Less Insurance Dependence Podcast: Recent Episodes
Less Insurance Dependence
There is an underlying precept in our country’s healthcare system that medical professionals can only survive through increased participation in insurance programs. The Less Insurance Dependence podcast series exposes that misperception, shedding light on how Dentists can thrive by breaking out of the insurance-controlled business model.
In this episode of the Less Insurance Dependence Podcast, co-host Michael Walker welcomes Dr. Brad Hughes, a dentist and purpose-driven entrepreneur, for an insightful conversation on building practices that thrive without relying on PPOs. Dr. Hughes opens up about the mindset shifts that helped him move from burnout to fulfillment. He highlights the importance of building a brand rooted in authenticity, creating a team-driven patient experience, and gaining clarity around your business vision. Whether you’re taking your first steps toward reducing insurance dependence or refining an established fee-for-service model, this episode offers practical strategies and powerful perspectives to help you lead your practice with clarity, confidence, and purpose.
Book your free marketing strategy meeting with Ekwa at your convenience. Plus, at the end of the session, get a free analysis report to find out where your practice stands online. It's our gift to you! https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/marketing-strategy-meeting/
If you're looking to boost your case acceptance rates and enhance patient communication, you can schedule a Coaching Strategy Meeting with Gary Takacs. With his experience in helping practices thrive, Gary will work with you on personalized coaching, ensuring you and your team are prepared to present treatment plans confidently, offer financing options, and communicate the value of essential dental services. https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/csm/
In this episode of the Less Insurance Dependence Podcast, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah unravel one of the most frustrating and often hidden realities of PPO resignation: umbrella plans. Many dentists think they’ve successfully resigned from a few insurance plans, only to find themselves unknowingly locked into a much larger web of networks. Gary and Naren explain what umbrella plans are, why they exist, how they’re strategically designed to confuse and fatigue dental teams, and what you can do about it.
Book your free marketing strategy meeting with Ekwa at your convenience. Additionally, at the end of the session, get a free analysis report to find out where your practice stands online. It's our gift to you! https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/marketing-strategy-meeting/
If you're looking to boost your case acceptance rates and enhance patient communication, you can schedule a Coaching Strategy Meeting with Gary Takacs. With his experience in helping practices thrive, Gary will work with you on personalized coaching, ensuring you and your team are prepared to present treatment plans confidently, offer financing options, and communicate the value of essential dental services. https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/csm/
Dr. Brett Kessler: From Recovery to a Thriving, Insurance-Free Practice
American Dental Association (ADA) President Dr. Brett Kessler shares how personal transformation led him to build a fee-for-service practice grounded in purpose, vision, and patient trust.
Discover how slowing down, building relationships, and leading with intention can bring more joy and greater success—to your dental career. A must-listen for any dentist ready to move beyond PPOs.
Book your free marketing strategy meeting with Ekwa at your convenience. Plus, at the end of the session, get a free analysis report to find out where your practice stands online. It's our gift to you! https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/marketing-strategy-meeting/
If you're looking to boost your case acceptance rates and enhance patient communication, you can schedule a Coaching Strategy Meeting with Gary Takacs. With his experience in helping practices thrive, Gary will work with you on personalized coaching, ensuring you and your team are prepared to present treatment plans confidently, offer financing options, and communicate the value of essential dental services. https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/csm/
Have you ever wondered how the insurance plans you accept today could make or break the sale of your dental practice someday? In this powerful episode, Michael Walker sits down with Kim McCleskey and Kyle Francis from Professional Transition Strategies to uncover how your current insurance participation, especially with PPO plans, can dramatically affect the value and marketability of your dental practice. Kim and Kyle share real-world stories, actionable advice, and clear steps for dentists who are planning a future transition or simply want to strengthen their financial foundation. They discuss common misconceptions about reimbursement rates, the role of insurance in buyer interest, and how to begin making smart, strategic changes.
Book your free marketing strategy meeting with Ekwa at your convenience. Plus, at the end of the session, get a free analysis report to find out where your practice stands online. It's our gift to you! https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/marketing-strategy-meeting/
If you're looking to boost your case acceptance rates and enhance patient communication, you can schedule a Coaching Strategy Meeting with Gary Takacs. With his experience in helping practices thrive, Gary will work with you on personalized coaching, ensuring you and your team are prepared to present treatment plans confidently, offer financing options, and communicate the value of essential dental services. https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/csm/
Thinking about going out of network? In this episode, Gary and Naren break down five real reasons why some dentists should wait. Learn how to tell if your practice is ready—or if you need more time, training, and trust-building first. A must-listen before you make the leap.
Book your free marketing strategy meeting with Ekwa at your convenience. Plus, at the end of the session, get a free analysis report to find out where your practice stands online. It's our gift to you! https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/marketing-strategy-meeting/
If you're looking to boost your case acceptance rates and enhance patient communication, you can schedule a Coaching Strategy Meeting with Gary Takacs. With his experience in helping practices thrive, Gary will work with you on personalized coaching, ensuring you and your team are prepared to present treatment plans confidently, offer financing options, and communicate the value of essential dental services. https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/csm/
In this episode, Gary and Naren discuss a powerful but often overlooked concept: discretionary spending and how your dental practice can benefit from it. Americans spend over $6 trillion every year on things they want, not just things they need. That includes healthcare decisions, like cosmetic dentistry, implants, and other elective treatments. Gary breaks down how understanding this mindset can help you better position your services, attract fee-for-service patients, and break free from insurance limitations.
Book your free marketing strategy meeting with Ekwa at your convenience. Plus, at the end of the session, get a free analysis report to find out where your practice stands online. It's our gift to you! https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/marketing-strategy-meeting/
If you're looking to boost your case acceptance rates and enhance patient communication, you can schedule a Coaching Strategy Meeting with Gary Takacs. With his experience in helping practices thrive, Gary will work with you on personalized coaching, ensuring you and your team are prepared to present treatment plans confidently, offer financing options, and communicate the value of essential dental services. https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/csm/
Have you ever wondered how many people actually take full advantage of their dental insurance? You might be surprised! In this episode, Gary and Naren dive into a shocking stat: only 2.8% of patients use their full yearly dental benefits. That means nearly everyone else is missing out on the coverage they’ve paid for. So why does this happen? Is it because people forget, or is dental insurance just too hard to navigate? Gary and Naren break it all down, exploring how dental insurance hasn’t kept up with rising costs and why many patients don’t value their benefits. They also offer practical tips for practice owners and staff to help patients make the most of their insurance, ensuring they get the care they need. Tune in to understand why only a small percentage use their full benefits and what you can do to change that.
Book your free marketing strategy meeting with Ekwa at your convenience. Plus, at the end of the session, get a free analysis report to find out where your practice stands online. It's our gift to you! https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/marketing-strategy-meeting/
If you're looking to boost your case acceptance rates and enhance patient communication, you can schedule a Coaching Strategy Meeting with Gary Takacs. With his experience in helping practices thrive, Gary will work with you on personalized coaching, ensuring you and your team are prepared to present treatment plans confidently, offer financing options, and communicate the value of essential dental services. https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/csm/
Ready to market smarter in 2025? In this episode of the Less Insurance Dependence Podcast, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah reveal the four essential marketing pillars your practice needs to grow without relying on PPO plans. Learn how to master organic SEO, build trust through Google reviews, improve call conversions, and optimize landing pages while attracting the right patients and boosting profitability. Listen now and unlock your 2025 marketing strategy!
Book your free marketing strategy meeting with Ekwa at your convenience. Plus, at the end of the session, get a free analysis report to find out where your practice stands online. It's our gift to you! https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/marketing-strategy-meeting/
If you're looking to boost your case acceptance rates and enhance patient communication, you can schedule a Coaching Strategy Meeting with Gary Takacs. With his experience in helping practices thrive, Gary will work with you on personalized coaching, ensuring you and your team are prepared to present treatment plans confidently, offer financing options, and communicate the value of essential dental services. https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/csm/
Can PPOs legally set fees for services they don’t even cover? In this episode, Gary and Naren break down the latest state-by-state legislation and what dentists need to know to protect their revenue.
You’ll learn how to identify non-covered services, adjust your fees legally, and avoid letting outdated contract terms limit your income.
Tune in to discover where your state stands—and what steps you can take today. Book your free marketing strategy meeting with Ekwa at your convenience. Plus, at the end of the session, get a free analysis report to find out where your practice stands online. It's our gift to you! https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/marketing-strategy-meeting/
If you're looking to boost your case acceptance rates and enhance patient communication, you can schedule a Coaching Strategy Meeting with Gary Takacs. With his experience in helping practices thrive, Gary will work with you on personalized coaching, ensuring you and your team are prepared to present treatment plans confidently, offer financing options, and communicate the value of essential dental services. https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/csm/
Running a dental practice comes with a lot of moving parts. From managing patients to keeping up with paperwork, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But what if your software could make things easier? In this episode, we’re joined by Dana Johnson, a dental software expert who shares how to use systems and technology to build a smoother, more profitable practice. If you’re tired of feeling stuck in old systems… or just want to work smarter, not harder… you’ll love the practical tips Dana shares in this episode. From training ideas to tech tools, this is your guide to creating a simpler, stronger dental practice — one that’s built to grow, with or without insurance.
Book your free marketing strategy meeting with Ekwa at your convenience. Plus, at the end of the session, get a free analysis report to find out where your practice stands online. It's our gift to you! https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/marketing-strategy-meeting/
If you're looking to boost your case acceptance rates and enhance patient communication, you can schedule a Coaching Strategy Meeting with Gary Takacs. With his experience in helping practices thrive, Gary will work with you on personalized coaching, ensuring you and your team are prepared to present treatment plans confidently, offer financing options, and communicate the value of essential dental services. https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/csm/
Do you feel tired, burned out, or stuck in your dental practice?
In this episode, co-host Michael Walker talks with Laura Brenner, a former dentist who knows how that feels. Laura shares her story of working in a busy, insurance-driven practice, where she felt overwhelmed and disconnected from her purpose.
She explains how stepping away from insurance-heavy systems helped her find more balance, build better relationships, and enjoy work again. You’ll hear helpful ideas on setting boundaries, finding real success, and creating a dental practice that supports both your health and your happiness.
If you’ve ever thought, “There has to be a better way,” this episode will help you take your first step toward a better future. Book your free marketing strategy meeting with Ekwa at your convenience. Plus, at the end of the session, get a free analysis report to find out where your practice stands online. It's our gift to you! https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/marketing-strategy-meeting/
If you're looking to boost your case acceptance rates and enhance patient communication, you can schedule a Coaching Strategy Meeting with Gary Takacs. With his experience in helping practices thrive, Gary will work with you on personalized coaching, ensuring you and your team are prepared to present treatment plans confidently, offer financing options, and communicate the value of essential dental services. https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/csm/
Feeling tired, stressed, or overwhelmed in your dental practice? You’re not alone. In this episode, co-host Michael Walker talks with Kari Carter-Cherelus—a dental hygienist, speaker, and author who has walked that same path and now helps others find a better way forward.
Kari shares her personal story of burnout, what caused it, and how she turned things around. She opens up about the real pressures dental professionals face—tight schedules, insurance frustrations, lack of appreciation, and feeling like there's never enough time for life outside of work.
You’ll learn how reducing insurance dependence can help create more balance, better patient care, and a happier, healthier team. Kari also shares simple, real-life strategies to manage stress, improve office culture, and support one another.
If you’re ready to feel more in control of your time, your practice, and your well-being—this episode is full of helpful tips and inspiring insight you won’t want to miss.
Book your free marketing strategy meeting with Ekwa at your convenience. Plus, at the end of the session, get a free analysis report to find out where your practice stands online. It's our gift to you! https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/marketing-strategy-meeting/
If you're looking to boost your case acceptance rates and enhance patient communication, you can schedule a Coaching Strategy Meeting with Gary Takacs. With his experience in helping practices thrive, Gary will work with you on personalized coaching, ensuring you and your team are prepared to present treatment plans confidently, offer financing options, and communicate the value of essential dental services. https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/csm/
In this episode of the Less Insurance Dependence Podcast, hosts Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah break down the essential steps to developing a customized blueprint for success in your dental practice.
Many dentists feel trapped by PPOs, working harder each year while losing a significant portion of their revenue to insurance write-offs. But the good news? There’s a way out.
Gary and Naren share a step-by-step approach to help you reverse engineer your success, transition away from PPOs, and build a thriving, profitable practice that provides personal, professional, and financial satisfaction.
Book your free marketing strategy meeting with Ekwa at your convenience. Plus, at the end of the session, get a free analysis report to find out where your practice stands online. It's our gift to you! https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/marketing-strategy-meeting/
If you're looking to boost your case acceptance rates and enhance patient communication, you can schedule a Coaching Strategy Meeting with Gary Takacs. With his experience in helping practices thrive, Gary will work with you on personalized coaching, ensuring you and your team are prepared to present treatment plans confidently, offer financing options, and communicate the value of essential dental services. https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/csm/
Many dentists feel stuck in PPO plans, especially in small towns where every other practice is in-network. They worry that going fee-for-service isn’t possible in their area. But what if that belief is holding them back?
In this episode, Gary and Naren share the story of a dentist who thought exactly that—until he saw things differently. Instead of seeing his town as a challenge, he realized being the only fee-for-service practice could actually be an advantage. Patients are looking for quality care, and many are willing to pay for it—if they know where to go.
Gary breaks down the mindset shift needed to leave PPOs successfully, no matter where your practice is located. He also shares practical steps, including how to market your practice, attract the right patients, and build strong relationships that keep them coming back.
Book your free marketing strategy meeting with Ekwa at your convenience. Plus, at the end of the session, get a free analysis report to find out where your practice stands online. It's our gift to you! https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/marketing-strategy-meeting/
If you're looking to boost your case acceptance rates and enhance patient communication, you can schedule a Coaching Strategy Meeting with Gary Takacs. With his experience in helping practices thrive, Gary will work with you on personalized coaching, ensuring you and your team are prepared to present treatment plans confidently, offer financing options, and communicate the value of essential dental services. https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/csm/
In this episode of the Less Insurance Dependence Podcast, co-hosts Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah discuss what it truly means to achieve financial independence through your dental practice. They break down the steps to financial freedom, including how to grow revenue with high-quality new patients, why PPO write-offs limit your wealth, and smart financial strategies like pension plans and investments.
Gary and Naren also highlight eye-opening statistics from the American Dental Association (ADA) about how few dentists can retire without lowering their lifestyle—and how you can ensure you’re on the right track.
Book your free marketing strategy meeting with Ekwa at your convenience. Plus, at the end of the session, get a free analysis report to find out where your practice stands online. It's our gift to you! https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/marketing-strategy-meeting/
If you're looking to boost your case acceptance rates and enhance patient communication, you can schedule a Coaching Strategy Meeting with Gary Takacs. With his experience in helping practices thrive, Gary will work with you on personalized coaching, ensuring you and your team are prepared to present treatment plans confidently, offer financing options, and communicate the value of essential dental services. https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/csm/
When a practice drops a PPO plan, patients don’t always react the way you’d expect. It’s not the cost of a crown or an implant that surprises them—it’s their hygiene visit. For years, they’ve believed their cleanings were “free,” but once you're out of network, that changes.
In this episode, Gary and Naren dive into why hygiene visit fees create the biggest pushback, how insurance companies handle co-pays differently, and what you can do to keep patients from leaving. You’ll hear real-world examples, simple communication strategies, and ways to prevent surprises for your patients.
