ANGELA D’ORSI
Practice Manager, Aveni Dental Professionals, Plymouth, MA
As a long–term practice manager, I have seen my fair share of change in the dental industry. I have worked with Dr. Steven Aveni for over 17 years managing Aveni Dental Professionals in Plymouth, MA. Up until our affiliation with 42 North Dental, Dr. Aveni was the sole dentist in the practice and often had to refer patients out to specialty providers for treatment such as molar root canals, periodontal surgery and dental implants. Patients sometimes found it difficult to travel far distances for specialists and we found it difficult to coordinate appointment times and schedules between the patient, Dr. Aveni, and the specialist in order to get optimum care and treatment results for the patient.
AN AFFILIATION FOR THE BETTER
That all changed when we affiliated with 42 North Dental three years ago. Among many other areas of improvement, we were able to work with the recruiting team at 42 North Dental to add a periodontist to the practice. The recruiting team handled the job posting and screening, then sent qualified candidates right to the practice to interview. This saved us so much time and allowed us to continue to focus on patients while 42 North Dental handled the rest. Many existing patients were excited to have a periodontist onboard. Now they could receive necessary treatment in a trusted environment and better coordinate care. For new patients, it means we’re able to provide more services and in turn, keep them within the practice.
THE BENEFITS FOR PATIENTS & PROVIDERS
A specific example that comes to mind is a patient who came in for their hygiene appointment. It was noted that they had periodontal disease, severe bleeding and pocketing. While in the chair, the patient complained of a toothache. After the exam, Dr. Aveni and the periodontist were able to consult in real time on the best treatment which was an extraction with ridge preservation. Because of our in-house specialist, the patient was able to receive care that very day. No need for a referral or to put off care. The patient was thrilled and we were thrilled we could provide care quickly and efficiently.
PROVIDING MORE SERVICES IN-HOUSE
From a business standpoint it makes sense to expand our services and generate revenue in–house rather than referring out to a specialist. Ultimately it provides more convenience and better care for our patients. We’re looking forward to bringing in more specialists like many other 42 North Dental affiliated practices. Our shared vision with 42 North Dental of providing healthy, confident smiles for life and adding in services that make it easier for patients to receive care brings that vision to fruition.
THE UNEXPECTED BENEFIT
An unexpected benefit of bringing in a specialist is the sharing of knowledge between the two providers. Each has their own strengths yet they learn from one another and have developed into a great team. Dr. Aveni has taken on a mentor-like role with our periodontist and has been able to share his vast experience and expertise. The doctors share a special bond of respect and care for one another both personally and professionally. It brings joy to our staff and translates into an atmosphere that is contagious for all. It’s a great feeling and couldn’t have been done without our partnership with 42 North Dental!
