November 6, 2025
You’ve probably seen messages from WSDA asking you not to vote in the upcoming WDS/DDWA election. I respect WSDA and the work they do. I’ve proudly served as their President twice. But on this issue, I disagree – this election matters and I ask that you hear me out.
This election determines who represents practicing dentists on the DDWA Board, who brings our voice, our perspective, and our real-world experience into the room where decisions are made.
Choosing not to vote doesn’t send a message. It silences us.
Throughout my career, I’ve worked to strengthen our profession and advocate for fair, effective solutions which support both providers and patients.
As a WSDA president, an education leader, a practice owner, and a DDWA board member, I’ve seen firsthand the challenges and opportunities facing Washington dentists. Those experiences have shaped my commitment to ensuring dentists remain engaged, informed, and represented.
Two of the most important issues we face today — out-of-network reimbursement and dental loss ratio — are currently being thoughtfully addressed through an agreed-upon collaborative process involving WSDA, Delta Dental of Washington, and other dental benefits stakeholders.
The outcomes of the collaborative process will be reported to the Washinton State Legislature and is the best/only path forward to build both collaboration and long-term solutions for our profession and our patients.
And, just as critical as this important work, is that we remain active participants on the DDWA board.
I believe that having a practicing dentist who understands the realities of running a practice and who has spent decades advocating for providers and patients benefits us all.
And, because of that, I strongly encourage you to participate by voting and not let a misguided campaign by WSDA stall the progress we are making.
You can vote now through Friday, November 14, at the Annual Member Meeting. Please take a moment to cast your ballot here: https://www.cesvote.com/.
Our profession is strongest when we show up, stay engaged, and speak from experience. Your vote matters – use it.
Dr. Dennis Bradshaw, DDS
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