Navigating this transition doesn’t have to be difficult. By preparing in advance and understanding what matters most to patients, you can avoid common pitfalls and ensure a smoother shift to fee-for-service.
If you're thinking about resigning from PPOs, this episode is a must-listen. Learn how to keep your practice thriving while reducing insurance dependence—without losing valuable patients.
Book your free marketing strategy meeting with Ekwa at your convenience. Plus, at the end of the session, get a free analysis report to find out where your practice stands online. It's our gift to you! https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/marketing-strategy-meeting/
If you're looking to boost your case acceptance rates and enhance patient communication, you can schedule a Coaching Strategy Meeting with Gary Takacs. With his experience in helping practices thrive, Gary will work with you on personalized coaching, ensuring you and your team are prepared to present treatment plans confidently, offer financing options, and communicate the value of essential dental services. https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/csm/
Going out of network with insurance is a big decision for any dental practice, but timing is crucial. In this episode of The Less Insurance Dependence Podcast, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah break down the key mistakes practice owners make when transitioning away from PPO plans. They outline four critical factors to evaluate before making the move, including the strength of patient relationships, the effectiveness of marketing strategies, and scheduling demand.
If your practice isn’t prepared, dropping PPOs at the wrong time can lead to revenue loss, empty schedules, and unnecessary stress. But with the right approach, you can successfully transition while maintaining financial stability. This episode is essential for practice owners who want to take control of their profitability without risking their patient base. Tune in to learn practical steps to ensure your practice is truly ready to go out of network.
Book your free marketing strategy meeting with Ekwa at your convenience. Plus, at the end of the session, get a free analysis report to find out where your practice stands online. It's our gift to you! https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/marketing-strategy-meeting/
Are you tired of PPOs cutting into your hard-earned revenue? Many dentists feel stuck relying on insurance companies for patients—while sacrificing profits. But what if you could take control and bring in patients on your own?
In this episode, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah discuss the 5 key areas of a marketing audit that can help determine whether your practice is ready to reduce PPO dependence.
You’ll learn how to check your Google rankings, online consistency (NAP score), website performance (Lighthouse score), credibility (E-E-A-T), and review growth (Google Review Velocity).
By understanding these essential marketing factors, you can replace insurance-driven patients with high-quality ones who value your care—all while lowering marketing costs.
If you’ve ever wondered, “Is my practice ready to go out of network?” this episode gives you the answers. Tune in now and take the first step toward insurance freedom!
Book your free marketing strategy meeting with Ekwa at your convenience. Plus, at the end of the session, get a free analysis report to find out where your practice stands online. It's our gift to you! https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/marketing-strategy-meeting/
In this episode of the Less Insurance Dependence Podcast, co-hosts Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah discuss "Three Tips to Significantly Increase Your Conversion Rate." They define conversion rate as the percentage of new patient calls resulting in booked appointments, sharing benchmarks, and grading scales for assessment. Highlighting the importance of tracking and training, they stress the need for recording and reviewing calls to identify improvement areas. Book your free marketing strategy meeting with Ekwa at your convenience. Plus, at the end of the session, get a free analysis report to find out where your practice stands online. It's our gift to you! https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/marketing-strategy-meeting/
In this episode, Naren and Gary explore the insurance company business model and its impact on dental practices and the broader public, highlighting recent events, including systemic issues like AI-driven claim denials, that have placed the insurance industry under scrutiny. They emphasize how these practices reveal insurers' priority to collect premiums while minimizing claims payouts, often at the expense of policyholders. They will also share how this trend affects dental insurance and advocate for educating patients on the limitations of their plans while positioning practices as genuinely caring about their patients' health. Book your free marketing strategy meeting with Ekwa at your convenience. Plus, at the end of the session, get a free analysis report to find out where your practice stands online. It's our gift to you! https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/marketing-strategy-meeting/
This episode of "The Less Insurance Dependence Podcast" explores how staying in-network with PPO insurance can significantly impact a dental practice's profitability and overall net worth. Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah discuss the hidden costs of insurance adjustments, which can amount to 45-50% of collections, reducing practice profitability and valuation. They illustrate this with real examples, emphasizing how becoming out-of-network can dramatically increase a practice's profitability, making it more desirable and valuable in the market.
Book your free marketing strategy meeting with Ekwa at your convenience. Plus, at the end of the session, get a free analysis report to find out where your practice stands online. It's our gift to you! https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/marketing-strategy-meeting/
This episode of the Less Insurance Dependence Podcast highlights the importance of proactive marketing when transitioning away from PPO plans. Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah discuss three key strategies: setting bold goals for collections and new patient numbers, implementing a comprehensive marketing plan, and targeting the resignation of at least one PPO plan in 2025. They emphasize the risks of neglecting marketing, likening it to unused muscles that atrophy, sharing real examples of practices successfully leveraging organic SEO for consistent patient growth, and urging listeners to plan to avoid disruptions and achieve sustainable success.
Book your free marketing strategy meeting with Ekwa at your convenience. Plus, at the end of the session, get a free analysis report to find out where your practice stands online. It's our gift to you! https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/marketing-strategy-meeting/
This episode of the Less Insurance Dependence Podcast addresses the growing impact of AI-driven auto-denial insurance claims and how dental practices can adapt. Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah discuss how insurance companies use AI to increase profits by automating claim denials, making it challenging for dental practices to receive payments. They highlight the financial imbalance in the dental insurance model, where only insurance companies benefit, and urge dentists to reduce their dependence on PPO plans, as reform is unlikely. They also emphasize focusing on what practices can be controlled to achieve financial and operational stability. Book your free marketing strategy meeting with Ekwa at your convenience. Plus, at the end of the session, get a free analysis report to find out where your practice stands online. It's our gift to you! https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/marketing-strategy-meeting/
Ever wondered how the journey of reducing insurance dependence began? In this episode of the Less Insurance Dependence Podcast, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah share the inspiring story behind the podcast’s creation seven years ago. They discuss how a niche focus on helping dentists successfully resign from PPO plans has empowered over 400 practices nationwide. From the pitfalls of DIY strategies to the transformational impact of personalized coaching, this episode highlights steps to make 2025 your most profitable year yet. Tune in for more on building a thriving, fee-for-service practice and putting insurance dependence in the rearview mirror!
Book your free marketing strategy meeting with Ekwa at your convenience. Plus, at the end of the session, get a free analysis report to find out where your practice stands online. It's our gift to you! https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/marketing-strategy-meeting/
In this episode of The Less Insurance Dependence Podcast, co-hosts Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah discuss the growing trend of dental insurance claim denials. They explore how insurance companies are increasing claim rejections, requesting excessive documentation, and leveraging policies like wait periods to reduce benefits utilization. They emphasize that these practices prioritize profits over patient care, creating challenges for dentists and patients alike. Gary and Naren encourage dentists to reduce their reliance on Insurance, highlighting the benefits of resigning from PPO plans and attracting patients without Insurance, stressing the importance of building strong patient relationships to sustain a thriving, independent dental practice.
Book your free marketing strategy meeting with Ekwa at your convenience. Plus, at the end of the session, get a free analysis report to find out where your practice stands online. It's our gift to you! https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/marketing-strategy-meeting/
In this episode of The Less Insurance Dependence Podcast, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah discuss whether dental insurance will undergo significant changes in 2025. Gary highlights the historical context and entrenched profit-driven practices of insurance companies and explains why a major overhaul is unlikely. However, minor legislative improvements, such as prohibiting insurers from setting fees on uncovered services, might occur.
Book a free marketing strategy meeting with Ekwa and discover how we can help you leverage reviews to attract more patients!
https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/marketing-strategy-meeting/
Find out the impact of Google Reviews on reducing PPO dependence through this episode of The Less Insurance Dependence Podcast, where Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah share how modern consumer behavior is reshaping dental marketing. They explore why fewer patients rely on insurance company websites and instead turn to Google to find top-rated dental practices. Learn how having numerous positive reviews influences patient decisions and enhances your online presence, which is a mindset shift for dentists, focusing on Google strategies rather than PPO participation.
Book a free marketing strategy meeting with Ekwa and discover how we can help you leverage reviews to attract more patients!
https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/marketing-strategy-meeting/
In this episode, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah talk about one of the most common questions dental practices face from potential new patients: "Do you take my insurance?" They emphasize the importance of proper call training to address this question effectively and convert inquiries into appointments. Gary shares a case study of a practice that improved its call conversion rate from 25% to 75% through focused training, highlighting the impact on new patient numbers without increasing marketing costs.
Book your free marketing strategy meeting with Ekwa at your convenience. Plus, at the end of the session, get a free analysis report to find out where your practice stands online. It's our gift to you! https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/marketing-strategy-meeting/
This episode of The Less Insurance Dependence Podcast focuses on "Recession Proofing Your Dental Practice." Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah share straightforward tips to help dental practices thrive during challenging economic times. They emphasize building patient trust, creating a relationship-driven environment, and providing unique reasons for patients to choose your practice, such as state-of-the-art technology and a focus on prevention. The episode also highlights the pitfalls of relying heavily on dental insurance networks and encourages practices to attract patients who value quality care.
Book your free marketing strategy meeting with Ekwa at your convenience. Plus, at the end of the session, get a free analysis report to find out where your practice stands online. It's our gift to you! https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/marketing-strategy-meeting/
In this episode, Gary and Naren dive into strategies for "Recession Proofing Your Dental Practice." They explore the reality that dental practices are often viewed as expendable by insurance companies, leading to unfair reimbursement rates and restrictive policies. Gary shares insights from working with over 400 practices that have successfully transitioned away from PPO plans, emphasizing the power dentists have when they choose to operate independently of insurance constraints. This discussion offers a blueprint for building a thriving, resilient dental practice that prioritizes fair treatment for patients and providers, regardless of economic downturns or industry pressures. Book your free marketing strategy meeting with Ekwa at your convenience. Plus, at the end of the session, get a free analysis report to find out where your practice stands online. It's our gift to you! https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/marketing-strategy-meeting/
Ever wondered how to Improve Your Practice Without Completely Committing To Fee-for-Service? Gary and Naren take on a discussion throughout this episode about ways to improve a dental practice without fully committing to a fee-for-service model. They address the benefits of gradually reducing participation in PPO plans, allowing practices to increase profitability while maintaining flexibility. Gary shares a compelling case study of a dental practice that successfully transitioned out of PPO networks, increasing collections and reducing overhead. Tune in and get inspired to make small, impactful changes that could transform your practice’s future.
Book your free marketing strategy meeting with Ekwa at your convenience. Plus, at the end of the session, get a free analysis report to find out where your practice stands online. It's our gift to you! https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/marketing-strategy-meeting/
In this episode, co-hosts Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah discuss the rising appeal of fee-for-service dental care as inflation and economic challenges strain insurance-based practices. They explore how increasing costs, especially in wages, and declining reimbursements from PPOs are pushing many dentists to consider dropping insurance plans altogether. By reducing insurance dependence, dentists can regain control over their fees, enhance practice profitability, and offer high-quality care. This episode highlights the benefits of transitioning to fee-for-service as a sustainable path to a thriving, independent dental practice.
In this episode of the Less Insurance Dependence Podcast, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah explore whether potential new patients exist who are unaffected by a soft economy. They discuss how certain high-value dental services, such as implant restorations, smile makeovers, and sleep apnea treatments, remain in demand despite economic downturns. They emphasize the importance of attracting patients seeking specific solutions, regardless of financial conditions. Listeners will gain insights into how to build a recession-proof practice by focusing on patients who seek high-value procedures and leveraging SEO to reach them.
In this episode of the Less Insurance Dependence podcast, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah explore the concept of a hybrid dental practice model. They begin by discussing the definition of a hybrid model, which involves a mix of participating in some PPO insurance plans while also offering fee-for-service care. For many dental practices, the journey to a fully fee-for-service model may seem daunting, especially since around 90-95% of U.S. dentists are in-network with PPO plans. For these practices, transitioning to a hybrid model can serve as a stepping stone, allowing them to gradually reduce insurance dependence without fully stepping away from PPOs. The hybrid model can be a viable long-term strategy for practices wanting to balance PPO participation with fee-for-service offerings. It provides an opportunity to improve profitability and patient care gradually while maintaining some level of insurance participation when necessary.
In this episode of the Less Insurance Dependence podcast, Gary Takacs interviews Dr. Bill Hang about the crucial topic of airway awareness in dentistry. Dr. Hang emphasizes the link between airway function and overall health, urging dentists to recognize signs of airway issues in their patients. He discusses strategies for integrating airway assessments into routine evaluations and highlights the importance of patient education regarding airway health.
Dr. Hang also underscores the need for ongoing education for dentists, encouraging collaboration with other healthcare professionals to address airway concerns comprehensively. His insights provide valuable knowledge for dental professionals seeking to enhance patient care and improve health outcomes through a focus on airway awareness.
In the latest episode of the Less Insurance Dependence podcast, co-hosts Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah explore what it truly means to be part of the top 1% of dental practices and how to reach that elite status.
Throughout the conversation, Gary shares seven key strategies that can propel practices to the top level, hinting at several specific goals that successful practitioners should aim for. He discusses the significance of achieving a healthy work-life balance and having a high-performance team, which are crucial for overall satisfaction and success in the dental field. This engaging episode offers listeners a glimpse into the path to practice excellence, with plenty of actionable insights to help elevate their practices.
In this episode of the Less Insurance Dependence Podcast, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah explore strategies for staying motivated as dental practices transition out of PPO networks. They emphasize that this journey is more of a marathon than a sprint, with practices seeing gradual improvements as they reduce their dependence on insurance. The key to success lies in maintaining a strong sense of motivation, both for doctors and their teams. Dentists must act as Chief Motivation Officers (CMOs), leading by example and keeping morale high during this challenging process. As the team stays motivated and patient concerns are handled with empathy, practices can successfully navigate the transition out of the network and thrive.
In this episode of the Less Insurance Dependence Podcast, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah focus on the five major expense categories that, when managed effectively, can substantially improve a dental practice's profitability. These categories account for 85% of a practice's expenses.
They stress that effective management of these key expenses can lead to a thriving dental practice. One particular challenge is managing team wages, which have been impacted by rising inflation. However, growth can help offset these costs. By growing a practice by $100,000 annually, significant profitability gains can be achieved, especially when the practice maintains the same team and operational hours.
In this episode of the Less Insurance Dependence Podcast, co-hosts Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah explore the concept of creating a memorable and impactful new patient experience in dental practices. They emphasize the importance of designing an experience that aligns with patient expectations while achieving the practice's goals for comprehensive care. The hosts discuss the significance of the first impression a dental practice makes on a new patient. A well-structured new patient experience can lead to five-star reviews, long-term patient retention, and increased case acceptance. The focus is on delivering an experience that balances the patient's desire for a cleaning with the practice's need for comprehensive records and a thorough examination. To help practices create this ideal experience, the hosts introduce a seven-step process.
In this Episode of the Less Insurance Dependence Podcast, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah emphasize the importance of strategic growth for dental practices, especially those looking to reduce their reliance on PPO plans. The hosts stress that strategic growth is vital for any dental practice, as staying stagnant is not an option due to inflation and rising costs. Intentional growth ensures that a practice’s income and value continue to rise over time.
