NADP Insights – Oct. 2020

NADP Insights

By NADP Board Chair Ron Bolden, Cigna

This month’s column will be my last as your NADP Board Chair. Because I believe in the advancement of leadership and this organization, I want to spend my final year on the board to help develop new leaders. My term as your NADP Board Chair has been extremely rewarding, and it is an experience I will always treasure. Before I go, I want to share some highlights from the past few years and key transitions in place.

CONVERGE has reached new heights of excellence as evidenced by the growth in attendance and attendees’ feedback. Virtual CONVERGE 2020 opened the door for more participation from our member companies resulting in more than 700 attendees. In addition, the average rating for educational content was 92%!

The Research program continues to refine our reports to provide meaningful data. For example, the Networks Report now includes Metropolitan Statistical Area data and is available to all membership categories as part of their membership. This year Research introduced the Social Responsibility Survey.

Our advocacy team has been focused and strong in their representation of our members. The virtual Advocacy in Action (AIA) event featured valued, uninterrupted discussions with key members of Congress. The live in-person event last year saw a marked increase in attendance and the realization several Congressional leaders now have a better understanding of dental benefits and our issues. Undoubtedly, AIA has enhanced our reputation as the voice of the dental benefits industry.

NADP has also been the leader on key legislative issues and industry challenges. NADP has produced resources on numerous issues ranging from COVID-19 to network leasing and more.

Despite a global pandemic, NADP maintains a knowledgeable voice on the stakeholder groups governing electronic standards. Earlier this month, NADP represented the industry at virtual meetings of the American Dental Association, including the Standards Committee on Dental Informatics.

Finally, I want to note the conclusion of a successful search and hire of our Executive Director Eme Augustini. With close to a year of experience in this role, Eme has done a remarkable job in leading our association.

In conclusion, NADP will continue to provide its core services, adapting and updating them, as necessary. NADP remains a responsive organization because of the knowledge and expertise of our volunteer leaders.

In the next few days, NADP will announce the 2021 volunteers. In addition, the Board of Directors has elected its 2021 officers. Both the Board and Volunteers will contribute to the development of the strategic plan and the success and growth of NADP. I am grateful to be part of this process. I am also honored to have served as your Board Chair these past two years.