The American Association of Orthodontists would like to work with the Obama Administration and Congress to pass small business-friendly initiatives announced in the 2010 State of the Union Address.
Orthodontists are on the front lines of the economy as both small-business employers and health care providers. Since the majority of orthodontic coverage is not covered by insurance, patients who need orthodontic care to correct improper alignment of teeth and jaws are forgoing treatment and potentially causing more expensive problems in the future. Tax cuts that help orthodontists hire new assistants and purchase new technology enable them to continue to deliver high-quality care to patients at the lowest possible cost. Such tax cuts would thus allow orthodontists to contribute to economic growth in their communities, offering quality jobs for skilled workers.
“President Obama’s proposal to create tax incentives for small businesses to hire new workers and raise wages, and to purchase new equipment is vitally important to orthodontists,” said Dr. Robert J. Bray, president of the AAO.
The week of January 18, 2010, members of the AAO met with Rep. Nydia Velázquez (D-NY), chair of the House Small Business Committee, to discuss similar proposals offered by her and others in Congress, including Sen. Mary Landrieu, chair of the Senate Small Business Committee. During the meeting, the AAO expressed its willingness to help pass bills that would encourage small businesses to grow.
Dr. Bray said that the AAO will support bills that encourage small business growth, since these businesses are the engines of U.S. economic growth. The AAO is working closely with the House and Senate Small Business committees, offering input on the intersection of small business, healthcare reform and job creation.
“We believe the focus in Congress should be on a jobs bill that helps small businesses get back on their feet and start hiring,” said Dr. Bray.
For more information: Kevin Dillard, 314-993-1700, ext. 525 kdillard@aaortho.org