The episode highlights several methods to achieve strategic growth. One primary strategy is resigning from PPO plans, which allows practices to retain 45-50% more of their fees, even if some patients are lost in the process. Another effective approach is adding high-value services such as implants, adult orthodontics, and cosmetic dentistry, which can significantly increase revenue. For practices with sufficient demand, expanding the team by hiring an associate can also promote growth, provided it is carefully planned to support both the owner and the new associate.
In this episode, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah discuss the critical topic of resigning from PPO plans to improve work-life balance. They explore why reducing insurance dependence is vital for dentists seeking a more fulfilling and sustainable practice. Dentists often face challenges such as low reimbursement rates and increased patient loads associated with PPO plans. By reducing their dependence on these plans, dentists can gain better control over pricing, enhance profitability, and provide higher-quality patient care.
The episode features real-life success stories from dental practices that have successfully resigned from PPO plans. These testimonials highlight the positive impacts on patient satisfaction and practice profitability. Dentists who have made this transition report experiencing less stress, increased job satisfaction, and more time for personal and professional growth.
In this episode, Gary and Naren explore the critical importance of making new patients feel valued and welcomed from their very first interaction with your practice. With rising competition and the ongoing need to reduce dependence on PPO plans, it's more important than ever to "roll out the red carpet" for new patients. A key factor in this process is ensuring immediate availability for new patient appointments, ideally within a week of their initial call. If your practice fails to offer a timely appointment, there's a high likelihood that the potential patient will seek care elsewhere.
Effective scheduling plays a pivotal role in this. By utilizing new patient blocks in your schedule, you can ensure that these patients have access to appointments. It's recommended to start scheduling these blocks months in advance to avoid future booking conflicts. Your front desk team should be well-trained to handle calls from new patients, emphasizing the importance of offering timely appointments and prioritizing these new patient blocks.
In this episode of the Less Insurance Dependence Podcast, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah address the common issue of team resistance when transitioning to a less insurance-dependent practice. They discuss practical strategies for managing team members' fears and concerns, highlighting the importance of clear communication, ongoing training, and maintaining a patient-centered approach. Understanding that resistance is a natural human response to change, especially when job security is perceived to be at risk, the hosts emphasize that this shift doesn't mean abandoning patients but rather allows the practice to set its fees while remaining patient-friendly.
Gary and Naren stress the importance of starting with a strong "why" when explaining the transition away from PPO plans. This approach should focus on the benefits for both the team and the patients rather than solely on financial motivations. By ensuring that all team members are consistently delivering the same message to patients, confusion is minimized, and the practice's commitment to high-quality care is reinforced.
In this episode of the Less Insurance Dependence Podcast, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah discuss "Negotiated Fee Schedules: Truth or Fiction."
Historically, until around 2011 or 2012, dentists had some success negotiating fees with PPO plans. However, in recent years, insurance companies have largely stopped negotiating fees, leaving dentists with limited options. Gary explains that while insurance companies generally refuse to negotiate when asked directly, there has been a recent shift. In some cases, after a dentist resigns from a PPO plan, the insurance company might reach out with an offer to renegotiate the fee schedule in an attempt to retain the dentist within their network.
The key takeaway is that while negotiated fee schedules can be a reality, they require persistence, strategic resignation, and careful consideration. Gary concludes by advising dentists to be cautious and prepared to follow through with their resignation if negotiations do not yield acceptable results, highlighting that this approach is not one to be taken lightly.
In this episode of the Less Insurance Dependence Podcast titled "Fee Setting Guidelines," hosts Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah go deep into the crucial topic of how to set fees in a dental practice effectively. They begin by emphasizing the importance of regularly updating fees, particularly in an inflationary economy, to ensure that dental practices remain profitable. Gary discusses the ideal, though impractical, method of using cost accounting to determine fees, where the exact cost of delivering each service is calculated, and a profit margin is added. However, due to the complexity and variables involved, this method is only feasible for some practices.
Instead, Gary suggests using independent third-party resources like the National Dental Advisory Service, which provides annual fee guidelines by zip code. These guidelines allow dentists to set their fees based on various percentiles, giving them the ability to align their pricing with the quality of care they provide and the economic environment of their location.
In this Episode of the Less Insurance Dependence podcast, Gary Takacs is joined by guest Jordan Comstock to discuss the importance and implementation of in-office membership plans. Gary emphasizes the significance of these plans, particularly for dental practices aiming to reduce dependence on PPOs. He introduces Jordan, the CEO of BoomCloud, a company that helps dental offices create and manage these plans. Jordan highlights the benefits of in-office membership plans, such as generating predictable recurring revenue and retaining patients. He explains that setting the right pricing based on local demographics is crucial for success.
Gary and Jordan discuss various strategies to maximize the potential of membership plans. They also explore the potential of marketing to business owners, who can offer membership plans to their employees as a cost-effective alternative to traditional dental insurance. Overall, the episode provides valuable insights into creating and maximizing in-office membership plans to enhance practice profitability and patient retention.
In this episode of The Less Insurance Dependence Podcast hosts Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah discuss a critical topic for dental practices: controlling overhead. They begin by discussing the essential aspects of overhead, defining it as all necessary expenses to run a practice, excluding the dentist’s compensation. For solo practices, they recommend keeping overhead below 60%. They stress the importance of focusing on the five main expense categories that constitute about 85% of a practice’s costs: staff compensation, lab expenses, facility costs, consumable supplies, and marketing.
Gary and Naren offer practical advice on managing these expenses, such as monitoring staff compensation, optimizing lab costs, and maintaining a facility budget of 5% or less. They emphasize the value of investing in marketing strategies that bring down costs while attracting quality patients, suggesting that marketing expenses can be reduced to less than 1% with effective techniques. They also address specific challenges like rising wages for hygienists and how to maintain a hygiene-driven practice despite these costs.
In this episode of The Less Insurance Dependence Podcast, hosts Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah delve into the critical topic of balancing profitability and serving those in need within a dental practice.
The central topic of this episode is the idea that it is possible to have a profitable practice while serving those in need. Naren shares his experience working with dentists and notes that most dental professionals are driven by a desire to help others rather than solely by profit. However, he acknowledges that many dentists need help with the business side of their practices, especially when dealing with PPO plans and their associated low reimbursements. Gary passionately argues that profitability and service are not mutually exclusive and that a profitable practice can enhance one's ability to give back to the community.
Gary recounts a recent coaching strategy meeting with a potential client who expressed concern about balancing profitability with his mission to serve those in need. This client had a successful, state-of-the-art practice but faced profitability issues due to participation in multiple PPO plans. Gary reassures the client that profitability enables more significant contributions to charitable causes and emphasizes the concept that "you can't give from an empty wagon." He shares examples of how other dentists have successfully integrated charitable work into their practices while remaining profitable.
Throughout the episode, Gary and Naren explore various ways dentists can give back, whether through local initiatives, national programs like the Mission of Mercy, or international missionary trips. They stress that being profitable allows dentists to have the flexibility and resources to support these efforts effectively. Gary also highlights the importance of preventive care and quality dentistry for those on limited budgets, underscoring the value of serving all patients with the best possible care.
As the episode concludes, Gary reflects on the profound impact of addressing the emotional conflicts that can hinder dentists' decision-making. He reiterates that achieving both profitability and a commitment to service is entirely possible and essential for a thriving practice.
In this episode of The Less Insurance Dependence Podcast, hosts Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah dive into the essential strategies for attracting high-value patients to a dental practice. They open the discussion by emphasizing the importance of reducing insurance dependence, aiming to transform practices.
The episode's primary focus is on high-value services. Gary defines procedures requiring more investment from patients and offering higher productivity per unit of time for the practice. These services include dental implants, adult orthodontics, cosmetic dentistry, complex restorative dentistry, oral conscious sedation, and more. By incorporating these services, dentists can significantly enhance their practice's profitability and independence on insurance.
Gary and Naren discuss Google's pivotal role in attracting high-value patients, emphasizing the need to dominate Google search results to reach the top 5% of practices that capture 95% of organic traffic. They explain the importance of search engine optimization (SEO) and the difference between organic and paid search results. They note that organic search leads to more engaged and trusting practices among patients.
Naren outlines six critical factors that influence Google's ranking algorithm and stresses the need for consistent efforts both on the practice's website and across the internet to maintain a top position. He underscores the cost-effectiveness of SEO compared to paid search and P P O marketing, illustrating how a strong SEO strategy can lead to long-term success and reduced marketing expenses.
The episode concludes with Gary reflecting on the deeper rewards of dentistry, noting that hiGoogle's services not only enhance a practice's financial health but also enable practice life-changing impacts on their patients.
In this milestone 300th episode of the Less Insurance Dependence Podcast, listeners are treated to the success stories of three guests at different stages of their journey toward reducing insurance dependence. Dale, Gina, and Peter share their unique experiences, lessons learned, and invaluable insights for fellow dentists. They discuss what has worked effectively and potential adjustments they would consider and emphasize critical strategies they wish they had implemented sooner. Their candid reflections offer listeners practical guidance and inspiration for navigating the complexities of transitioning to a fee-for-service model. They share insights on the impact of COVID-19, which unexpectedly helped retain patients who truly value their practices. Dale explains how his practice successfully resigned from Delta Dental, highlighting the importance of a thorough six-step plan and coaching support. Gina emphasizes the crucial role of patient relationships and new patient experiences in making the transition smoother. Peter discusses the role of their business administrator and the significance of strong leadership in navigating this change.
For dentists considering this transition, Dale advises getting the practice in order and ensuring an exceptional patient experience. Gina suggests thorough preparation, while Peter emphasizes having a strong business administrator and leveraging coaching support. They also discuss having a backup plan to rejoin insurance networks if necessary, although they have yet to have to do so.
Economic benefits are evident, as Dale shares, with fee-for-service patients bringing in better financial outcomes compared to insurance patients. Practical steps include starting with the smallest insurance plan to build confidence and preparing scripted responses for patient conversations. Gary addresses questions about specialty practices, confirming that pediatric practices can also successfully transition with the right approach.
In this episode of The Less Insurance Dependence Podcast, host Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah discuss crucial payment details when resigning from PPO plans. They aim to alleviate the common anxieties dentists face when transitioning away from insurance dependence. The core topic of this episode delves into the logistics of payment collection post-PPO resignation. Gary explains that most insurance companies, except Delta, allow for the assignment of benefits, meaning the insurance company will continue sending checks directly to the practice. For Delta, however, checks are sent to the patients, necessitating full payment collection at the time of service. Gary offers practical advice on communicating this change to patients, suggesting a script that emphasizes the speedy reimbursement process from Delta and the option to use credit cards to manage the initial payment. Naren then poses three pertinent questions to listeners. The first question addresses whether practices collect full payment at the time of service. Gary clarifies that this depends on the insurance company's policies, but full payment is required upfront for Delta patients, with an emphasis on the swift reimbursement they will receive. The second question explores what types of payment plans or financing options should be offered to make dental care more affordable. Gary recommends third-party financing options such as CareCredit and Proceed Finance, which offer flexible payment plans, including interest-free options and extended payment terms.
This episode provides valuable insights and practical strategies for dental practices aiming to reduce insurance dependence while maintaining financial stability and strong patient relationships.
In this episode of the Less Insurance Dependence Podcast, hosts Naren Arulrajah and Gary Takacs discuss effective strategies for communicating with patients about the value of being out of network. The primary focus is on framing the conversation to highlight the benefits for the patients, encapsulated by the principle of WII-FM (What's In It For Me?).
Gary emphasizes the importance of maintaining high-quality care and a positive patient experience, explaining that staying out of network ensures the practice's ability to provide these consistently. By not being constrained by insurance companies, the practice can invest in the latest technologies, such as single-visit restorations, lasers, and three-dimensional cone beams, which significantly enhance patient care. Additionally, being out of network allows the practice to hire and retain quality team members, further ensuring excellent patient service.
The hosts discuss tailoring the communication to the patient's perspective. For instance, when talking to a business owner, mentioning how some insurance companies haven't raised fees since 2009 can resonate well, as business owners understand the need to keep up with operational costs to maintain quality. For the general patient population, it's important to reassure them that they can still use their benefits and that the practice will help them maximize those benefits.
In this episode of The Less Insurance Dependence Podcast, hosts Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah tackle the question of why PPO plans have not raised fees or yearly maximums in 25 years. They attribute this stagnation to insurance companies' greed, emphasizing the industry's profit-driven nature. Despite this, they offer insights and strategies for dental practices looking to reduce their dependence on insurance plans and transition to a fee-for-service model.
Gary and Naren address common concerns of dentists, such as drawing enough fee-for-service patients and surviving in states like California, where insurance economics may need to align with practice viability. They highlight the importance of mastering organic search engine optimization to attract new patients from sources like Google rather than relying solely on PPO plans for patient referrals.
Moreover, they discuss the mindset shift necessary to navigate patient expectations, particularly those accustomed to minimal out-of-pocket expenses due to insurance coverage. By emphasizing the value of quality care and creating positive patient experiences, practices can effectively transition away from insurance dependence.
In this episode of The Less Insurance Dependence Podcast, hosts Gary Takas and Naren Arulrajah discuss the feasibility and implications of dropping PPO plans within 12 months. Gary highlights that while it is possible to resign from PPO plans quickly, success depends heavily on a practice's preparation. He emphasizes the importance of transitioning to a relationship-driven practice to retain patients and reduce overhead costs. Gary shares insights from his experience helping over 400 practices across the U.S. and notes that rushing the process without proper preparation, such as training the team in communication and ramping up marketing efforts, can lead to significant patient loss and operational difficulties. Narain underscores the need for practices to develop the right mindset and skills, especially in communicating the value of care to patients who are accustomed to free dentistry through PPO plans. The hosts invite listeners considering this transition to book a coaching strategy meeting with Gary to ensure they approach the process correctly, balancing speed with achieving the best outcomes. They stress that achieving a successful resignation from PPO plans involves comprehensive readiness and the implementation of strategic steps to ensure the practice thrives without insurance dependence.
In this episode of the Less Insurance Dependence Podcast, hosts Naren Arulrajah and Gary Takacs focus on the ten key performance indicators (KPIs) that define a thriving and profitable dental practice. They highlight the importance of these KPIs in measuring and improving various aspects of a dental practice.
First, they discuss the importance of new Google reviews, recommending a goal of at least ten new reviews per month to enhance online reputation and attract new patients. Next, they emphasize the need to measure new patients per month, specifically adult patients undergoing comprehensive exams, to ensure a steady influx of new patients.
Gary emphasizes the importance of monitoring these KPIs monthly to keep a finger on the pulse of the practice and shares insights on how focusing on these metrics can lead to significant improvements. The episode provides practical advice for dental practices aiming to enhance their performance and profitability through strategic measurement and management of these essential KPIs.
In this episode of The Less Insurance Dependence Podcast, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah explore strategies for maintaining profitability after dropping PPO plans. They emphasize the dual approach of increasing revenues and decreasing expenses, noting that eliminating the high overhead of PPO adjustments is crucial.
Gary advises focusing on building a strong hygiene department, incorporating high-value services like adult orthodontics, cosmetic dentistry, and dental implants, and using oral conscious sedation to boost treatment acceptance. He also highlights the importance of effective marketing, maximizing the use of auxiliary team members, and improving case presentation skills to increase daily production.
The episode concludes with a discussion of the most profitable elective procedures, such as dental implants, adult orthodontics, and smile design. These services not only generate high revenue but also meet patient demands for comprehensive care. The hosts underline that with the right strategies, practices can successfully transition away from PPO plans and achieve greater profitability.
