JDA Lauded for Ensuring That Practice of Dentistry is First-World

Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, says the Jamaica Dental Association (JDA) can claim success in ensuring that the practice of dentistry in the country is First-World and totally modernised.

Mr. Holness, who was speaking at the Association’s 60th annual conference at Royalton Blue Waters Hotel in Falmouth, Trelawny, on February 14, said the group must also be lauded for taking on other important roles, such as ensuring that standards – both professional and ethical – are in keeping with the trajectory of the technology and new practices in the dental field.

“The JDA has, indeed, done a great job in terms of ensuring the integration of new technology into local practice… developing innovation… and ensuring that the outreach and volunteerism of the dental profession is well established in Jamaica,” Mr. Holness said.

“I want to take this opportunity to commend our dentists, who have given of their time and resources to ensure that Jamaicans can have beautiful smiles,” he added.

The Prime Minister, in the meantime, said the fact that legislation that regulate dentistry have not been updated for a long time, would now give the JDA a legitimate opportunity to lobby the Government for changes to (the law) – concern the association has been voicing for quite some time.

“The laws that you have pointed out are absolutely important and they are reflected in the new legislation that could emerge to regulate dentistry, certainly data protection,” the Prime Minister said.

“That is one that is going to affect almost all professions or industries. So, I’m certain that the Minister of Health looks forward to your lobby,” he added.

Mr. Holness noted that for the past 60 years, the JDA has provided a platform to dental professionals locally and internationally to share their findings and build relationships through networking.

“So, it is in that regard that I extend warm greetings and congratulations to the JDA on its 60th annual convention. Over the years, the JDA has given professionals like dentists, dental auxiliaries, dental technicians, and dental students from numerous countries a local avenue to satisfy their continuing education requirements,” the Prime Minister said.

He said that in promoting philanthropy, the JDA has managed community outreach programmes in schools and communities across the island, with significant focus on outreach projects, noting that with all the stellar achievements and advantages to be gained, “I implore all dental professionals to join the JDA as an avenue for career development and promoting optimal oral health”.