Laura Jacob RDH, MA is a Colorado native. She graduated from the University of Colorado, School of Dentistry with a bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene. She went on to complete her master’s degree in Applied Communication along with a Certificate in Alternative Dispute Resolution at the University of Denver. Laura received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the University of Denver, University College in 2016. She has practiced clinically for 36 years and taught at both the University of Colorado (CU) and Community College of Denver (CCD) Dental Hygiene programs in Denver. Her favorite course subject was Ethics. Laura served on the Colorado Board of Dental Examiners from 1999 to 2009. Her esteemed role on the board was Liaison to the Peer Assistance Services and their stakeholders. She currently supports the Board as a Practice Monitor and Board Consultant. She continues to serve on the Colorado Dental Well Being Committee. By way of the Dental Board, she has been deeply involved with the Central Regional Dental Testing Service (CRDTS), examining and coordinating national clinical examinations, participating on most committees, and eventually serving as Executive Director. Laura has always been active in her professional association, and has served as president of both the Metropolitan Denver Dental Hygienists’ Society (MDDHS) and the Colorado Dental Hygienists’ Association (CODHA). Laura was recruited by DentaQuest, to work with the Colorado dental providers during their administrative launch in 2014 of the Colorado Medicaid Dental Program, currently entitled the Health First Colorado Dental Program. Laura is a strong advocate for the Cavity Free at Three program and has been a Master Trainer since 2012. She further supports the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE), Oral Health Unit by conducting Basic Screenings in Schools (BSS). Laura is a regular volunteer with the Colorado Mission of Mercy (COMOM) and Dentistry from the Heart events. For two years she held a contract with a national Dental Support Organization (DSO) as their Compliance Director. Current clients include the Colorado Dental Board, Colorado Mountain College, Dental Compliance Specialists and ProEdge Dental. Laura is an advocate and active member of ADHA, OSAP, HCCA and MSDA. She recently earned the OSAP-DALE Foundation Dental Infection Prevention and Control Certificate. Laura currently consults with private dental practices regarding compliance efforts with Medicaid, HIPAA, OSHA and Dental Boards, along with career coaching and team building. Laura has enjoyed an amazing career and continues her passion for compliance, education and improving oral health for all!