In this episode of the "Less Insurance Dependence" podcast, hosts Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah tackle the pressing question: Can Your Practice Truly Survive Without Insurance? The episode elaborates on four questions sent in by listeners, addressing various aspects of dealing with insurance companies, particularly focusing on Delta Dental. Gary shares his expertise and experience, shedding light on the evolving landscape of insurance, the challenges posed by Delta Dental, and strategies for managing insurance transitions effectively.
Listeners learn about the expected changes from Delta Dental, including potential fee reductions and increased administrative burdens for providers. They also gain insights into why Delta Dental sends payments to subscribers for out-of-network patients, understanding the company's tactics to pressure providers to stay in-network.
Furthermore, the hosts discuss the importance of effective communication with patients when considering dropping insurance plans, emphasizing the significance of face-to-face discussions and strategic planning to minimize patient loss during transitions. They highlight the need for a comprehensive approach, including coaching and backup plans, to comprehend the complexities of insurance transitions successfully. Tune in to gain valuable insights and strategies for success in an evolving dental landscape.
In this episode of "The Less Insurance Dependence Podcast," Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah engage in a detailed discussion on whether insurance companies possess the authority to establish fees for services not covered under insurance plans. They travel into the historical challenges dentists face when insurance companies dictate fees for services beyond their coverage, pondering the philosophical implications of such practices. Notably, they shed light on recent legislative advancements in select states that aim to address this issue. The conversation underscores the importance of dentists staying abreast of state regulations and refraining from violating contract terms. Furthermore, they advocate for a strategic transition away from reliance on PPO plans, emphasizing alternative marketing avenues like Google SEO to attract patients and regain control over fee setting.
In this episode of the Less Insurance Dependence podcast, Gary Takas and Naren Arulrajah tackle a common dilemma faced by dental practices transitioning out of network: should they accept the assignment of benefits? They begin by elucidating the significance of this term in dental insurance processes, where accepting the assignment of benefits means authorizing the insurance company to send the reimbursement check directly to the dental practice rather than to the patient.
The hosts discuss the variability in policies among insurance companies, particularly focusing on the restrictive nature of Delta Dental regarding the acceptance of the assignment of benefits. They emphasize the importance of checking with insurance companies about their policies post-transitioning out of the network, as some may need to allow practices to accept the assignment of benefits for in-state patients.
Despite the challenges, Gary and Naren advocate for a patient-friendly approach even after transitioning out of the network. They stress the importance of making processes easy for patients and disagree with consultants who suggest completely washing hands off insurance involvement post-transition. Instead, they recommend maintaining a level of involvement in insurance processes to provide better customer service to patients. The hosts express optimism about successfully resigning from PPO plans within a specific timeframe.
In this episode of The Less Insurance Dependence Podcast, co-hosts Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah dive into a thought-provoking discussion on whether dentistry should be considered a profession or an industry. They acknowledge the significant influence of insurance companies on dental practices, shaping them more towards being transactional providers rather than relationship-driven professionals. Gary emphasizes the importance of the terminology used, advocating for viewing dentistry as a profession due to the expertise, care, and dedication involved in providing dental services. He urges listeners to assess where their practice lies on the spectrum between transactional and relationship-driven and to consider moving towards a more patient-centered approach. The episode concludes with invitations for further assistance in reducing insurance dependence and improving marketing strategies, encouraging dentists to schedule coaching or marketing strategy meetings. Through their insightful discussion, Gary and Naren provide valuable insights into the evolving nature of dentistry and the importance of patient-focused care.
In this episode of The Less Insurance Dependence Podcast, hosts Gary Takas and Naren Arulrajah delve into the topic of reducing practice overhead in dentistry. They emphasize the importance of addressing rising expenses, particularly in the post-COVID era, where overhead costs have surged due to inflation and increasing wages.
The hosts present a case study illustrating the impact of transitioning from in-network to fee-for-service, highlighting significant revenue increases and profit gains. They emphasize viewing PPO adjustments as marketing expenses and advocate for dentists to regain control over fee setting by resigning from PPO plans.
Gary recommends seeking guidance from the Academy of Dental CPAs and conducting a marketing strategy meeting to reduce overhead and increase profitability.
Overall, the episode provides valuable insights into addressing practice overhead challenges and emphasizes strategic decision-making to enhance practice profitability.
In this podcast episode, hosts Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah discuss the importance of offering high-value services like cosmetic dentistry to attract new patients and improve practice profitability. They share tips for dentists interested in expanding their services, such as joining professional organizations and using effective marketing strategies. They also highlight the growing demand for cosmetic dentistry among millennials. Tune in for valuable insights and opportunities for practice growth!
Tune in to this episode of the "Less Insurance Dependence" podcast, where hosts Naren Arulrajah and Gary Takacs provide a sneak preview of possible benefits reform in dental insurance. Drawing from Gary's insightful interview with Dr. Brett Kessler, president-elect of the American Dental Association (ADA), they delve into the pressing topic of benefits reform and its potential impact on dental practices. From disparities in coverage to advocating for patient-friendly approaches, Naren and Gary shed light on the transformative possibilities that reform could bring. Don't miss this engaging discussion. Join the conversation today!
Join Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah on the "Less Insurance Dependence" podcast as they delve into the often-overlooked benefits of resigning from PPO plans. In this enlightening episode, learn how freeing yourself from PPO entanglements can lead to increased profitability, more time for patient care, and a happier workplace environment. Gain valuable insights and real-life examples that will empower you to take control of your dental practice and thrive outside the confines of PPO dependence. Don't miss out on this eye-opening discussion.
In this podcast episode, Gary and Naren share a recap of the recent webinar with Dental Intel on the topic of Secrets to Thriving in Dentistry in 2024 and Beyond. Tune into this episode to learn further about the five proven strategies to make 2024 your best year yet, to learn about the data collected by Dental Intel working with 10,000 practices, and The Dental Buyer’s journey further explained by Naren.
This episode will help you understand the importance of leveraging psychology to convert website visitors into patients. Feeling stuck and unsure how to grow your dental practice in 2024? Tune into this episode to get insights from Gary and Naren.
In this podcast episode, Gary and Naren expose the hidden costs and restrictions of PPO umbrella plans. Learn how to break free and take control of your practice's profitability. You can also discover success stories and 3 key steps to resigning from PPO plans strategically. Listen now and escape the PPO Umbrella Nightmare!
The Less Insurance Dependence podcast episode titled "How Adding High-Value Services Makes You Less Insurance Dependent" delves into the significance of incorporating high-value services, particularly cosmetic dentistry, into dental practices. Hosts Gary Takacs and Naren Arulraja stress the economic drawbacks of relying heavily on insurance plans, which often result in significant fee write-offs for dentists. By contrast, offering services like cosmetic dentistry allows practitioners to set fair fees and attract patients who prioritize quality care over insurance coverage. The episode highlights the shift in patient mindset from seeking free or insurance-covered treatments to valuing and investing in services that enhance their oral health and aesthetics. Emphasizing the need for skill development and effective marketing strategies, the hosts suggest that adding high-value services not only reduces insurance dependence but also leads to greater professional fulfillment and practice success. They encourage dentists to explore opportunities for continuing education, renew memberships with organizations like the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, and consider coaching to integrate high-value services into their practices effectively.
In this episode of The Less Insurance Dependence podcast, co-hosts Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah delve into the topic of what it truly means to be fee-for-service (FFS) in dentistry. They emphasize that being FFS entails charging your full fees and receiving them directly from patients without involvement from insurance companies. They address common misconceptions about FFS dentistry and advocate for a patient-friendly approach. They highlight the importance of continuing to provide excellent care and support to patients, regardless of their insurance status. Additionally, they discuss practical strategies for navigating the transition from being in-network with insurance plans to becoming FFS. This includes insights on handling insurance claims, retaining patients, and effectively marketing a practice. Ultimately, the episode provides valuable guidance for dental practitioners seeking to reduce their dependence on insurance and create a thriving FFS practice.
In this episode, Gary and Naren tackle ‘The Top 10 Questions from RIDA Members, Part 2’. They stress the importance of addressing patient concerns directly when resigning from PPO plans, provide strategies for deciding which plan to drop first, get team buy-in, estimate out-of-network fees, and proactively replace lost patients through effective marketing. Tune in for practical insights and actionable steps.
In this podcast episode, Gary and Naren address the top 10 questions from RIDA members on transitioning from PPO plans. They discuss the timeframe for the transition, fee adjustments by Delta Dental, costs of SEO versus Google Ads patients, secrets to low-cost SEO patients, and evaluating readiness to resign from PPO plans. Practical insights and strategies are shared for dental practitioners aiming to reduce insurance dependence.
Discover how Gary's real-life practice story can help you explore the benefits of oral conscious sedation in dentistry. By focusing on high-value services like oral conscious sedation, you can attract patients outside PPO plans while also easing dental fears. Learn about the importance of SEO in attracting anxious patients for comprehensive care and reducing insurance dependence. With high-value services, you can transform your practice into a patient-centered and profitable dentistry business.
Gary and Naren explore the fallout of SmileDirectClub's collapse, drawing parallels to the pitfalls of the DIY mindset. Through anecdotes and case studies, they caution against undertaking complex tasks without proper expertise. Discover the risks of navigating unfamiliar territory alone and the importance of seeking professional guidance in this eye-opening episode.
In this episode, Gary explores the crucial link between mastering marketing and successfully resigning from PPO plans. By framing insurance write-offs as a strategic marketing expense, he reveals a path to acquiring new patients while minimizing losses.
Drawing on practical examples, the episode emphasizes the transformative impact of redirecting marketing efforts from PPO plans to platforms like Google, showcasing the financial benefits and enhanced patient acquisition strategies for dental practices.
Gary and Naren explore whether being a PPO provider truly supports work-life balance. This episode challenges the belief that PPO status aligns with equilibrium, emphasizing the sacrifices practitioners make.
Discover actionable steps to reclaim balance and why cutting ties with PPO plans might be the key to professional success and personal well-being. Tune in for a fresh perspective on dental practice management.
In this episode, Gary and Naren discuss the vital need for dental practices to reassess fee schedules, moving away from heavy reliance on PPO plans. They highlight the impact of stagnant fees on profitability and offer strategies for recalibrating prices to reflect fair value and cover rising costs.
Explore insights into attracting non-PPO patients and maintaining a balanced pricing strategy amid an evolving dental landscape. Tune in for actionable tips on navigating fee schedules to drive sustainable practice growth in today's dynamic market.
In this episode, Gary and Naren explore BHAGs (Big Hairy Audacious Goals) in business, inspired by Jim Collins and Peter Diamandis. They center on dentistry's BHAG: quitting PPO plans for practice success. Gary emphasizes the strategic impact and offers actionable steps for reducing insurance reliance, guiding dentists toward transformative changes in their practices.
Gary and Naren discuss Dr. Cialdini's unity principle. They highlight its power through initiatives like supplying NFL-grade mouthguards to local teams and creating strong community connections. They contrast this supportive unity with skepticism in traditional dental circles, emphasizing unity's transformative impact on dental practices.
This episode delves into the nuances of projecting confidence without appearing arrogant, especially in the dental field. It narrates a dentist's unexpected revelation after parting ways with a major insurance provider, highlighting the fears and innovative strategies employed to address patient concerns. Ultimately, it showcases the power of proactive planning and teamwork in achieving a surprising, positive outcome.
In this episode, Gary and Naren discuss scarcity as a potent influence principle in professional practice, inspired by Doctor Robert Chinni's teachings. They explore its impact on demand using Apple's iPhone launches as an example. Strategies for dental practices, like special service days and time-limited offers, highlight scarcity's influence. As the most transformative yet challenging principle, they guide listeners in applying this influential strategy in their professional endeavors.
Join Gary and Naren on the Less Insurance Dependence Podcast as they unravel the challenge of dentists being tied to unexpected PPO plans. Explore strategies to reveal hidden contracts, understand specifics, and employ proactive marketing to reduce reliance, regain control, and minimize financial impact on your practice.
Explore how beliefs shape actions through commitment and consistency. Discover actionable dental strategies leveraging these principles for enhanced patient engagement and practice success.
In this episode, Gary and Naren discuss lessons from the successful 2023 RIDA Virtual Summit. They talk about how more dentists need to learn to rely more on insurance, taking action for practice growth. They touch on economic challenges within networks and the importance of marketing, highlighting the happier and more profitable outcomes for dentists who've reduced insurance ties. The episode emphasizes the need for expert guidance in this transformative process, offering listeners access to the summit's full replay as a thank-you gesture.
Gary and Naren discuss influencing patients in dentistry. They share seven principles from Dr. Robert Cialdini, highlighting reciprocity – doing something nice makes others want to reciprocate. They emphasize how these small actions can build strong connections with patients, offering valuable insights for dentists to succeed through meaningful relationships.
In this episode, Gary and Narin explore how reducing insurance dependence in your dental practice can significantly enhance its long-term value. By attracting fee-for-service patients and eliminating unnecessary PPO plans, profitability increases, making your practice more attractive. They also discuss the possibility of selling to a Dental Service Organization (DSO).
In this episode, Gary and Naren explore the Influence Principle of Authority in your dental practice. They discuss establishing yourself as an expert using doctor testimonials from the Doctor's Choice Awards platform. They also highlight the importance of backlinks for SEO. By applying the Authority Principle, you can reduce insurance dependence and build patient trust. Discover how to become the trusted authority in your field and increase your influence.
In this podcast, Naren and Gary discuss the financial impact of keeping PPO plans for dental practices. They highlight the rising expenses, reduced income, and the need to reconsider their viability in the face of evolving economic conditions.
In this episode, Gary and Naren explore Dr. Robert Cialdini's principle of "liking" as a key element in reducing insurance dependence in dental practices. They emphasize the importance of creating a personal connection with patients, both online and in-person, and offer practical strategies for building likability. They also discuss the value of educational videos in simplifying complex dental concepts to enhance the dentist's approachability. Join them for actionable insights on boosting the influence of "liking" in your dental practice to strengthen patient relationships and build lasting rapport.
In this episode, Gary and Naren explore how PPO dental practices can face significant challenges in achieving their ideal practice. They discuss five key hurdles, including maintaining patient relationships, financial limitations due to insurance write-offs, insurance-driven patient mindsets, difficulties in hiring and retaining top team members, and limitations in offering high-value, life-changing dental services.
In this episode, Gary and Naren explore the power of social proof in dentistry. They discuss the dependency on PPO insurance plans and the importance of breaking free from this model. Emphasizing Google reviews as a tool to build trust, they share a five-step strategy for effective review gathering.
In this captivating podcast episode, Gary highlights "Three Mistakes Dentists Make with their Membership Plan." Experience the wisdom of an industry expert as he unravels these common pitfalls, championing the virtue of simplicity. Gary offers actionable advice on crafting a straightforward, single-plan approach, targeting a broader audience, and setting the optimal discount percentage at 10%. Tune in for a concise yet enlightening exploration of dental membership plans and their potential to transform your practice.
This episode explores the critical phase called "The Messy Middle" in dental practice transitions. After leaving insurance networks, practices encounter various patient reactions, requiring effective communication. Face-to-face conversations are essential for conveying nuances. While some patient loss is anticipated, practices with strong relationships tend to retain loyal patients who value their unique care experience. Expect "boomerang patients" to return after exploring other options. Preparation and team communication are key for a smoother transition and greater independence.
