Dear RDH,
Thank you Tracy Corson for your editorial, "Hygienists Must Unite To Collect Proper Benefits and Compensation" (September 1995). I have been a full-time practicing dental hygienist for 35 years. Because of the "part-time" philosophy of the dental profession - no work, no pay, and part time under 1,000 hours a year - I have no retirement package, no insurance package, no sick leave, vacation time, etc.
I will be continuing to work till I drop at the chair. Teachers, nurses, and other professions enjoy these luxuries(?) and can look forward to a retirement income.
I have been questioning our professional powers-that-be for years on this subject. I am glad to see others are interested and as frustrated as I am!
Barbara Sommer, RDH
Los Angeles, California
