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RevUp Dental
RevUp Dental
Is your dental practice stuck growing? It's not your dental skills holding you back, it's what's happening under the hood. RevUp shows you where you're losing patients and fixes it with proven systems, training and marketing that makes you money.
Blog By:
Nick Fotache
Nick Fotache

Should You be Worried about DSOs?

Should You be Worried about DSOs?

2/26/2024 2:40:30 AM   |   Comments: 0   |   Views: 50



Not too long ago, most dental offices were owned by individual dentists or small groups. They were like the local shops of the dental world. But now, we're seeing more and more dental offices becoming part of big companies. In the U.S., about half of all dental practices are now corporate-owned. That's a huge jump from just 10% a decade ago. Canada's seeing this change too, just a bit slower. 

So, why are big companies suddenly so interested in dentistry? Well, for starters, they're pretty good at making things run smoothly and keeping customers happy. This shift makes some dentists worry. They wonder if there's still room for the "little guy" – the traditional, family-owned dental office.  

Can Small Dental Offices Still Win?

The good news is that yes, smaller, privately owned dental offices can still thrive. The secret? It's all about how you treat your patients and how much you're a part of your local community. People like feeling special and taken care of, which is something smaller offices can do really well. But, and it's a big but, they have to actually work at it. Being small doesn't automatically mean you're giving better care or service. 

Here's how smaller dental offices can keep up with the big players: 

1. Make Your Patients Feel Like VIPs

The personal connection you establish with your patients is your ace in the hole. This goes beyond just being friendly; it's about creating an experience so positive that patients can't help but share it with others. Here’s how:

- Personalized Communication: Use their name, remember their preferences, and follow up on personal details they've shared with you in past visits. It shows you see them as more than just another appointment on the schedule.

- Follow-up Care: Reach out after procedures to check on their recovery. A simple message or call can make patients feel valued and reassured.

- Environment and Comfort: Make your office a place patients don’t dread visiting. Comfortable seating, a pleasant reception area, and a warm, welcoming staff can make all the difference.

2. Be a Big Part of Your Community

Integrating your practice into the fabric of your community sets you apart from faceless corporate entities. Here's how you can deepen your community ties:

- Community Service: Participate in or sponsor local events, offer free dental check-ups for underprivileged community members, or host educational sessions at schools. It shows you care about more than just business.

- Local Partnerships: Collaborate with other local businesses for cross-promotion or community wellness initiatives. It’s a great way to increase visibility and strengthen community bonds.

- Social Media Engagement: Use social media not just to advertise but to engage with your community. Share tips, celebrate local stories, and highlight your involvement in community events.

3. Build a Great Team

The quality of your team can make or break your practice. A motivated, patient-focused team is crucial for delivering exceptional care.

- Hire for Fit: Skills are important, but attitude is key. Look for team members who share your practice's values and have a genuine passion for patient care.

- Continuous Training: Invest in your team's professional development. Regular training on the latest dental techniques and customer service best practices ensures they're always at their best.

- Foster a Positive Workplace: A happy team leads to happy patients. Create an environment where your staff feels valued, supported, and part of something meaningful.

4. Keep Learning and Improving

The dental field is constantly advancing, and staying current is essential.

- Stay Updated with Technology: New tools and technologies can improve patient care and operational efficiency. Keeping your practice up-to-date can enhance patient outcomes and experiences.

- Solicit Feedback: Encourage feedback from your patients and team. It can provide valuable insights into areas for improvement and help tailor the patient experience.

- Professional Development: Attend conferences, workshops, and seminars. They're great opportunities to learn about emerging trends and network with other professionals. 

Conclusion
For smaller, privately-owned dental practices, the rise of corporate dentistry presents challenges but also opportunities. By focusing on creating exceptional patient experiences, building strong community ties, developing a stellar team, and committing to continuous improvement, these practices can distinguish themselves in a crowded market. The personal touch, the community involvement, the passionate team, and the dedication to excellence are things no corporation can replicate exactly. These are your strengths. Lean into them, and your practice can not only compete but excel in today’s evolving dental landscape.

 

Category: Practice Management, HR and Accounting
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