Explore the transformation of a solo dentist practice as it strategically reduces insurance dependency. This podcast episode showcases how the practice, initially hesitant to drop major insurance plans, experienced remarkable financial improvements. In 2021, it generated $1.9 million in production, collecting $1.4 million while writing off over $500,000. By 2022, the practice collected $1.7 million with reduced overhead, highlighting the positive impact of reduced insurance reliance on both finances and patient relationships. Discover valuable insights into this practice's journey toward greater financial independence.
Gary and Naren dive into why some dental practices drop insurance plans in this episode. They emphasize the importance of a patient-friendly approach, tailoring responses to individual patients, and maintaining consistency in communication. The episode explores various scenarios and strategies for addressing patients' concerns with empathy and transparency, ensuring a positive patient experience.
Join Gary and Naren in exploring dental insurance PPO plan negotiation intricacies. Revealing insurers' covert strategies, they debate if PPO plans are softening negotiation stances. Although PPOs typically resist negotiation, recent shifts suggest a change. Plans now propose fee schedules to retain resigning dentists. Gary urges dentists to boost confidence, explore diverse patient strategies, and stand up to insurance dominance. Attracting patients for reasons beyond network affiliations is vital. Using Google searches instead of PPO directories is recommended. Discover insightful strategies in this evolving PPO negotiation landscape.
Join Gary and Naren in this episode as they tackle the question, "Can You Successfully Resign From Delta?" Gain insights into reducing insurance dependence, building confidence, and transitioning towards practice control. Explore the journey from doubt to success.
Gary discusses the 'One and Done Thinking' trap in this episode, focusing on areas like Google reviews, verbal skills training, heads-up conversations, and team member recognition. He emphasizes that success requires ongoing effort rather than one-time actions. Gary and Naren highlight the value of consistency in these aspects for dental practice growth.
Unveil the hidden challenges of umbrella PPO dental plans with Gary's insights. Gain clarity on active patients, resignation periods, and strategies to break free from entanglements. Learn how to transition to comprehensive marketing and attract patients who value your services beyond insurance dependency.
In this highly informative episode, Gary reveals five crucial steps to help dentists prepare for resigning from PPO plans. Drawing from his extensive experience, he emphasizes the importance of proper preparation through success and failure stories. Tune in for actionable insights and expert guidance to set your practice up for success.
In this podcast, Gary and Naren discuss when resigning from PPO plans is not advisable. They identify three critical attributes: needing more reasons for patients to choose the practice, being a reliable source of new patients beyond PPO plans, and being transaction-driven instead of relationship-driven. These insights help dentists make informed decisions about their practices and the implications of resigning from PPO plans.
In this episode, Gary and Naren discuss the changing landscape of dental insurance, with Delta being defensive. They explore the factors influencing Delta's policies and offer insights for dental practices to navigate the evolving environment successfully.
In this Less Insurance Dependence Podcast episode, Naren and Gary discuss strategies to get team members on board when resigning from PPO plans. They emphasize the importance of team alignment, training, and communicating the benefits of the change to ensure a successful transition.
In this episode, discover how to empower patients who purchase their own dental insurance. Learn about a more beneficial in-office membership plan and its advantages, including cost savings, flexibility, and increased patient loyalty. Don't miss out on this valuable insight!
Dive into the world of PPO plans as Gary demystifies out-of-network benefits. Learn the crucial distinctions between open and closed panel plans and discover how in-office membership options can provide superior coverage at lower costs. Join the conversation for essential insights in this enlightening podcast episode.
Discover how a dental practice added $250k annually with Invisalign cases. Gary and Naren delve into strategies, including high-profit services and the impact of adult orthodontics. Overcome challenges like PPO plans by offering desired treatments.
Discover the potential of video communication in dental practices. Learn how incorporating facial expressions, tone, and body language enhances patient understanding when resigning from PPO plans. With concise 2-3 minute videos, practitioners effectively convey changes while emphasizing quality care and personalized experiences, maximizing patient retention, and transforming PPO plan resignations.
Gary and Naren delve into the busyness-productivity dichotomy, exposing the deceptive nature of our obsession with busyness. Sharing personal experiences, they emphasize intentionality and focus for optimal results. They also explore the financial dangers of an unproductive dental practice, emphasizing hygiene, patient retention, and productivity's impact on profitability.
Join Gary and Naren in this episode as they tackle the pressing issue of dentists' dissatisfaction with PPO providers and escalating costs. Discover the rising popularity of a valuable resource for dentists seeking ways to reduce insurance dependence and navigate these challenging times in the dental industry.
Uncover the key to dental marketing success in this captivating podcast episode. Gary and Naren unveil three potent website additions that entice and convert prospective patients. Gain invaluable insights from Dr. Cialdini's expertise in the science of influence and dominate the market by mastering Google's organic search strategies.
Join us as we delve into the intricacies of managing a dental practice and explore the impact of hygiene services on PPO fees. We analyze dental practices' financial challenges in high-cost states like California and question the viability of providing hygiene services within specific PPO plans. Discover the advantages of a hygiene-driven practice and the importance of regular appointments for maintaining oral health while addressing financial realities. Inspired by a conversation with a California dental practice owner, we shed light on the complexities of balancing patient care and financial considerations in the evolving healthcare industry.
Discover how to master Google reviews in this episode and dominate your dental practice's search results. Learn the importance of the character of reviews and how they can influence SEO. Gary challenges you to become the dental practice with the most Google reviews in your community and shares success stories of those who have achieved this. Plus, hear how online reviews have transformed consumer decision-making and how leveraging patients' voices can build trust and attract new patients.
In this episode, Gary and Naren discuss six habits for dentists and their teams to thrive, including complimenting team members and setting goals. This episode offers practical advice for personal and professional development. Tune in now!
In this episode, Gary and Naren explore the challenges of high demand for dental services in a PPO plan and how dental practices can manage demand while maintaining positive patient relationships. With insightful comparisons to the restaurant industry, the episode emphasizes the importance of balancing practice and patient needs. Tune in for expert insights.
Dental coach Gary shares his expertise on avoiding common mistakes when resigning from PPO plans. With experience helping over 400 practices navigate the process, he emphasizes the importance of face-to-face communication with patients and highlights two more key mistakes to avoid. Tune in to learn more.
In this episode, Gary and Naren discuss the drawbacks of PPO dental plans and advocate for using Google as an alternative source for new patients. They explain how PPO plans come at a high cost for providers and highlight the benefits of relying on Google for patient acquisition. Gary emphasizes the importance of knowing what you're writing off and provides an insurance write-off calculator to help providers estimate their losses.
Gary and Naren discuss the possibility of successfully resigning from PPO plans by the end of the year in this podcast episode. They highlight a growing movement of dentists who are tired of the administrative burden and lowering fees of PPO plans. The hosts share encouraging case studies and examples of how reducing insurance dependence can significantly improve dental practices. They also discuss the benefits of going fee for service and explain how reducing insurance dependence within a year is achievable.
In this episode, Gary and Naren discuss the benefits of using membership plans to attract new dental patients without insurance. They explain the limitations of insurance plans, reveal the untapped market for dentists, and share tips for attracting patients through membership plans.
In this episode, Gary and Naren share insights on how dental practices can attract super fans and reduce insurance plan dependence. Discover how to emulate Apple's strategy of creating fans instead of customers and learn about a community service project of making NFL-quality mouthguards for local high school football teams. Find out how this project can benefit your practice and create a sense of community involvement. Tune in now to learn more!
In this episode, Gary and Naren discuss the common issue dental practices face when collecting payments at the time of service.
They highlight the challenge of dealing with insurance companies that send reimbursement checks directly to patients, making it harder for dental practices to obtain payment.
To address this issue, they provide practical tips on reducing reliance on PPO plans and communicating the importance of patients paying upfront. They emphasize the importance of improving cash flow and reducing dependence on PPO plans.
In this episode, Gary and Naren share valuable insights on how dentists can successfully resign from PPO plans. They stress the importance of being fully prepared, building and maintaining relationships, and understanding patients' personal information, interests, and hobbies. Gary suggests practical strategies such as using digital note cards and doing homework to achieve a successful outcome. Listen now to discover how being fully prepared daily can significantly impact your life.
In this episode, Gary and Naren offer valuable expertise and experience for dental practice owners considering resigning from PPO plans. They explore the risks involved in such a decision and provide essential qualifications for Delta Premier members considering resigning from PPO plans. The conversation is helpful for any dental practice owner looking to make a change and offers insights into decision-making and essential considerations for making such a transition.
Learn critical strategies for dental practices to find and keep emergency patients by leveraging Google. Gary and Naren share how to identify search terms, create original content, and develop a strong backlink profile to become part of the top 5% dental practices that attract 95% of emergency patients in your area. Grow your practice and build a loyal patient base with this episode.
In this episode, Gary and Naren discuss the importance of adding same-day dentistry to your practice. They share their tips on how you can help your practice grow using the same team and the same hours.
It's a common problem for most people who want to create a dental website. They need a more precise concept of how to get ranked on Google. Listen to this podcast episode to learn how to build a dental website and rank your site in google with our tips.
Not everyone can be a dentist, but every dentist can be successful. With the tips and tricks in this episode, you'll be able to turn your practice around to reach a $100,000 annual income!
Learn how to set yourself up for success with this insightful episode of Naren and Gary's Entrepreneurial Bootcamp. Listen for simple yet powerful advice from two entrepreneurs who've seen it all!
When you want to test your practice's PPO plans, the best way to do it is to resign from PPO plans. Gary will explain why this is important and how you can successfully resign from PPO plans at your practice.
Have you ever used or are you planning to use Google Ads and Pay Per Click to market your dental practice? Well, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah understand why they are a waste of money, and they share the reason in this episode!
Scared of losing a lot of patients once you drop PPO plans? Well, using a video may be the solution to keep as many existing in-network patients as possible! In this episode, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah talk about how video can be used as a resource to successfully drop PPO plans.
Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah discuss 3 strategies Maverick Dentists use to achieve personal, professional, and financial satisfaction. Find out whether you are a Maverick Dentist by listening to this episode!
Rapport = Know, Like, Trust. Your new patients get to know you, like you, and trust you when you make an effort to improve rapport. Tune into this episode to find out a great way to quickly develop rapport with Your New Patients!
If you are a listener from Massachusetts, you may already know about the Ballot Measure. However, if you listen to this episode out of Massachusetts, you likely do not know about it.
Listen to this episode to find out the outcome of the Massachusetts Question 2 Ballot Measure!
In this episode, Naren and Gary discuss the importance of measuring the practice call conversion rate and the grading system that will enable you to figure out your practice situation. They also share how to measure the call conversion rate.
Did you know that Ekwa Marketing provides the required support to increase the call conversion rate of your practice?
They not only track your call conversion rate but also monitor the calls under HIPAA compliance and provide information on what needs to be done to improve your practice call conversion rate every month.
If you’re interested to learn more about how this would work in your practice, book a Free Marketing Strategy Meeting here: www.lessinsurancedependence.com/marketing-strategy-meeting/
In this episode, Gary and Naren discuss 5 specific things that we could all learn from the 2022 Annual RIDA Summit.
Listen to find out insight that will help you get a better understanding of how the reducing insurance dependency process works in the current dental world!
We would encourage you to schedule a free marketing strategy meeting with Ekwa Marketing to find out what exactly you should do to attract more patients: https://www.lessinsurancedependence.com/marketing-strategy-meeting/
In this episode, Gary and Naren discuss the answer to this episode title question, share the most powerful tool that will allow you to attract the right associate, and how to avoid potential problems you will have to deal with by hiring the wrong associate dentist.
Did you know that the #1 reason why associateships fail is that the practice is not busy enough to support the senior doctor and the associate?
You can be proactive and solve this through marketing!
If you want to learn how to Master marketing in 2022 and beyond, schedule a Free Marketing Strategy Meeting with Ekwa: www.lessinsurancedependence.com/marketing-strategy-meeting/
Your dental practice needs to be relationship-driven if you want to reduce insurance dependency successfully, and this is something that your new team members may not be aware of. Tune into this episode to learn how to get new team members on board when resigning from PPO plans!
Listen to this episode and learn how to transform your existing patients into ambassadors!
If you want to learn more about how digital marketing would work for your practice, schedule a Free Marketing Strategy Meeting with Ekwa Marketing: www.lessinsurancedependence.com/mastering-dental-marketing/
In this episode, Naren and Gary discuss the 2 activities that you should do to continuously grow your new patients, data behind potential patient referrals, the concept of ambassadors, and how you can make your practice referrals positively impact your practice growth.
Listen to this episode and learn how to transform your existing patients into ambassadors!
If you want to learn more about how digital marketing would work for your practice, schedule a Free Marketing Strategy Meeting with Ekwa Marketing: www.lessinsurancedependence.com/mastering-dental-marketing/
In this episode, Gary and Naren discuss an option in response to the fact that dentists cannot have the 'Heads up conversation' with all their patients.
When you make use of this option, you can help your patients understand how your decision will positively impact them.
Want to learn how to reduce your practice overhead to 60% or less? Register for the 3-hour Masterclass to do precisely that by visiting: www.lessinsurancedependence.com/masterclass/
Listen to this episode as Gary and Naren discuss the phrase that you should stop using in your practice, why the phrase is bad for your practice, and how to come up with a new language to replace this phrase!
Want to learn how to reduce your practice overhead to 60% or less? Register for the 3-hour Masterclass to do precisely that by visiting: www.lessinsurancedependence.com/masterclass/
Even if it's unfair, PPO plans have commoditized dentistry.
Have you noticed that your costs as a provider are going through the roof, and your fees are ridiculously low!?
Tune into this episode to find out how PPOs are cutting fees!
You can register for the upcoming Masterclass to learn tips to reduce your practice overhead.
In this episode, Gary and Naren share whether or not it is possible to stop accepting new Delta patients when you're dropping Delta entirely and the safest way to deal with new Delta patients!
In this episode, Gary and Naren discuss the message that would encourage your practice patients to quickly set up dental appointments and get the necessary dental treatments!
Learn more about the upcoming Masterclass: https://bit.ly/3R3ToxW
Schedule a Free Marketing Strategy Meeting: https://bit.ly/3P558Ac
Through this episode, Naren and Gary want to share tips to help you identify your patients' personality types and how to use the best communication method to make them understand the PPO dropping process. Listen to this episode to get to know Patient Communication Tips when Dropping PPO Plans.
Learn more about the Masterclass: https://bit.ly/3R3ToxW
Schedule a Free Marketing Strategy Meeting: https://bit.ly/3P558Ac
Each of these 5 things will strengthen your practice; put them together, and you've got all kinds of positive momentum going.
In this episode, Naren and Gary discuss 5 practical things you could do right NOW that will help your practice drop PPO plans successfully.
Learn more about the Masterclass: https://bit.ly/3R3ToxW
Schedule a Free Marketing Strategy Meeting: https://bit.ly/3P558Ac
In this episode, Gary and Naren discuss the most effective detail that will increase your case acceptance and how to use the detail in your practice!
If you want Gary's help to drop PPO plans, schedule a free Coaching Strategy Meeting with him here: https://bit.ly/3vpSeUN
Schedule a Free Marketing Strategy Meeting: https://bit.ly/3P558Ac
Learn more about the MBA Workshop: https://bit.ly/3QnYHcA
As a dentist or practice owner, are you starting to feel the pressure of inflation and how the insurance companies reduce or control your fees?
