Australasian Dentist Magazine March April 2021

Category 112 Australasian Dentist The power of networks columnists By Alexzandra Barilla T raditionally, networks have been undervalued; the power of networks is not something to brush off. It can aid you in growing your practice, generating ideas, connecting with peers and much more. The Independent Dentist Network (IDN) is a network of like- minded, completely independent dentists who value keeping their practices strong and independent throughout the emergence of health funds and corporate practices in Dentistry within Australia. Through the power of its network the Independent Dentist Network has come together to build a fortified brand with a strong resilience against the health funds and corporates. How can the Independent Dentist Network help you? Find the answers below. Find your peers The nature of dentistry, especially if you work in a single dentist practice, can be a lonely thing. When you join a network, it allows you to interact with others, like yourself, you can find common interests, bounce ideas off of each other, get tips on how they work compared to how you work; the opportunities are endless. With the Independent Dentist Network, we promote conversation between our members. We run a confidential chat line based on support, constructive and helpful input. We also include updates about the state of dentistry in Australia, how we see things moving forward with private practices or if things start to favour health funds and corporates; all the information is there for our members to start and contribute to a conversation. The power of numbers When you join a network, in particular the IDN, you join a network that only grows stronger by numbers. An IDN member’s biggest concern is the rapid growth of health fund and corporate practices within dentistry. These big companies have large marketing and advertising budgets to generate business, which is something that an independent practice will not be able to compete against with on their own. As members continually sign up to be a part of the IDN so too does the public become aware that there is another option out there for them instead of the large health fund practices. This marketing power actively educates the public on the value and difference of IDN practices. The Independent Dentist Network works with its members to ensure their practice does not get left behind compared to those who can market on a much larger scale. Using the power of numbers, the IDN members are helping to build a unified brand ready to market nation-wide. Network perks What is a good network without the extra perks; with the IDN you will have a national marketing campaign at your fingertips for no extra cost. There is also a variety of services, whether that be in business, marketing, IT and repair, or training and staff services. All of these are readily available to members in order to help grow and run their practices successfully. There has never been a better time to join a network. In fact, there has never been a better time to join our IDN network that will significantly benefit your private practice. u If you would like to know more about the Independent Dentist Network, email headoffice@independentdentist.com.au or head to our website at www.independentdentist.com.au Alexzandra Barilla