by Kristine Hodsdon, RDH
Over the years, RDH magazine has asked its readers questions about compensation. Recently, we included our online communication avenues to expand the salary questions and allow you to participate more easily. By analyzing your responses, we were able to summarize the results, which we hope will provide the foundation for a solid dialogue on salaries and future articles about what you want to be more satisfied hygienists.
We received an overwhelming response from the online survey, and with the help of RDH eVillage, we decided to provide new questions each month. (click on the button for it at the top of this newsletter's home page, at the bottom of the list that starts with "subscribe"). The questions are based on the open responses you provide. Each month, I would ask you to take just a few minutes to answer the salary questions so that we can provide you with the responses.
It was clear last month that many veteran dental hygienists are challenged by the equal pay that new graduates receive. Many of our respondents felt that hygienists who have been working in clinical practice for many years should make more than new dental hygiene graduates.
One hygienist responded, "After more than 28 years of practicing hygiene, I do not think I make much more than an entry-level hygienist. My years of experience should be worth more." Another hygienist wrote, "I think that employers should also take education into consideration when determining salary, not just experience."
Therefore, my question to readers is this:
Do you want more information about the disparity or non-disparity between entry-level hygienists and seasoned hygienists? On the other hand, would you continue to answer a few questions about advanced degrees?
This month's expanded survey will cover seasoned vs. entry level. The January questions will cover salary and advanced degrees.
As always, I welcome you comments and feedback and appreciate this opportunity to provide you with e-news you can use about your profession.
Kristine A. Hodsdon, RDH, BS
[email protected]
