William Winspear

Sharing

Earlier this year, I was a participant in a panel discussion that comprised colleagues from the United States, Great Britain, Canada, and New Zealand. The panel was charged with addressing the topic, An International Perspective: Can We Learn From the Experience of Others? This presentation was a keynote session of the scientific program of the 2007 Australian Dental Congress and Exhibition held in Sydney, Australia. This fascinating presentation was organized by the Australian Dental Association, a professional organization that impressively represents more than 90% of the practicing dentists in Australia.

The purpose of this forum was to both highlight the various issues that are germane in the provision of oral health care throughout the world and also to obtain an ''international grasp'' of the planning, strategies, and campaigns that are being used in engaging them. A raft of matters was examined ranging from mandatory continuing education and vocational training to collegiate loyalty and volunteerism.

The merits of sharing information and practical knowledge at local, national, and international levels are obvious and, indeed, paramount in the formation of policies; the stores of intelligence held by peer organizations are always valued background resources in the initial researching process. Our own Academy is a fine example of providing a global network of expertise that has been brought together in the name of Pierre Fauchard.

The sharing of individual experiences gained over prolonged periods also holds great importance for the profession, especially in the development of its younger members. How often have we met new or recent graduates who impressed us with their eagerness and ambitions, but who slip between the cracks as they continue in their careers? They lose the spirit of belonging, and dentistry loses future leaders and influential advocates.

Repeatedly the question arises within the Academy as to the suitable age of entry for Fellows and the achievement credentials that are required. Whilst it is clear that fellowship is bestowed on those who have demonstrated outstanding qualities of leadership in the diversity of the profession and in their communities and have been graduated for more than 5 years, I contend, however, that there are dentists regarded as being ''too young and inexperienced'' who would greatly benefit from being part of the Academy. Their potential and aptitude in assuming responsibility (frequently evidenced during their undergraduate days or military service) would be enhanced by their having opportunities for being part of the Academy and forging bonds with its Fellows.

The Academy can wait too long to approach these talented dentists and thus lose the obvious advantages of being the first honour organization to invite them to join and of establishing their strong and ongoing commitments to it. Their enthusiasm, blended with the enlightenment of our worldwide fellowship, would secure a robust future for the Academy.

There is little doubt that sharing--be it through communication, participation, or simply through the dispersal of information-- is a powerful and cost-effective means in shaping the progressive prosperity of international dentistry.