Dentists are becoming impatient with insurance companies and want to drop the PPO plans.
In this week's episode, Gary and Naren discuss when you could successfully resign from PPO plans!
If you want Gary's help to drop PPO plans, schedule a free Coaching Strategy Meeting with him here: https://bit.ly/3vpSeUN
Schedule a Free Marketing Strategy Meeting: https://bit.ly/3P558Ac
Learn more about the MBA Workshop: https://bit.ly/3QnYHcA
In this episode, Gary and Naren discuss an old-school tip that will help you increase your loyal patients as well as your practice growth!
If you want Gary's help to drop PPO plans, schedule a free Coaching Strategy Meeting with him here: https://bit.ly/3vpSeUN
Schedule a Free Marketing Strategy Meeting: https://bit.ly/3P558Ac
Learn more about the MBA Workshop: https://bit.ly/3QnYHcA
In this episode, Naren and Gary discuss the upcoming November 2022 Massachusetts Ballot Initiative!
If you want Gary's help to drop PPO plans, schedule a free Coaching Strategy Meeting with him here: https://bit.ly/3vpSeUN
Schedule a Free Marketing Strategy Meeting: https://bit.ly/3P558Ac
Learn more about the MBA Workshop: https://bit.ly/3QnYHcA
Gary & Naren discuss Questions #6 to #10 Dentists have when dropping PPO plans! This is the second part of episode #199.
Tune into this episode and find out the answers to some of the questions that are stopping you from taking action to drop PPO plans!
If you want Gary's help to drop PPO plans, schedule a free Coaching Strategy Meeting with him here: https://bit.ly/3vpSeUN
Schedule a Free Marketing Strategy Meeting: https://bit.ly/3P558Ac
Learn more about the MBA Workshop: https://bit.ly/3QnYHcA
Listen to the special 200th episode with Dr. Daniel Alleman to get to know how he successfully resigned from Delta!
Schedule a Free Marketing Strategy Meeting: https://bit.ly/3P558Ac
Register for the 3-Hour CE Masterclass: https://bit.ly/3PaLp1A
Listen to Gary and Naren answer the 5 most common questions asked by dentists when dropping out of PPO plans. You might have one of these questions, so get your doubts clarified now!
Schedule a Free Marketing Strategy Meeting: https://bit.ly/3P558Ac
Register for the 3-Hour CE Masterclass: https://bit.ly/3PaLp1A
Achieving your daily goals will indeed help you make your dream practice a reality! In this episode, Naren and Gary talk about ideal practice goals, ways to make your practice focus on providing the best possible dental care to your patients, and how to exceed your daily goals!
Schedule a Free Marketing Strategy Meeting: https://bit.ly/3P558Ac
Register for the 3-Hour CE Masterclass: https://bit.ly/3PaLp1A
In this episode, Gary and Naren discuss and compare your options regarding the time to drop PPOs when you’re adding an associate.
Schedule a Free Marketing Strategy Meeting: https://bit.ly/3P558Ac
Register for the Thriving Dentist Masterclass: https://bit.ly/3PaLp1A
In this episode, Gary and Naren discuss the most common Marketing Mistakes You Must Avoid in your dental practice.
Schedule a Free Marketing Planning Meeting: https://bit.ly/3P558Ac
Register for the “2.5 Million Dollar Practice Model Is No Longer A Dream” Masterclass: https://bit.ly/3PaLp1A
Frustrated with no-shows and cancellations in your dental practice? You will learn how to train your patients to keep their appointments by listening to this episode! Gary shares a method he teaches his coaching clients, and it has worked time and time again!
Join the 3-Hour CE Masterclass to learn a 2.5 Million Dollar Practice Model: https://bit.ly/3nrGNbH
Book a free Marketing Planning Meeting to increase your new patients: https://bit.ly/3NA9QnY
You will not only find out the answer to the title of this episode, but you will also learn a method that will help you deal with any changes to the usual process and your patients' reaction to such changes by listening to this episode!
Join the 3-Hour CE Masterclass to achieve work-life balance and learn a 2.5 Million Dollar Practice Model: https://bit.ly/3nrGNbH
Book a free Marketing Planning Meeting to create a new source of patients right away: https://bit.ly/3NA9QnY
In this episode, Gary and Naren discuss the change in your income when you decide to drop PPO plans.
Schedule a Free Marketing Strategy Meeting: https://bit.ly/3QqgcsI
Register for Gary’s Masterclass Workshop: https://bit.ly/3y6PWwp
In this episode, Gary and Naren discuss why it’s important to embrace the abundance mindset and not fall into the downward funnel of scarcity!
Schedule a Free Marketing Strategy Meeting: https://bit.ly/3QqgcsI
Register for Gary’s Masterclass Workshop: https://bit.ly/3NXe22g
In this episode, Gary and Naren discuss 4 things you must know to successfully drop PPO plans!
Schedule a Free Marketing Strategy Meeting: https://bit.ly/37w6vY8
Register for the Thriving Dentist MBA Workshop:https://bit.ly/3MiAbqt
In this episode, Gary and Naren discuss the importance of thoroughly understanding your PPO contract!
Schedule a Free Marketing Strategy Meeting: https://bit.ly/37w6vY8
Register for the Thriving Dentist MBA Workshop:https://bit.ly/3MiAbqt
In this episode, Gary and Naren discuss the most important talking point you should use when talking to your patients about dropping plans.
Marketing Strategy Meeting with Ekwa: https://bit.ly/LID-ScheduleMSM
In this episode, Gary and Naren discuss the important lessons learned from Dr. Dan Alleman’s Denver CO Study Club Presentation. Register for Gary’s Masterclass:
https://bit.ly/LID-MasterClass-RegisterNowSchedule
Free Marketing Strategy Meeting with Ekwa:
https://bit.ly/LID-ScheduleMSM
In this episode, Gary and Naren discuss how you can leverage the moment with your patient to build connections by applying Dr. Robert Cialdini’s 6 principles of influence.
Register for Gary’s Masterclass: https://bit.ly/LID-MasterClass-RegisterNow
Schedule Free Marketing Strategy Meeting with Ekwa: https://bit.ly/LID-ScheduleMSM
In this episode, Gary and Naren discuss how being part of PPO plans impacts your ability to help the charity of your choice!
Register for Gary’s Masterclass: https://bit.ly/LID-MasterClass-RegisterNow
Schedule Free Marketing Strategy Meeting with Ekwa: https://bit.ly/LID-ScheduleMSM
In this episode, Gary and Naren discuss how the tide is shifting in hiring quality team members for your practice. Gary sends a hopeful message to dentists who are taking down their ads!
Register for Gary’s Masterclass: https://bit.ly/LID-MasterClass-RegisterNow
Schedule Free Marketing Strategy Meeting with Ekwa: https://bit.ly/LID-ScheduleMSM
In this episode, Gary and Naren discuss the importance of building connections with your patients and provide tips for successfully building a rapport with them!
Register for Gary’s Masterclass: https://bit.ly/LID-MasterClass-RegisterNow
Schedule Free Marketing Strategy Meeting with Ekwa: https://bit.ly/LID-ScheduleMSM
In this episode, Gary and Naren discuss how to successfully convert potential new patient calls into scheduled new appointments and 5 phrases that could help you achieve it!
Register for Gary’s Masterclass: https://bit.ly/LID-MasterClass-RegisterNow
Schedule Free Marketing Strategy Meeting with Ekwa: https://bit.ly/LID-ScheduleMSM
In this episode, Gary and Naren address how elevating the relationship-driven element of your practice eliminates your patient’s subconsciously developed fight-and-flight response! Register for Gary’s Masterclass: https://bit.ly/LID-MasterClass-RegisterNow
Schedule Free Marketing Strategy Meeting with Ekwa: https://bit.ly/LID-ScheduleMSM
In this episode, Gary and Naren address how the PPO environment constrains dentists from living their dreams and provides advice on how to resolve it!
Register for Gary’s Masterclass: https://bit.ly/MasterclassRegistration-LID
Schedule Free Marketing Strategy Meeting with Ekwa: https://bit.ly/LID-MSM-BookMeeting
In this episode, Gary and Naren discuss how to mitigate “FEAR,” the number one reason which makes dentists unsure about leaving the PPO network.
Register for the 9-Hour CE MBA Workshop: https://bit.ly/RegisterMBA-LID
Register for the Gary’s Masterclass: https://bit.ly/RegisterMasterClass-LID
Schedule Free Marketing Strategy Meeting with Ekwa: https://bit.ly/MSMScheduler-LID
In this episode, Gary and Naren discuss the importance of your patient's impressions about your practice and how an Office Tour helps achieve this! Register for the 9-Hour CE MBA Workshop: https://bit.ly/MBA-March-LID
Schedule Free Marketing Strategy Meeting with Ekwa: https://bit.ly/LID-MSM-EKWA
One of the hide-and-seek games Insurance companies play with the dentists is that they don’t tell the dentists the maximum fees they can schedule. So how would you know if your fees are set below the maximum allowed level?
In this episode, Gary and Naren discuss the answer to the question Can I Raise My Fees on PPO Plans? and the resources which can help you with this!
Register for the 9-Hour CE MBA Workshop: https://bit.ly/LIDEpisode178-MBA
Schedule Free Marketing Strategy Meeting with Ekwa: https://bit.ly/LIDEpisode178-MSM
In general, PPO adjustments are not written-off as an expense. In this episode, Gary discusses why insurance adjustments should be written off as a marketing expense, the importance of dentists being aware of how much they spend on insurance plans, and provides valuable tips on mastering the power of digital marketing to replace this expense.
Register for the Thriving Dentist MBA Live Stream Workshop: https://bit.ly/LID-MBA
Grow your practice with a FREE marketing strategy meeting: https://bit.ly/MSM-LID
Calculate your Insurance write off: https://bit.ly/PPOCal
When you are in the process of dropping PPO plans, the larger your patient base is, the stronger your practice is! Hence when you re-activate your past-due hygiene patients, you are also building your patient base. In this episode, Gary discusses why it’s essential to re-activate these past-due hygiene patients and how dentists can utilize technology to achieve this. Register for the Thriving Dentist MBA Live Stream Workshop: https://bit.ly/MBA-TD-March
Become a RIDA Member: https://bit.ly/RIDA-LID
Do you have questions about dropping PPO Plans? If the answer is yes, this is a must-listen episode as Gary answers the most common questions dentists have about dropping PPO plans!
Register for the 9-Hour CE MBA Workshop: https://bit.ly/TD-MBA-MARCH
Learn more about Gary’s Practice Coaching Program: https://bit.ly/CoachingProgram-LID
Schedule Free Marketing Strategy Meeting with Ekwa: https://bit.ly/LID-MSM
We are now experiencing an unbelievably high inflation cycle. It has not been this high for the last 39 years! So with this cycle, as a dentist, do you think it's a good idea to raise your fees or not? In this episode, Gary and Naren discuss inflation and whether you should raise your fees. Give it a listen to find out the answer!
3-Hour CE Masterclass to reduce your overhead to 60% or less: https://bit.ly/3Jk3PdB
Learn more about Gary’s Practice Coaching Program: https://bit.ly/3gBLjAR
Schedule Free Marketing Strategy Meeting with Ekwa: https://bit.ly/3uCNtZb
Do you want to create a win-win situation for your dental practice and the small businesses in your community? Then consider offering your practice in-office membership plan to small businesses! Learn more about this by listening to this episode.
Register for the 3-Hour Masterclass: https://bit.ly/3rmWgMY
Learn more about Gary Takac's practice coaching program: https://bit.ly/3J0Arcc
Grow your practice with a FREE marketing strategy meeting: https://bit.ly/3gm6bfA
Do you attract too many patients with 'Insurance-based mindsets'? It is when patients say, "I only want to have this done if my insurance covers it." This not only affects the way patients value the service you provide it also affects the enjoyment you find in what you do as a dentist. In this episode, Gary and Naren discuss the Dilemma of Insurance Driven Patients!
Register for the 3-Hour CE Masterclass: https://bit.ly/3nRoxca
Learn more about Gary Takac’s practice coaching: https://bit.ly/3GVW0d3
Schedule Free Dental Marketing Strategy Meeting: https://bit.ly/3rFVxWd
Nowadays, the number of patients who have dental insurance is decreasing. You can turn this trend into an opportunity to reduce insurance dependence in your practice and get patients for life! In this episode, Gary and Naren talk about the practice in-office membership plan and how to grow it. Listen now!
Register for the 3-Hour CE Masterclass: https://bit.ly/3KuozAL
You need the team's support to achieve the practice goals. The team can give their 100% support if they are focused on the right things to achieve the practice goals. Hence, in this episode, Gary and Naren discuss 3 types of team meetings that will help you calibrate their focus!
Register for the 3-Hour CE Masterclass: https://bit.ly/3qloWFr
Have you been guilty of looking at busyness as always a good thing? And, if so, it is important to start changing your perspective and mindset! Gary and Naren discuss the busyness paradox and 3 actionable ways to shift away from the busyness paradox. Listen now!
Register for the 3-Hour Masterclass: https://bit.ly/3331xzo
Is your dental practice scope right? Gary and Naren shine a new light on the right scope of the dental practice and ways for you to determine a suitable one. Remember, the scope of your practice is not static, and it can change over time. Listen to learn more!
Register for the upcoming Masterclass: https://bit.ly/3zaLMCz
Get Digital Marketing Support from EKWA: https://bit.ly/32qyA0I
Do you know what your fees should be? Have you raised them to an ideal amount? In New Jersey, dentists who have signed up with Delta have not changed their fees since 2009! In a world where inflation has increased the prices of all the industries, this isn't fair for dentists. Learn more about this by listening to this episode!
REGISTER FOR THE 3-HOUR CE MASTERCLASS: https://bit.ly/3nsLWQ7
RIDA Summit was all about putting texture details around successfully resigning from PPO plans! Naren and Gary talk about the takeaways of the Summit in this episode. Whether you were a participant of the RIDA Summit or not, you will find the episode helpful to drop PPO plans!
Is your team on board with your practice goals? Even if you want to go out of network, your team may not support you right away. But, with the right approach, you can get them to support you! Listen to this episode to learn 4 tips to get your team on board!
Owning a dental practice makes you an entrepreneur. To be successful, you need to have control over the practice fees. If your fees are too high, patients will not come to you. If your fees are too low, you won’t be earning what you deserve. By listening to this episode, you will learn the best way to set your fees!
3-Hour CE Masterclass to grow your practice by 10% -
https://bit.ly/3nsLWQ7
Your patients tend to forget one important thing about their dental insurance. As their dentist, you already know what it is, and it’s your responsibility to remind them that One Important detail. Learn what that One Important thing by listening to this episode, as Naren and Gary discuss how to communicate it to your patients.
3-Hour CE MASTERCLASS: Grow Your Practice 10% Every Year: https://bit.ly/3nsLWQ7
Nothing is more terrible than activity without insight. The vast majority of dentists participate with PPO plans. But there's a hidden insight on PPO participation that dentists are not aware of. In this episode, Gary shares that insight. You will find this episode helpful because of how profound the insight is!
GROW YOUR PRACTICE BY 10% EVERY YEAR: https://bit.ly/3nsLWQ7
Want to resign from PPO plans yet not sure of what you need to achieve your goal? Well, Gary and Naren have you covered! Dentists hesitate to resign from PPO plans because they fear losing patients. By listening to this episode, you will learn the resources you need to successfully drop PPO plans and keep existing patients as much as possible!
