Monetary payments - rewards - gifts - to third parties for solicitation of patients should be illegal.

It is considered illegal behavior by the Federal Government in their heathcare contracts and also laws deallng wih dental equipment and supply sales. Other states and professions consider it illegal. The American Dental Association states that the behavior is unethical in their ADA Principals of Ethics and Code of Professional Conduct. Numerous other dental organizations such as the Academy of General Dentistry, American College of Dentsits, Internatonal College of Dentists, dental speciality organizations and more all consider this activfty unethical.

Solicitation of patients through any monetary incentives or services  provided is a misrepresentation and harmful to the public and  reputations of all ethically practicinfg healthcare providers. This activity should be considered illegal in Virginia and now properly addressed by the Virginia Board of Dentistry.

Respectfully submitted,

William J. Bennett, D.D.S.