Abstract
This column addresses the legal risks for Michigan dentists entering "shareholder in name only" agreements with non-dentist entities. Michigan law requires dental practices to be owned by licensed dentists to ensure professional control over public healthcare. Arrangements where management companies or manufacturers can reclaim stock for a nominal fee effectively strip the dentist of true ownership. This lack of control can lead to ethical conflicts, such as pressure to sell specific appliances regardless of professional judgment. Engaging in such schemes may endanger a dentist's license by thwarting state laws intended to protect clinical independence.
Recommended Citation
Schulte, Daniel JD
(2026)
"Is Being a Shareholder ‘In Name Only’ a Problem?,"
The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association: Vol. 108:
No.
1, Article 8.
Available at:
https://commons.ada.org/journalmichigandentalassociation/vol108/iss1/8
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