Often, patients don’t put a lot of thought into the actual operation of their dentist’s office. They expect to see somebody at the front desk – whether an office manager or someone you also see helping chairside – as well as, that person who assists the dentist. And, of course, the dentist! Sometimes you might see a hygienist…someone who’s not the dentist, but does procedures separate from those performed by the dental assistants. But, this particular member of the team, may not always be around the office, or could not even be a part of the practice clinical staff. Wonder why? This is a major decision many dental practice owners usually face…Either/Or: The Dentist Hygienist Crossroad!
These days, it feels like you see emails, billboards, commercials, social media ads, radio spots – and ANYWHERE else – from legal firms spreading the word about their class-action lawsuit against somebody! It’s no surprise that their goal is to find as many individuals (or victims) who may qualify for the designated “class” to be represented…That said, some of these class-action suits have more “specialized” classes and do not get the same media saturation or widespread public appeal. Yet, the possible damages and impacts can be equally devastating. Many dentists we know fall into that category, and may be totally unaware they could be included in TWO different “dental-specific” class-action lawsuits are gathering steam!
We often hear the phrase, “Don’t sweat the small stuff” as a means to give perspective on life. And, in many instances this can be sage advice. After all, we can focus SO heavily on the daily minutia of life we completely lose sight of the “big picture” – whether in our careers, personal life or relationships. Those “nit-picky” little things threaten to overwhelm us or cause us to just give up completely! Which brings us back to our original adage…with one, HUGE, caveat!
How many times have you walked into a professional’s office and casually glanced at all of the diplomas and certificates and “notices” on the walls? Have you ever really LOOKED at them, actually EXAMINED them, read them in their ENTIREITY? Yeah…not many of us do. They’re sort of like scrolling through all that legalese when you install an app or software. Honestly, just seeing “documentation” on the walls is usually enough for most people. We simply assume our doctor or lawyer or dentist is “legit” and knows what they’re doing. But…what if they’re NOT?!? How would you even KNOW?!?
Summer offers an almost-unlimited number of picture-perfect photo opportunities. Heck we even have TWO specialty days this month devoted exclusively to capturing those special moments – first, we had #NationalSelfieDay, then finish up June with #WorldCameraDay! And considering most people now walk around with high-tech digital cameras in their pockets, snapping those Insta-worthy shots is quick and easy….and has become an automatic action for so many people. Yet, that simple action – over in a few seconds – for medical professionals can open a can of worms it may take YEARS to clean up! READ MORE…
This weekend not only marks a rather austere remembrance of the military sacrifices for Memorial Day, but on the polar opposite hand it also heralds the “unofficial” beginning of the summer season. The school days dwindle down to a precious few for those still in session, and endless days of summer camps, vacation plans, family gatherings, adventures with friends and magical twilights, stretch before us. BUT…while students may be out of school, it could be time for YOU to think about going “back-to-school!” Say WHAT?!? No, we’re not looking THAT far down the proverbial road, but instead thinking about protecting your credentials!
A while back we mentioned our intention to periodically address some common dental “Frequently Asked Questions” (FAQs)…or, for most patients, frequently UNASKED questions due to a hesitancy to actually speak-up while in the dental chair. Let’s face it, all of that technical terminology ensconced in an equipment-filled room and supervised by folks in lab coats and PPE, can be downright intimidating! So in our second installment, we’re answering one of THE most-frequent queries from parents, grandparents, and anyone else with a young child.
Sadly, one of the major casualties of the pandemic lockdown, was small business…ESPECIALLY privately-owned dental offices. Even some of the “corporate” practices took a BIG hit, and many still feel the crunch. Between worker shortages, patient reluctance to return to ANY medical setting, economic hardships and downturns, not to mention a steep decrease in retail environment traffic, everybody is taking a hit. BUT…the ones who are NOW paying the price, are patients, thanks a a SEVERE shortage of dentists for Medicaid-eligible patients in Texas! READ MORE…
If you have ever planned an event, traveled with a tour package or eaten at an upscale – possibly abroad – restaurant, you’ve encountered the inevitable “prix fixe” or “a la carte” menu options. The first, a fixed-price selection which includes several choices within each course, is all available within the set cost. However, if you want to deviate from those pre-determined menu items, you’re squarely into a la carte territory…with the accompanying, variable, price tag. Have you ever wondered why…and did you know this happens throughout a variety of businesses, professions and industries?!?
Opening any sort of healthcare or medical office involves a major financial investment, between the specialized (and expensive) equipment required for your practice and the infrastructure to support the aforementioned equipment, trained personnel, and administrative operations, it can add up quickly. And that doesn’t even include the actual aesthetics of your office – mundane (yet, important to convey a professional impression) things like chairs, artwork, amenities and décor. We’re talking a SERIOUS chunk of change…but, if you’re forgetting something that’s very inexpensive it can cost you even MORE money!
