry Today. Her podcasts “Nobody Told Me That!” and “Chew On This!” provide regular coding and management updates. Teresa received her Master’s Degree in Healthcare Management from Marymount University. \n 
URL:https://www.nadp.org/event/consortium-session-4-technology-innovation-in-dental-insurance/
LOCATION:Zoom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.nadp.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/row-of-business-people-listening-to-presentation-at-seminar-with-focus-on-elegant-youn-SBI-300739587-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="NADP":MAILTO:jmay@nadp.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260826T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260826T143000
DTSTAMP:20260425T103911
CREATED:20260305T230117Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260416T211454Z
UID:10000057-1787749200-1787754600@www.nadp.org
SUMMARY:Consortium Session #5:  Provider Network and Access Innovations
DESCRIPTION:Session 5: August 26\, 2026 \n1:00 – 2:30 PM (CT)\nTopic: Provider Network and Access Innovations \nInnovations in information flow and connectivity among patients\, providers\, and insurers\, including the move toward real-time provider data and optimizing networks for patient access. \nRecommended Job Areas: Provider Network\, Network Access and Adequacy\, Credentialing and Provider Enrollment\, Clinical Affairs\, Care Management\, Health Equity and Access\, Member Services\, Community Outreach \n  \nCharles Scott\nManager of Sales Operations\nDenteMax \nCharles has been with DenteMax since 2019 and in his role of Manager of Sales Operations\, he focuses on DenteMax’s financials and network analytics. He leads the DenteMax Client Support Team and together\, they offer industry-leading reporting and sales analytics. Charles also works with the industry’s top payers to help build optimized stack network solutions. Prior to his current role\, Charles managed the Account Services Team at DenteMax and was an Assistant Vice President at Huntington National Bank. The Michigan native holds a Bachelor of Science in finance with a minor in information systems management from Oakland University and a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in finance from Wayne State University. \n  \nStephen Park\nDirector\, Dental Analytics & Reporting\nDearborn Group \nStephen Park is the Director of Analytics at Dearborn Group\, supporting national dental networks including Health Care Services Corporation’s five Blue Plans\, Dental Network of America\, and DenteMax. With more than 15 years of experience in healthcare and dental\, Stephen specializes in provider data\, reimbursement dynamics\, and recruitment analytics. He is adept at navigating fragmented provider data environments and developing solutions for directory accuracy\, credentialing\, and network integrity. In his current role\, Stephen leads analytics strategy at the intersection of interoperability\, digital transformation\, and data governance. This includes designing scalable data ecosystems and building KPI frameworks and reporting infrastructures. \n\nConsortium Session #5 sponsorship available!\nAre you looking to elevate your brand and engage with key industry decision-makers? Sponsorship opportunities are now available! \nLEARN MORE ABOUT SPONSORSHIPS
URL:https://www.nadp.org/event/consortium-session-5-access-to-care-innovations/
LOCATION:Zoom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.nadp.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/row-of-business-people-listening-to-presentation-at-seminar-with-focus-on-elegant-youn-SBI-300739587-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="NADP":MAILTO:jmay@nadp.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260928T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261001T130000
DTSTAMP:20260425T103911
CREATED:20260316T203147Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260316T203223Z
UID:10000060-1790589600-1790859600@www.nadp.org
SUMMARY:CONVERGE 2026
DESCRIPTION:Get Ready for the Ultimate Industry Experience at CONVERGE 2026!\nMark your calendars for September 28-Oct. 1\, 2026\, and join us at the JW Marriott Indianapolis for an electrifying 2.5 days of game-changing insights\, powerful networking\, and face-to-face connections with the biggest innovators and decision-makers in the dental benefits industry. \nThis is more than just a conference—it’s where the future of dental benefits takes shape! Don’t miss your chance to be part of it! \nWhy You Can’t Miss CONVERGE 2026!\n\nElite Networking Like Never Before: Step into a powerhouse of opportunity—meet top industry leaders\, decision-makers\, and peers at exclusive networking sessions\, social events\, and face-to-face interactions that could redefine your career.\nGame-Changing Professional Development: Stay ahead of the curve with cutting-edge educational sessions designed to give you a competitive edge in the evolving dental benefits industry.\nSeamless Industry Connections with Dental Interact: Engage directly with speakers\, industry leaders\, and fellow attendees in real time through Dental Interact—your gateway to insightful discussions and impactful connections.\nCONVERGE Mobile App – Your On-the-Go Event Hub: Navigate CONVERGE effortlessly with our intuitive mobile app—access event updates\, connect with attendees\, and download contact lists at your fingertips.\nDiscover\, Learn\, and Save at the Discovery Zone: Get hands-on with the latest innovations\, explore cost-saving solutions\, and gain insider knowledge with fast-paced DZ Demos—all in one place.\nUnforgettable Sponsored Events & Prizes: From interactive games to exciting giveaways\, CONVERGE isn’t just about learning—it’s about having a blast while doing it!\nExtend Your Stay: Turn your trip into a full experience—discover the beauty\, culture\, and attractions of Indianapolis while making the most of your time.  [more]\n\nPlease note: A virtual component will not be offered in 2026 \nDon’t miss your chance to be part of CONVERGE 2026 in Indianapolis\, Indiana —the ultimate event to elevate your dental benefits expertise and stay ahead of industry innovation. \nWe can’t wait to welcome you to CONVERGE – Where Innovation Meets Opportunity! \nInterested in exhibiting or sponsoring in 2026? Learn more.
