{"version":1,"type":"rich","provider_name":"Libsyn","provider_url":"https:\/\/www.libsyn.com","height":90,"width":600,"title":"531 When Advocacy Doesn\u2019t Win: How to Respond When Legislation Goes the Other Way ","description":"In this episode of A Tale of Two Hygienists, co-hosts David Torres and Jessica Atkinson sit down with Joffree Bunleang to unpack one of the most challenging realities in professional advocacy\u2014what happens when legislation doesn\u2019t go the way you hoped? &amp;nbsp; The conversation centers around Oral Preventive Assistants (OPAs) and the evolving landscape of dental practice. Joffree brings clarity to what OPAs are, why they\u2019re being introduced in various regions, and how their presence impacts dental hygienists and the broader dental team. &amp;nbsp; Key topics discussed include: &amp;nbsp; Understanding OPAs and their intended role within dental practices &amp;nbsp; The surprising truth about the hygienist perspective on change and professional identity &amp;nbsp; The real impact OPAs may have on workflow, patient care, and team dynamics &amp;nbsp; Practical ways hygienists can work with OPAs in everyday clinical settings &amp;nbsp; How to respond constructively when advocacy efforts don\u2019t achieve the desired outcome &amp;nbsp; Rather than framing OPAs as a threat, this episode challenges listeners to consider how collaboration, leadership, and proactive engagement can strengthen the profession. Joffree offers thoughtful insight into how hygienists can continue advocating for themselves while also building effective working relationships with Oral Preventive Assistants. &amp;nbsp; This episode is a must-listen for hygienists navigating legislative changes and seeking productive ways to move forward\u2014together. &amp;nbsp; Call to Action Empower yourself as a dental hygienist. Advocate for your profession, stay informed about legislative developments, and focus on collaboration. Learn how to work alongside Oral Preventive Assistants in ways that support patient care, professional growth, and team success. &amp;nbsp; Resources: &amp;nbsp; Email: joffree.bunleang@hygieneelevated.com &amp;nbsp; LinkedIn: https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/joffreebunleang\/ &amp;nbsp; \u201cWhat if OPAs became the strength we didn\u2019t see coming?\u201d  https:\/\/www.rdhmag.com\/career-profession\/article\/55344645\/what-if-opas-became-the-strength-we-didnt-see-coming ","author_name":"A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast","author_url":"http:\/\/www.ataleoftwohygienists.com","html":"<iframe title=\"Libsyn Player\" style=\"border: none\" src=\"\/\/html5-player.libsyn.com\/embed\/episode\/id\/40617725\/height\/90\/theme\/custom\/thumbnail\/yes\/direction\/forward\/render-playlist\/no\/custom-color\/423aa9\/\" height=\"90\" width=\"600\" scrolling=\"no\"  allowfullscreen webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen oallowfullscreen msallowfullscreen><\/iframe>","thumbnail_url":"https:\/\/assets.libsyn.com\/secure\/content\/200105765"}