#PDS Health #Dental Assistants #Dr. Carolyn Ghazal

Celebrating Dental Assistants Recognition Week at PDS Health

PDS Health®, a prominent organization in integrated healthcare support, is taking the time to honor the incredible contributions of dental assistants nationwide. From March 1 through 7, this recognition aligns with the American Dental Assistants Association (ADAA) initiative, marking a week dedicated to appreciating these essential healthcare professionals.

A Commitment to Excellence

This year, PDS Health is emphasizing its ongoing investment in the nearly 6,500 dental assistants within its organization. These professionals play a crucial role in the efficient operation of dental practices, ensuring top-quality patient care while supporting clinical staff. Their skills are comparable to those found in other allied health roles, highlighting the significance of their contribution to the overall health care sector.

Stephen E. Thorne IV, the founder and CEO of PDS Health, remarked, “Dental Assistants Recognition Week is an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the extraordinary professionals enabling exceptional patient care day in and day out.” He acknowledged the importance of expanding opportunities and professional growth within the field, indicating PDS Health's commitment to supporting the career development of dental assistants through various programs.

Programs Supporting Growth

The organization’s initiatives, such as the Dr. Carolyn Ghazal Dental Assistant Scholarship program, showcase PDS Health's dedication to fostering future talent in dental assisting. This program recently celebrated a decade of existence, having invested over $2 million to support the education of future dental assistants through mentorship, tuition assistance, and practical training.

Moreover, PDS Health continues to provide its dental assistants with valuable resources including:

• - PDS Health University™: This program offers ongoing professional development opportunities, ensuring that dental assistants stay current with clinical knowledge. In 2025 alone, participants completed over 42,000 hours of continuing education.
• - Lead Dental Assistant Development Program: Designed for those looking to pursue leadership roles, this program is set to expand its reach, providing even more dental assistants with access to mentorship and management training, helping them to lead effectively.
• - College Advancement Program: Aiming to support education, this initiative covers tuition costs for eligible team members pursuing undergraduate degrees, empowering dental assistants to advance their careers while continuing their work in healthcare.

Celebrating Contributions

During Dental Assistants Recognition Week, PDS Health seeks to promote awareness about the vital roles dental assistants play in enhancing patient experiences. Rosalinda Olague, Director of Dental Assistant Programs and School Relations at PDS Health, stated, “Our dental assistants set the tone for every patient experience, and it’s important we recognize their contributions to clinical excellence and teamwork.