URL:https://www.nadp.org/event/converge-2026/
LOCATION:JW Marriott Indianapolis\, 10 S West Street\, Indianapolis\, Indiana\, 46204\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.nadp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/02_JW.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="NADP":MAILTO:jmay@nadp.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261001T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261001T123000
DTSTAMP:20260425T103911
CREATED:20260305T230358Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260318T170244Z
UID:10000058-1790843400-1790857800@www.nadp.org
SUMMARY:Consortium Session #6: CONVERGE In-Person Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Session 6: October 1\, 2026 \n8:30 – 12:00 PM (ET)\nCONVERGE In-Person Workshop\nLocation: JW Marriott Indianapolis \nCollaborating with industry experts to develop model documents and best practices that can be implemented across dental plans. \nRecommended Job Areas: All areas \n  \nRegister for CONVERGE\n  \n  \nTeresa Duncan\, MS \nPresident\, Odyssey Management \nFounder\, Dental Revenue Network \nTeresa is a speaker and writer with over 25 years of experience in healthcare. Her areas of expertise include revenue protection using proven accounts receivable and insurance methods; and helping doctors and managers establish solid management systems. She recently founded Dental Revenue Network to bring carriers\, billers and revenue cycle companies together. She is the author of Moving Your Patients to Yes: Easy Insurance Conversations and a regular contributing author to the ADA’s Annual CDT Companion Guide™. Teresa is a frequent contributor to multiple dental publications. She was a founding Trustee for the auxiliary learning focused DALE Foundation. Teresa is a member of several organizations including Dental Entrepreneurial Women and the National Association of Dental Plans. She has been named one of the Top 25 Women in Dentistry by Dental Products Report Magazine and is recognized annually as a Leader in Consulting by Dentistry Today. Her podcasts “Nobody Told Me That!” and “Chew On This!” provide regular coding and management updates. Teresa received her Master’s Degree in Healthcare Management from Marymount University. \n  \nMark Burkhard\, MBA \nNational Dental & Vision Practice Leader \nWillis Towers Watson \nMark Burkhard\, MBA\, is a highly accomplished professional who\, since July 2018\, serves as the National Dental & Vision Practice Leader at Willis Towers Watson. With an extensive 36-year career\, Mark specializes in providing expert consultation on group dental and vision plans\, supporting the firm’s efforts to advise its largest clients in the Health and Benefits line of business. In his current role\, Mark excels at evaluating and recommending dental and vision plans on a national scale\, emphasizing the value of quality benefits within an employer’s overall package to enhance employee well-being. Prior to joining Willis Towers Watson\, Mark held leadership positions at major insurers\, including CIGNA Dental\, Humana Dental\, MetLife\, and Aetna Dental & Vision\, where he led the dental and vision National Accounts growth team. As the leader of Dental and Vision vendor relations at Willis Towers Watson\, Mark maintains strong connections with the leadership teams of major national and regional carriers. He actively engages with industry organizations like the National Association of Dental Plans and the American Dental Association’s Health Policy Institute\, providing crucial insights into market trends. Mark’s expertise spans provider contracting\, plan evaluation and modernization\, clinical integration\, and financial analysis and negotiation. He earned his bachelor’s degree from St. Bonaventure University in New York and holds an MBA from Pepperdine University in Los Angeles. Currently residing in Valencia\, California\, with his wife and two children\, Mark is a distinguished consultant\, bringing unparalleled insight to the dynamic field of dental and vision benefits. \n  \nOPT-IN to the Consortium\n  \nIn-Person Session Sponsorships Are Available!\nAre you looking to elevate your brand and engage with key industry decision-makers? Sponsorship opportunities are now available! \nLEARN MORE ABOUT SPONSORSHIPS
URL:https://www.nadp.org/event/consortium-session-6-converge-in-person-workshop/
LOCATION:JW Marriott Indianapolis\, 10 S West Street\, Indianapolis\, Indiana\, 46204\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.nadp.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/row-of-business-people-listening-to-presentation-at-seminar-with-focus-on-elegant-youn-SBI-300739587-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="NADP":MAILTO:jmay@nadp.org
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR