ADHA’s committees play a vital role in advancing the mission of the association and supporting the dental hygiene profession. Each committee operates under a specific charge that defines its purpose, responsibilities, and scope of work. See below how this committee contributes to ADHA’s strategic priorities.
Procedure Coding Committee
Charge and Responsibilities
Purpose:
The Coding Committee is established to represent the interests of dental hygienists in the Current Dental Terminology (CDT) coding process and to support the efficient and accurate documentation of dental hygiene services. The Committee works on behalf of the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) to review, develop, and advocate for CDT codes that reflect the scope and value of dental hygiene care.
Charge:
The Coding Committee is charged with the following responsibilities:
- Review and Develop CDT Codes:
Evaluate current CDT codes and identify opportunities to enhance representation of dental hygiene procedures. This includes submitting requests to the Code Maintenance Committee (CMC) of the American Dental Association (ADA) to:
– Propose new codes for emerging or underrepresented procedures.
– Recommend revisions to existing codes to ensure accuracy, clarity, and clinical relevance.
– Advocate for the deletion of outdated or redundant codes.
– Suggest the most appropriate placement for new codes within the CDT structure. - Prepare and Submit Code Action Requests (CARs):
Draft and submit formal Code Action Requests to the ADA CMC in alignment with identified priorities and procedural timelines. Ensure that all proposals are supported by appropriate rationale, evidence, and stakeholder input. - Participation in the ADA Code Maintenance Committee (CMC):
Represent ADHA at the annual ADA CMC meeting and other related engagements. The Committee may convene quarterly or as needed to prepare for participation, review proposals, and coordinate strategy. - Support ADHA and Stakeholders:
Serve as a resource for ADHA leadership, members, and external partners on coding-related issues, including questions about interpretation, application, and documentation of CDT codes related to dental hygiene services. - Reporting:
Submit an annual report to the ADHA Board of Directors summarizing committee activities, outcomes, and recommendations. Interim reports may also be submitted as needed to inform the Board of developments, time-sensitive proposals, or strategic opportunities. Contribute to content for Hygienist Hub and webinars as appropriate.
Membership:
The Coding Committee is composed of individuals with expertise in dental hygiene practice, dental coding, reimbursement, and policy. Members are appointed by ADHA leadership, approved by the Board of Directors, and serve a 2-year term.
Meetings:
The Committee shall meet at least quarterly, or more frequently as necessary, to fulfill its responsibilities and prepare for participation in the ADA CMC process.
Staff Liaison:
A designated staff member from ADHA will serve as the liaison to coordinate meetings, support documentation, and facilitate communication with the ADA and other stakeholders.
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For questions about ADHA committees, please contact [email protected].