CATEGORY 88 AUSTRALASIAN DENTIST ACQUISITIONS dentistry, including dental implants and orthodontics, establishing Gladstone Park Dental as a one-stop destination for diverse dental needs. “I suppose the only thing we don’t offer are fixed braces, but everything else we do offer,” he adds. “The plan for me is to expand to get another room in here. I’m thinking of getting a part-time orthodontist to provide that work. So, there’s scope.” As with any major reform, Dr Krstic’s initiative inadvertently caused the departure of some staff members who were accustomed to the slower pace of work. As the practice began to grow on the back of a streamlined workflow, the new team members who joined the practice shared the new principal’s vision and goals. “From a patient point of view, things started to improve quite rapidly. Previously, a lot of our patients were being referred outside for a lot of the treatments,” Dr Krstic enthuses. “With the expansion of our treatment services, we were able to retain many of them. In fact, these patients have since been consistently referring their friends and family to our practice, which is now a “onestop-shop” and is therefore very convenient for patients. The former practice would have struggled to retain or attract any of these patients.” Online space for improvement As the prior business model had no exposure to social media, the revamping exercise was equally intensive in the online space. Together with his newly assembled team, Dr Krstic diligently worked on raising the practice’s digital marketing profile, introducing online patient bookings to accommodate those who prefer digital interactions over traditional calls or visits. The establishment of a communication portal for after-hours interactions was also initiated. These efforts aligned with the practice’s goal of becoming a preferred provider for additional health funds, allowing for the introduction of treatments that better met patient expectations and budgets. “The previous practice did not offer any payment plans, which is a significant factor,” the forward-thinking dentist avers. “When faced with a financial commitment, patients often inquire about payment plans. In the current landscape, not providing services like Afterpay, ZipPay, and similar options implies telling people, “Sorry, you need to have the full amount upfront”, which to me is not the most customer-friendly approach.” Outperforming expectations with a great team As Dr Krstic reflects on the results of the modernization efforts, the clinic has not only recovered from below average performance but surpassed expectations. Patient numbers have surged, and the once under-utilized surgery space is now consistently busy. Remarkably, the practice went from being one of the least profitable practices in Ekera Dental to becoming one of its best performers last year. Crediting the success to excellent teamwork, he clarifies that “the team” includes not just the dentists and staff. It also encompasses the excellent crew at Ekera Dental, that provide all the critical funds and support. “First and foremost, Ekera Dental has been a highly successful corporation, consistently expanding and acquiring more practices. Their success is evident,” Dr Krstic states. “Secondly, they offer valuable support without excessive interference. As the practice principal, I have the autonomy to make decisions, knowing that I have their backing.” As well as administrative and logistical aspects, Ekera’s support extends to issues like staff contracts and regulations. “If there’s a staffing shortage, I can easily contact another practice within the Ekera network,” he adds. “We share resources, helping each other when needed. For instance, if I require a nurse for the day, a simple call to another practice usually resolves the situation. I’ve personally contributed by working part-time in other Ekera practices to offer support during challenging periods. “This collaborative and supportive teamwork reflects the cohesive nature of being part of the Ekera network.” Adapt and change with the times If nothing else, the story of Gladstone Park Dental shows that growth, efficiency, and profits are not at all guaranteed. It took a clear-eyed assessment of where things were and mobilizing top-down change to turn things around; adjusting course to swim with, and not against, the tide of modernity. To Dr Krstic, modernization isn’t just about appearances, although that appears the unspoken nomenclature when people talk about it. “Practice modernization must be viewed in an all-encompassing way,” he stresses, “including everything from case acceptance rates to digital adoption; from enhancing the patient experience to attracting top-tier talent. “By prioritizing modernization, dental practice owners pave the way for better treatment, increased investment, and higher retention of both staff and patients. “I’m proud to say that Gladstone Park Dental has achieved all three by establishing a great team to realize a sound vision.” u Register here PROF NEIL MEREDITH LECTURES at BYRON BAY Neoss 4+ Full Arch guided implant solutions LOCATION BYRON BAY, NSW @ ELEMENTS OF BYRON Neoss 4+ Full arch guided implant solutions. This program enables the clinician to develop a complete patient pathway for full arch patient implant treatment. Workflow planning, gathering data, photographs, eo and io scans, radiographs at key stages. Case preparation, guided treatment plan and solution, correct guide and provisional design and production. Immediate or delayed, placement and provisionalisation. Final restoration; design and materials. Maintenance and complications. Working with your laboratory - Teamwork the key to success - How intelligent simplicity can optimise success and excellence. A hands on workshop takes the delegate through simulated case treatment, planning, placement, and provisionalisation.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTc3NDk3Mw==