It is trully disheartening to see such proposed action being discussed. In the interest of the patient population of Virginia, I oppose the proposed change. It is misleading and dangerous to the public for a practitioner to advertise as specialist in any area without the necessary formal training. Residency programs that are CODA- accredited provide the necesary Knoweldge, Skills AND attitudes that constitute a specialist! 

In case that this proposed change goes through, I am concerned that the Virginia Dental Board will face significant increase in patient complaints and possible malpractice lawsuits that will undermine the public's trust to Doctors of our state. 

As a young father, I am considering a scenario where my child would need specialty care. It is my right to trully know if the Doctor has gone through rigorous accredite training prior to claiming he is a specialist! I am sure you feel the same. I urge you to oppose the proposed change on Specialty advertising.