Register for the MBA Workshop: https://bit.ly/36z0Dtg
Schedule free Marketing Strategy Meeting: https://bit.ly/3BPYQOE
Insurance companies are taking advantage of dentists. Dentists often ask Gary Takacs whether it is the right time to drop PPO plans and how long the process will take. Dentists are eager to drop PPO plans. Hence, in this episode, Gary and Naren discuss the details about timing. If you, too, are a dentist eager to drop PPOs’ be sure to give this episode a listen!
Create your practice Marketing Plan for FREE: https://bit.ly/3BPYQOE
There are 6 principles of persuasion, and if you use them effectively, you create ‘moments’ in your dental practice. During these moments, patients are three times more likely to say yes to whatever you are attempting to persuade them with. Listen to this insightful episode as Gary and Naren explain how to leverage the moment to grow your ideal practice!
Persuade your patients with Ekwa: https://bit.ly/3BPYQOE
You know that treating fee-for-service patients are better. So, can you stop seeing in-network patients while being a PPO practice?
In this episode, you will get to know the answer! Listen to Gary and Naren discuss the answer and an effective method to treat more fee-for-service patients in your practice.
Register for the MBA: https://bit.ly/36z0Dtg
Do you believe that hygiene is a loss creator in your practice? Well, in today's episode, you will learn how to make it the practice driver! Because the truth is, the more activity you have in hygiene, the better it is for the practice production. Learn all about it by listening to this episode!
Register for the Masterclass: https://bit.ly/3nsLWQ7
Want to increase the dental practice profitability? Then control the practice’s biggest expense category! In this episode, Gary and Naren discuss the dental practice’s biggest expense category and practical tips to control this expense category. Listen and increase the profitability of your practice!
Gary introduced 6 steps to go out of network successfully. Of course, it's important to complete all these steps to reduce insurance dependency. However, as dentists often ask which step is the most important, Gary shares it in this episode. So, if you're working on reducing insurance dependence, listen to this episode!
Register for the MBA: https://bit.ly/36z0Dtg
Schedule Free Marketing Strategy Meeting: https://bit.ly/3BPYQOE
Patients can easily replace insurance plans. But, they cannot replace the relationship they have with the dentist. Therefore, improving your practice's relationship-driven element is the best way for you to keep your existing in-network patients even after going out-of-network. Listen to this episode and transform your dental practice's loyal patients percentage!
Do you ever wonder about how to remain insurance-friendly in the process of going out of network? This is a great way to keep an ideal percentage of your existing in-network patients as well. In this episode, Gary shares the End of the Year Insurance Letter which will help you create a win-win situation for yourself and your patients!
Register for the 2.5 Million Dollar Masterclass: https://bit.ly/3nsLWQ7
Lower Your Marketing expense with Ekwa: https://bit.ly/3BPYQOE
Practice Coaching with Gary Takacs: https://bit.ly/3bfp6Xd
We all know that the practice overhead cost has increased after the pandemic due to increased PPE cost. As a result, practice profitability and the ability to cover the overhead cost have become lower. With this reality, insurance companies have now started lowering their contracted fees as predicted. Listen to this episode to find out how they did it and what you can do about it!
Register for the 2.5 Million Dollar Masterclass: https://bit.ly/3nsLWQ7
Lower Your Marketing expense with Ekwa: https://bit.ly/3BPYQOE
Join the RIDA Summit: https://bit.ly/2WkO8zF
Practice Coaching with Gary Takacs: https://bit.ly/3bfp6Xd
Have you ever been on the receiving end of an absolutely crazy sales pitch? Where you go, "No, no, no" inside your head while listening to it! Well, in this episode, Gary and Naren talk about a CRAZY sales pitch no dentist would ever fall for. So listen and find out what it really is!
Schedule FREE Marketing Strategy Meeting: https://bit.ly/3BPYQOE
Find out your insurance write-off: https://bit.ly/3Cc6q6t
Become a RIDA Member: https://bit.ly/2PtDDqB
Join the RIDA Summit: https://bit.ly/2WkO8zF
Humans tend to dislike sudden changes. If you don’t do it right, your patients would also dislike your decision to go out of network. Yikes! However, with proper communication, your patients will support and love your decision! Gary shares how to use the correct communicating methods in this episode. Listen and make your patients root for you!
Create Marketing Strategy for FREE: https://bit.ly/3BPYQOE
Learn more about Gary’s Coaching: https://bit.ly/3bfp6Xd
Register for the RIDA Summit: https://bit.ly/2WkO8zF
Dentists who want to go out of network have a shadow of doubt clouding their minds. However, the ultimate meeting is a confidence builder! You will learn what it is, how to do it, and how to utilize the meeting to create the future of your dental practice; give this episode a listen!
Schedule free marketing strategy meeting: https://bit.ly/3BPYQOE
Join the LIVE MBA workshop: https://bit.ly/3iDd65U
Your patients are used to a particular way of making payments for their treatments. However, once you resign from PPO plans, the insurance companies will make changes; in most cases, they start sending the cheques to the patients instead of you. This is not popular among your patients. In this episode, Gary shares a method to handle patient payments once you Drop PPOs proactively.
Register for the Masterclass & reduce your practice overhead: https://bit.ly/3nsLWQ7
Schedule Coaching Strategy Meeting: https://bit.ly/3wcxNtx
Today, Gary Takacs answers a question all dentists considering becoming FFS have. This is a fair question; everyone feels like they have to go all the way to succeed. But does this apply to the journey of reducing insurance dependency in your practice? Gary Takacs explains true "success" and tips to make your journey successful. Listen to find out!
Register for the Masterclass & reduce practice overhead: https://bit.ly/3nsLWQ7
Schedule free marketing strategy meeting: https://bit.ly/3BPYQOE
Find out your insurance adjustments: https://bit.ly/3Cc6q6t
Huddle or muddle: the choice is yours. In this episode, you will learn a method to apply your strategy every day in your practice. Gary Takacs highlights how all world-class practices have a morning huddle, and you too can transform your practice by doing the same. Listen to this episode and find out how to effectively do this in your practice!
Register for the Masterclass: https://bit.ly/3nsLWQ7
Dental Marketing: https://bit.ly/3BPYQOE
Newsflash! Dental insurance companies do not care about the dentist nor patients. In this eye-opening episode, Gary Takacs shares three nightmare stories that'll punctuate it. Listen and find out how not to make any of these stories your story!
Register for the Masterclass: https://bit.ly/3nsLWQ7
Practice coaching with Gary Takacs: https://bit.ly/3bfp6Xd
Today, Gary Takacs discusses very practical & simple tips; you don't have to complicate them. They are more than enough to increase the case acceptance rate of every one of your adult patients. You will be blown away by how these photo tips will change your case mix! Patients will express interest in treatments that you had no idea that they had any interest in. Listen to accelerate your case acceptance!
Register for the MBA workshop: https://bit.ly/36z0Dtg
Practice coaching with Gary Takacs: https://bit.ly/3bfp6Xd
Camera recommended by Gary Takacs: https://www.photomed.net/sx740.htm
The history of practice overhead is that it continues to rise, ever eating into the practice's profitability. If your current overhead is 74% or higher, you're literally working too hard for little! This week we discuss the solution to this long-standing problem.
When it comes to attracting new patients, we think the "Mouthguard Project" is a grand slam for every practice that has done it. This week we talk about how you can implement this winning strategy in your local community and reap the awesome benefits!
Episode show notes: https://bit.ly/3dyEyii
Mouthguard Course Giveaway: https://bit.ly/3qFCQ47
Every practice has a segment of its patient base that doesn't have insurance. Often it's a very small segment. On average, 85% of dental practice patients come from PPO plans. In the context of this episode, we can apply Robert Cialdini's concept of leveraging the moment with the help of six fundamental principles of influence. Gary Takacs explains how to use this concept to ask for patients' referrals and make it three times more likely for them to say yes to your request. Listen and leverage the moment with your patients to increase patient referrals!
- Intro to today’s topic > 00:01:03
- Quick announcement > 00:01:18
- A familiar saying > 00:03:30
- Usual data points > 00:04:30
- Leveraging the moment > 00:05:50
Resources REGISTER FOR THE MBA WORKSHOP NOW
GET RID OF PPO PLANS!
FIND OUT YOUR INSURANCE ADJUSTMENTS
SCHEDULE YOUR FREE MARKETING STRATEGY MEETING
Transcript Naren: Welcome to another episode of the less insurance dependence podcast show. The official podcast of the reducing insurance dependence academy rid dot academy. Today's topic is the importance of patient referrals when dropping PPO plans, the importance of patient referrals when dropping PPO plans. This is Naren, your co-host. Before we jump into the episode, I have a quick announcement to make. We have an MBA coming up a three-part MBA workshop coming up, the ten elements of a thriving practice on July 27th, 28th, and 29th, 9 hours of CE, 7 to 10 pm on the 27th, 28th, and 29th of July, and you're going to learn the ten elements the 24 systems and most importantly Gary is going to help you with the help of 11 exercises learn how to apply this in your practice. So, if there are still seats available, the link is thrivingdentist.com forward slash MBA. Sign up, and I look forward to seeing you there. Now Gary, let's jump into today's topic; and this is a wonderful topic because as we are recording it right before this call, we had a wonderful conversation with a mutual client of ours and, and we talked about referrals. So, I'm really excited to talk about this topic, Gary.
Gary: Yeah, Naren, it's very timely because of that conversation we just had, and the best way for our listeners to think about this is a saying that most people are familiar with, and the saying goes like this, birds of a feather flock together. Now Naren, is that a, a, saying you've heard in Canada?
Naren: yeah, I heard it growing up; I remember my mother telling me this somebody telling me this when I was a kid
Gary: my grandmother taught me that saying, and you know, growing up in Cleveland, Ohio, my grandmother taught me that. She said birds of a feather flock together. The context that my grandmother used, you know, the older I get, the smarter I realized my grandmother was now she's been gone for many years, but she still plays an influence in my life for sure, but the context my grandmother used was Gary choose your friends wisely.
Naren: right
Gary: hang out with good people. So, birds of a feather flock together. So now, let's extend that to the context of this podcast and our listener's interest, which is successfully dropping PPO plans. Now every practice has a segment of their patient base that doesn't have insurance, that doesn't have insurance. Now often it's, it's, very it's a small sliver. You know Naren when we've, we've been doing this in our webinars recently, where we do our, our, insurance write-off calculator and we tell our audience that if you don't know what you're writing off, we have a program a computer program that can figure that out for you. It's called our insurance write-off calculator, and doctors will enter the information in, and then the program does its work to be able to tell doctors how much they're actually writing off and one of the calculations that it figures is what percentage of the practice has PPO plans, what percentage of the practice, and what do we usually see Naren, what is the trend line that we normally see when we're looking at you know dozens and dozens and hundreds of, of, those data points. We usually see that a very high
Naren: yes
Gary: percentage of the practice has PPO plans
Naren: yeah, I think we typically see like 80 percent is like the average. So, it's around 70 to 90 percent we said that's the range we see
Gary: you know 75 percent, 78 percent, 84 percent, I think the most we've seen is 92 percent.
Naren: right
Gary: but rarely do we see that number being a small percentage of patients, rarely do we see it, you know, 25 percent. We rarely see and, and, if you think about it, it makes perfect sense because if the number one way you're getting new patients is by being listed on the PPO plans, that's going to create a disproportionate source of new patients for your practice and, and, that's why it becomes such a high number over time. If you've been a PPO office for a while, that number keeps creeping up. You know, in my own practice, when we started going out of network, it was 85 percent, it was 85 percent, and it really gives you the perspective that can I even do this when so much of my patient base, you know our PPO plans can I even do this, and we've talked about that we've addressed that in past issues but, but let's go to the topic here. Let's say 85 percent of your patient basis is PPO means that that 15 percent doesn't have insurance, and so we're going to in terms of we're going to use a Robert Cialdini concept, and the Robert Cialdini concept is to leverage the moment. You know Robert Cialdini talks about Doctor Cialdini talks about the six fundamental principles of influence, and if you haven't read his book or listened to his book influence and then done the follow-up, which is pre-suasion, the book pre-suasion, run don't walk, and listen to those books read those books if you're a reader and you'll know a lot more about marketing than you knew before you read those books, but he's got six fundamental principles of influence, and his point is that when you recognize those principles of influence, and you leverage the moment, you're three times more likely to, to, receive a favorable response from your patient. So, in the context of dentistry, when you leverage the moment, you're three times more likely for the patient to say yes, whatever it is we're asking them for
Naren: Absolutely
Gary: if we're asking them to schedule an appointment when you're leveraging the moment, you're three times more likely for them to say, of course, yes. If we're asking them to write a google review, when we're leveraging the moment, it's three times more likely for the patient to, to, literally you know, write that review, and now in the context of asking for a referral, the same thing applies. They're three times more likely. Think how powerful that is?
Naren: yeah, so what you're saying is the moment when the patient is feeling appreciative of grateful love the moment the patient is feeling positive about your practice. That's the moment we need to tap into and ask them.
Gary: Yeah, absolutely, you know when they are feeling part of your practice, when they're feeling like the top of the world like I have chosen the best dental office on the planet, you know that's when you want to leverage the moment. It sounds kind of obvious, but yes, that's exactly what that's about; you know, frankly, the six fundamental principles of influence are actually very obvious when you know it.
Naren: right, for example, you gave me a shot, and I didn't feel it. I'm like, man, I'm so glad I come here because I hear going to the last dentist and, and, they verbalize it you know what this doctor gave me this amazing shot and I couldn't feel it.
Gary: Another example is a lot of times, you know patients are feeling especially happy and at a high point emotionally after you've completed significant treatment.
Naren: yeah
Gary: and they're looking in the mirror, and they're saying, wow man, I the only regret I have is, I didn't do this sooner how come I didn't do this ten years ago oh doctor, you know they're feeling like on cloud nine. So
Naren: sometimes this moment can also be created right, Gary. What I mean is you, you, taught me this. I mean, you learned it from Doctor Omar like when you know enough information about your patients, and you inquire about it. Let's say I love gardening, and then you remember that last time I was there, I was talking about, oh kids, I'm making this up. Hey, how are your kids' plans going? I mean, you're like, wow, this is amazing. Here is a dentist who knows me, who likes me, who gives you who cares about me, and now I'm in cloud nine. So that moment was created.
Gary: you can go on offense or defense on this
Naren: yeah
Gary: defense as we wait for the moments to happen
Naren: right
Gary: And, and, that works, but I'd rather go on offense. I'd rather make these moments happen, so let's put this together in a system, Naren, because it's one thing to kind of have it in your mind and be somewhat aware of it, but in terms of it actually happening as a system, it is much better when we systematize it. A classic example of that Naren is when we decided that we would make even evening week care calls. This goes back to 07 in my practice; by the way, if you're following along and you know the script we converted those evening we care calls to evening we care contacts in 2019, where we now do those by text message we found that there it's, it's, been just as effective and more efficient to do them by text message, but when we made the system up in 2007, I sat down with Paul, and I said let's do this, let's have you make an evening we care to call to any patient on the schedule today that received an injection, any patient received an injection because now it wasn't up to Paul to arbitrarily randomly decide if this patient would appreciate a call or not.
