by Dr. Kami Marr, President, The Dentists Professional Liability TRUST of Colorado
As I step into the role of The Trust Board President, I am reminded of just how meaningful this organization has become to me personally and professionally. Since joining the Board in 2017, serving alongside such thoughtful and dedicated colleagues has been one of the most rewarding parts of my dental career.
In dentistry, we spend our days building relationships, earning trust, and navigating the unexpected, and we always have our plan B in the back of our minds. We know that even with the best intentions, excellent clinical skills, and careful planning, challenges can arise. And when they do, having someone in your corner who understands what it’s like to sit in the dentist’s chair—not as a patient, but as the provider—can make all the difference.
That’s what makes the Dentists Professional Liability Trust of Colorado so special. Our motto, “It’s Personal,” isn’t just a catchy phrase. It’s the foundation of who we are and how we serve our members. The difference is a conversation.
One of the greatest benefits of the Trust is the ability to pick up the phone and speak directly with a local, licensed Colorado dentist. Someone who understands the realities of practicing dentistry and the concerns that can keep us awake at night.
Sometimes, that conversation is all it takes to provide reassurance, perspective, or guidance. Other times, early support can help manage a difficult situation before it escalates into a formal complaint or malpractice claim.
The Trust is also different because of how it is structured. We are a member-owned, not-for-profit organization. Our priorities are aligned with the dentists we protect. Rather than focusing on shareholders, we focus on providing meaningful coverage, stabilizing premiums, and returning value to our members.
Equally important, the Trust is led by our peers—Colorado dentists who understand firsthand the challenges and rewards of practicing in our state. Our Board is comprised of diverse clinical backgrounds and perspectives to help ensure that the Trust remains relevant and prepared for the evolving needs of our profession.
At our recent Board Retreat in Colorado Springs, I discussed with our group about the important aspects of this very special organization and the pearls of wisdom that come with this responsibility and experience. We don’t solve every issue at a single board meeting, but we do keep asking the right questions, listening to our members, and making thoughtful decisions that will strengthen the Trust for years to come.
When the unexpected happens, and it will, insurance is important. But knowing who’s on the other end of the phone when your Plan B didn’t work as you had planned? That’s personal and makes all the difference.
“I’ve been with Dental Trust since completing my residency, and I can wholeheartedly attest to their exceptional professionalism and commitment. Their open communication always makes me feel valued and understood, with my best interests consistently prioritized. Dental Trust has stood by me, providing unparalleled support, and ensuring I’m well taken care of. I’m grateful to be part of the Dental Trust family and highly recommend them to any dental professional seeking trustworthy coverage.”
“I had insurance coverage with the AAO for over 20 years and switched to the Trust seven years ago. The AAO was fine, but I never had anyone to reach out to, when I had questions or concerns about patients. Having a personal connection with my local peers, like Dr. Delapp and Dr Geck at the Trust, has made it easy to discuss those difficult circumstances which we all have. Honestly, I would rather have my insurance contact being in Denver, vs calling a 1-800 number, probably one of the best moves I’ve made to protect my practice.”
“I have been practicing dentistry in the state of Colorado since 2007. It is an absolute privilege to work with The Trust. I am proud to be part of a member owned, non-profit organization where I am represented and supported by my peers. The Trust has given me advice in many aspects of private practice. This organization uses dentists to examine claims, and the best legal teams to guide you. They are professional and understand what the stresses and challenges are of being a dental professional. There are times in our careers where we are working long days or late night and we need advice. The Trust will be there for you 100%. I support The Trust as much as they support me. I would not want to practice without them.”
“It’s so nice to have a support system such as the Trust to help navigate through a situation. I greatly appreciate what you do to support dentists like myself throughout the entire state. Thank you, Thank you!"
"I have been working with the Trust for a total of 5 years. They have made it very easy to reach out for advice and are always protecting the dentist. They are a valuable resource and are consistently professional. The rates are very reasonable but more importantly, the resources and support you are getting by becoming a Member of the Trust is invaluable."
"Here’s my experience with The Dentists Professional Liability Trust as one of its defense attorneys: it exclusively uses seasoned dentists as claim professionals, so they know the dentistry, provide excellent assistance to legal counsel, and understand the emotional toll of having a patient sue, even though you’ve done your best. The Trust provides sound, honest advice to avoid or resolve conflicts; it arranges immediate legal help for insureds if complaints are made to the Colorado Dental Board; and if litigation is unavoidable, it lends thoughtful, steady support. It is a superior insurer."
"I brag to my friends in other states about the tremendous advantage Colorado dentists have with the Trust. I have more confidence knowing that a group of dentists are supporting me and looking out for my best interests and my practice. I'm assured knowing that I can call them anytime, with any question, and I'm able to talk to an actual practicing dentist. I feel like the Trust cares for me and my practice."
“The Trust is one of our state's most unique and beneficial resources for Colorado dentists and dental specialists. It offers exceptional value and excellent representation coupled with a very professional and knowledgeable staff who are always willing to offer advice and resources to ensure optimal risk management for our practices.”
“I have participated in The Trust since their establishment in 1987, and value their competent, professional staff, their reasonable rates, and their sound business practices. They have built a wonderful reputation for serving and protecting Colorado dentists! Their coverage cannot be beat!”
“I would be happy to share with my colleagues that my participation in the Trust over the past 25 years has been a consistent source of security, comfort, predictability and stability for my dental practice. I rest a little easier knowing that the folks at the Trust have engineered a liability safety net that provides excellent protection for my practice and family assets. I cannot imagine practicing without this critical coverage.”