The Harrisburg Area
dental society (HADS) is a professional, non-profit organization primarily composed of dentists practicing in the Harrisburg, Pennsylvania area. It serves as a constituent society of the Fifth District Dental Society of the Pennsylvania Dental Association, which in turn is a constituent of the American Dental Association. This tiered structure ensures that HADS operates in alignment with broader national and state dental standards and advocacy efforts.
HADS's core mission revolves around three key pillars: promoting the art and science of dentistry, encouraging the improvement of public
oral health, and representing the interests of its member dentists and the public they serve. To achieve these goals, HADS engages in various activities, including offering continuing education (CE) courses to help members meet their professional development requirements and stay abreast of the latest advancements in dental techniques and technology. These courses often feature renowned speakers and cover a wide range of dental topics.
Membership benefits for HADS dentists are extensive, encompassing networking opportunities with peers, legislative representation at local and state levels to advocate for the profession, access to exclusive discounts on dental products and services from various vendors, and valuable resources for practice management. HADS also facilitates patient mediation reviews to help resolve conflicts between dentists and patients, and provides automatic listing in "Find a Dentist" public service directories on both HADS and Pennsylvania Dental Association websites, increasing member visibility.
Community involvement is a significant aspect of HADS's work. The society is dedicated to improving the dental health of underserved populations in the Harrisburg area through education, financial support, and direct treatment delivery. They participate in and support initiatives like MOM-N-PA (Mission of Mercy in Pennsylvania), Bethesda Mission, Harrisburg Smiles, and HACC sealant programs, demonstrating their commitment to keeping the community smiling.
The leadership of HADS consists of executive officers such as the President, President-Elect, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer, along with a CE Director and Immediate Past President. These leaders, who are practicing dentists themselves, guide the society's strategic direction and oversee its operations, ensuring it continues to serve its members and the community effectively.
