President of the National Association of Dentists pledged “to lead the unity of the dental world”

KOREA: The 33rd National Association of Branch Directors of the Korean Dental Association (referred to as the Association of Branch Directors) convened in Yuseong, Daejeon on the 22nd. 

The meeting, known as the Branch Heads’ Council, serves as a platform to gather input from branch presidents nationwide and address various pending issues in the dental field. Held regularly each year, this council plays a crucial role in fostering unity and resolving challenges faced by the dental industry.

A Multifaceted Agenda

During the recent meeting, the Branch Heads’ Council delved into several crucial topics, including:

Distribution of Dental Liability Insurance Proceeds: One of the key discussions centered on whether the profits or surpluses from liability insurance should be distributed to each branch in the form of subsidies. Different perspectives emerged on this matter, with some suggesting that certain aspects of government medical expense support were excessively addressed. 

As a result, Chairman Park Tae-geun was tasked with facilitating effective communication among stakeholders to reach a consensus.

• Association’s Lawsuit Response: The council also addressed the association’s lawsuit, seeking resolution on this issue that affects the dental field.
• Revision and Adjustment of Election-Related Regulations: The council aimed to identify and address any inadequacies in the association’s election-related regulations, enhancing transparency and fairness in the electoral process.
• Introduction of Electronic Payment System: Exploring the implementation of an electronic payment system to streamline financial transactions within the dental cooperative.
• Cooperation in Participating in Smile Run Events: Discussions on enhancing collaboration among dental cooperatives for participation in Smile Run events.
• Disaster Relief and Donations: The council also covered strategies to provide support during flood disasters, as well as initiatives for charitable donations.

Strengthening Unity and Consensus

Lee Chang-joo, president of the Chungcheongnam-do branch and secretary of the Branch Directors’ Council, emphasized the importance of achieving unity within the dental industry and leveraging the council’s collective strength to address pending issues effectively.

The council will convene quarterly meetings to ensure continuous communication and decision-making. Resolutions will be reached with a two-thirds majority consensus to solidify the official position of the council.

Choi Yong-jin, chairman of the Jeonnam Branch and head of the Branch Heads’ Council, expressed gratitude to all branch heads for their active participation in the meeting and their valuable contributions during in-depth discussions. Their commitment to addressing the challenges faced by the dental industry was evident through their dedication to finding collaborative solutions.

The Branch Heads’ Council remains committed to fostering cooperation, unity, and progress within the dental cooperative, thereby advancing the dental field in Korea.