Naren: Right
Gary: simply going to call every patient that got an injection, and we would do that evening we care call. So that's the concept of systematizing because now it's gone from a random activity to a systematized activity that happens on a regular basis, makes all the difference in the world. So here are some pieces of the system that I would suggest in terms of looking for patients to ask for referrals. Have someone show up to your team meeting, one of your team members shows up to your morning huddle with highlighted names of every patient on your schedule today that does not have insurance, that does not have insurance. So, you might be seeing 20 patients. I'll just make up a number. You might be seeing 20 patients, and maybe four of them today don't have insurance. So those are the highlighted names. So, step one, you know, shows up with this list. Step two look at those names and identify any patients who you think would be a good referral source, you know the happy, outgoing gracious, you know the ones that are very appreciative, and maybe if there are four names on the list, there's three of them that oh yeah these would be perfect. So the next step is, determine who's going to ask for the referral because if you have a team of eight and the doctor nine, you don't want nine people asking for a referral. I think that would be harassment, would you agree, Naren?
Naren: yes
Gary: It would certainly be
Naren: Yes
Gary: it would be less effective
Naren: Yes
Gary: if it's done that way, it'll feel artificial and contrived, so identify who's going to ask and usually it comes up organically like you know your Hygienist Kelly might say, oh I'll ask Maria you know we go to the same yoga studio I see her three times a week we're buddies, I'll ask Maria, and if you if it doesn't come up organically if someone doesn't volunteer, one thing I would encourage you to do in your practice is to identify your team member who has the highest I in the disc, they're, they're, outgoing gregarious social they're the ones that are extroverted and, and, have that person on your team ask because that's going to be a natural process for that person. Does that make sense, Naren?
Naren: absolutely, absolutely,
Gary: And then let's talk about what to say and again this has to be done individually, it's not going to be scripted it has to be done relevant to the patient in the example that I gave where Kelly said I'm, I'm, going to ask maria because we go to the same yoga studio, I see her three times a week outside of practice. Kelly can say something like this, maria, I have to tell you, I sure love seeing you on my schedule. When I see you on my schedule, I know I'm going to have an amazing day. Now that has to be genuine. If that's not the sentiment, then come up with something else, and by the way, you're going to share a tip-in just a minute about some other ways we can kind of leverage this, but that might be the way we ask, and then we would say to maria, you know maria I would love to see more people in our practice like you, that would make it amazing to have more people in our practice that are just like you. Now pause for just a second how does maria feel right now, Naren.
Naren: she's in cloud nine she's, she's, feeling appreciated she's feeling you know validated like you know like because as humans today, especially in a world of devices, we don't appreciate people and acknowledge people
Gary: How often does this kind of stuff happen
Naren: exactly
Gary: and now she feels like, oh thank you, Kelly, and then Kelly can make the request, and the request is if you know people that would appreciate how we take care of patients, please recommend our office to them. We will always make room we welcome new patients, Maria, and we'll always make room for friends of yours. They'll be a part of our VIP patient base. Hey, thanks in advance thanks in advance. Now, so we make her feel very special now, you can start to identify people as well, and then I want to flip it over to you to talk about some ways we can make this even more effective; we want to identify some people. Three groups of people that don't have insurance jump to mind. Retirees Naren do you think if we had an audience listener you know on our recording right now and I asked that doctor do you have any retirees in your practice? What do you think every doctor on the planet is going to say
Naren: Absolutely. I mean, I think every single practice, you know, I bet can find many, many, many, retirees in their practice absolutely.
Gary: They can probably think of, you know, 20 names right off the top of their head
Naren: yeah
Gary: so, retirees, remember, you know in the old days when you were retired, your benefits stayed with you, and you had benefits for life. Well, that doesn't happen anymore, so think about retirees as being good candidates—the opposite end of this age spectrum, millennials. Millennials, oftentimes millennials haven't reached the point in their career where they're accorded benefits. They don't have insurance, and then another group gig economy workers are independent contractors' freelancers. They're Uber drivers, Lyft drivers, Airbnb owners, and if we have a relationship-driven practice, we should know what they do for a living, right?
Naren: yeah
Gary: and then a third group would be small business owner's small business owners could be another group to target now Naren talk about how the concept of liking one of the six principles of Robert Cialdini principles of influence talk about how liking can apply here and how our listeners can easily apply that through using social media
Naren: yeah, absolutely, you know I think the world has changed in the sense like we used to have a time I still remember it where we used to send birthday cards. I did this 25 years ago would you know to remember everyone's birthday and I would go to the shop buy a birthday card you know go to the post office mail it. Then it turned into, you know, phone calls where you would wish people on the phone and then now we live in a time in an age where most of us with each other on social media like Facebook because it's convenient it's easy Facebook will even remind you, it's Gary's birthday today. So, things have changed doesn't mean that we don't wish people on birthdays just how we do it has changed just because you know as humans, we like easier, simpler ways of doing things and almost like done for you and Facebook reminds it reminds you, so you don't have to even think about it you don't have to go to the post office you don't have to find the postcard. The same thing is happening here; I think you know in terms of referrals in the old days' referrals were like I remember when I needed something I had a tech guy I had in my phone. I would call him for anything tech. Oh, I'm thinking about this tv I'm thinking about this camera, and he would tell me, and I have a health guy in my pocket, and I call him for health stuff. So, we have we all had somebody we go to because remember 20 years ago Google didn't exist. So that was our way of getting the best information from someone we trusted. Today that's very different, so a lot of the referrals are happening virtually, and let me give you an example. So, let's say I'm an I'm you know I'm a man 45 years old, brown-skinned and I post on my social media, I'm holding a digital sign the digital sign says I love my dentist and my dentist posted it he tagged me now my friends say it now let's say if somebody else who is thinking about getting a dentist, especially if that person is similar to me, maybe in terms of either age may be in terms of gender or maybe in terms of
Gary: And the other example that you use Naren is so perfect in terms of perfect because you're one of those four groups that we identified
Naren: yeah
Gary: you want to do business
Naren: yes
Gary: and so many people on your social media accounts, not all, but many will also be small business owners; why? birds of the feather flock together
Naren: Flock together exactly. They're like my friends are seeing you know want to keep in touch with me, I'll see what I'm up to and yeah absolutely totally, totally, 100 percent agree. So now it's easy I don't even do anything so at that moment so the patient is getting talked about the moment when the patient is feeling grateful appreciate it at that moment one of the things you can ask for is instead of saying can you refer me to somebody you can say hey do you mind if you take a picture patient says absolutely no one absolutely you flip we have a tool called my digital signboards, but you could use anything it could be a physical sign, and the sign could be I love my dentist you know no cavities please you know just fun stuff right you can have different, different, signs and I'm just holding a sign and the team is standing his team member is standing next to me the hygienist and used to have a picture and then what you do is you post it on your social media, and you ask the patient's permission of course, and then you tag the patient. One other thing you can do is start collecting these pictures and put them on your website. You can have a page called happy patients, and that page can have pictures of different people, different skin colors, different age groups different you know, male versus female you know family versus you know individuals. When you when I see someone, who looks like me, I subconsciously believe, you know, going back to that statement birds of a feather flock together, I subconsciously believe I'm going to be happy because someone like me is happy.
Gary: I'm in that club
Naren: yeah, I'm in that club, and a lot of times this is why you know if you don't do this what happens is they will assume you can't help them let's say the doctor is 30 years old I am a 65-year-old female I think you know maybe he won't understand me, but when I see four other 60-year-old females like me I'm like yeah these people like him I'm going to like him. So, it's kind of not only it helps you get new patients through referrals but also it helps you, you, know helps you, you, know help people who otherwise wouldn't have come to come to your practice. So, I think these are great ideas, Gary.
Gary: Yeah, I'm, I'm, loving the context of this episode for sure, and watch what happens when you start leveraging the moment, and you start gaining referrals of other people who don't have insurance. Remember, every time we bring in a new patient who doesn't have insurance, we're not going to hear two questions, are you in my network? They're never going to ask that question because they have no network, and then secondly, they're not going to ask when you make treatment recommendations; they're not going to ask is this covered by my insurance, and all of that leads to a happier practice. Well, as we come to the finish line in this episode, I want to come back full circle to something you mentioned in the opening Naren, and that is the digital association that you and I created called RIDA, R-I-D-A, and it's both a play on words we want to help you get rid of insurance.
Naren: yes
Gary: pardon the grammatical errors there, but we'll help you get rid of the insurance; but it's also an acronym, and it stands for reducing insurance dependence academy. Consider this an invitation to come join our club if you want to be birds of a feather flock together and you want to hang with other dentists and team members that are successfully dropping insurance, come join our association and guess what I think we have a rather compelling financial incentive for you. Your membership is a gift from Naren, and It's free. Come join us, and you can go to www.rid.com. Come join us. We'd love to have you be part of our club birds of a feather flock together. I think you'll enjoy hanging with the members. We've got all kinds of things planned in the future for that academy, that association. It's the first digital association in dentistry. Come join us, and I think that'll help support all the work that you're doing in your practice to successfully reduce insurance dependence. On that note, let me simply say thank you, and I'm going to follow true to the theme of this episode. We talked about referrals. We welcome new listeners here at the less insurance dependence podcast. If you know of a colleague that you think could benefit from our content, please tell them about us. Let them know they can find the podcast on our website unless insurance dependents dot com. They can find it on iTunes, google play, Spotify, amazon music, apple music, or wherever they get their podcast and let me simply say thank you in advance. We appreciate your support.
Are PPO plans going to be lowering your contracted fees? The answer is YES. So if you think your fees are low now, just wait until you get the next round of reductions. This week, we talk about this pattern that has been going on for the past 9 years!
Episode show notes - https://bit.ly/3gC9D5u
Change is constant, and while you may not control what happens around you, you DO have the power to CHOOSE your response. This week, we discuss a viral letter shared by Dr. Nachos & the power dentists have to choose their response to make a positive change in the world of dentistry!
Episode Shownotes: https://bit.ly/3v7CROF
Doing more of single tooth dentistry? Blame it on the typical $1000 annual dental insurance limit that has changed patient mindsets! This week we talk about what you can do to shift patient attitudes towards ideal treatment plans and reduce the impact of insurance limitations in your practice.
2016 was a tipping point for dentistry and dentists now have to face new challenges. What does this mean and how do we face & overcome these challenges? Listen as Gary Takacs explores this topic and the way forward for dentists.
Here's the reality: you will face at least one negative review in your career as a dental professional, but there's good news! You can make negative reviews work in your favor if you respond correctly. Listen to this week's episode to learn how!
When it comes to dropping PPO plans, dentists ask the question, "How do I know if I am ready?" Resigning from PPO plans is a calculated decision, so it is important to ask this question. In this episode, Gary Takacs explains whether you're ready to have a PPO-free practice or not, and what you should do to get ready if you aren't.
Every new patient call is an opportunity. This is why it is vital to maintain an internal system to convert new patient calls to “kept appointments.” In this episode, Gary Takacs explains how to track the conversion rate in your practice, and the one question that’ll increase the conversion rate of your practice!
Dentists are victors! Why? Because the process of becoming a dentist is a challenging one. You truly have to be a victor to become a dentist. Becoming less insurance dependent can be equally challenging. Therefore, it's important to continue embracing the mindset of a victor amidst the naysayers. Listen to this week's episode to learn how to embrace the attitude and the mindset of a victor.
As a dentist, why should you care about your dental website?
It's simply because the times have indeed changed! Back then, having an attractive billboard helps you attract patients in your community. Now the purpose is fulfilled with a website. Your website will become the source of an ideal patient flow before and after you drop PPO plans. Gary Takacs will discuss the biggest mistake that could happen on your dental website and how to avoid it.
Here are three tips to increase your new patient kept-appointment rate!
Dentists often experience no-shows from their new patients, and they want help in making these new patients show up for their appointments. Gary Takacs explains three common problems that cause this situation and turns them into three tips in this episode. Listen and never experience no-shows from your new patients again!
Scripts vs. Talking points! Is there really a winner or a loser? These can be useful to your dental practice if you know how to use them correctly. The usefulness also depends on the individual who is using them. In this episode, Gary Takacs will discuss how you can correctly use talking points and scripts to achieve your desired goals.
Bonus resource: Visit the Less Insurance Dependence episode #130 page and grab the episode bonus resource!
This episode is titled after the most frequently asked questions related to PPOs’! Hence it is evident that dentists hesitate to go out-of-network because they fear losing a high percentage of patients. Gary discusses a case study to help dentists like you understand the actual consequences of deciding to go out-of-network. If you are a dentist who’s contemplating transforming your practice into a less insurance-dependent practice, listen to this episode!
Your team members are your greatest asset in your dental practice. With the correct measures, you can truly transform your team members into becoming practice champions who will lead the practice into success. The growth of your practice should not result from only your hard work, but it should be the result of everyone’s teamwork if you wish to avoid becoming overwhelmed as a dentist. Listen to this episode to find out how Gary would suggest you create practice champions that care about your practice’s growth as much as you do!
It isn’t unusual for dentists to have second thoughts once they go out-of-network. Once you drop out of PPO plans, you will face unique challenges in your practice. You can overcome them by having confidence in your decision and yourself to reassure your team that your decision is beneficial to the practice and your patients.
Your patients lose by being a part of the insurance companies’ games. You need to understand how today’s dental insurance system works. Once you do, It is vital to take the necessary steps to help your patients receive the dental treatments they deserve. In this episode, Gary will explain how your decision to go out-of-network positively impacts your patients'. Listen now and get inspired to make the correct decision!
If you and your team are on the same page when it comes to your practice goals, you are truly on the path to success! A starter bonus system enables you to get your team members to focus on tasks that help you achieve your practice goals. Hence, having a bonus system creates a major positive impact on your practice outcome. In this episode, Gary will explain how you can create one in your practice.
A survey was done in the streets of Downtown, Chicago, and passersby were asked “If there’s something you could change about your smile, what would you change?” Out of 6000 respondents, 85% of the people said that they want whiter teeth. This is but just a simple example of why you should add high-value services in your practice that aren't covered by insurance. In this episode, Gary will explain the sixth step to successfully resign from PPO plans and your practice high-value services.
SMART is an acronym that helps you align your learnings with your actions to achieve your practice goals. Your practice goals should be transformed into SMART goals to ensure that you and your team are taking the action required to achieve the stated goals. In this episode, Gary will explain SMART goals and how you can apply this acronym to your practice goals.
In step five to successfully resign from PPO plans, you will learn how you can elevate the relationship-driven element of your practice. This will help you in creating a practice with patients who like, know, and trust you. Which in return increases the patient retention rate of your practice.
As you’re working towards plan A to become insurance free, having a plan B will help you relieve the fears you may have about Plan A going wrong. Then you will not convey your fears to your team members, which will create a parrot-reaction and make it impossible for you to progress in Plan A. Even though you won’t need it, Gary explains the importance of having a Plan B in this episode.
In a world full of insurance-driven practices, more and more patients lose the benefits they gain by having insurance. That is why Gary formulated a plan that can help you provide benefits to your patients and improve their health. Step number four to successfully resign from PPO plans is all about designing a plan that makes your patients' lives better and increases your retention rate.
From having the right people to having the right mindsets, discipline is key to transforming your practice from "good to great". In this episode, Gary and Naren talk about the importance of cultivating a culture of discipline to build the right foundation for a thriving dental practice. Listen as Gary and Naren share tips and strategies that will help you develop an attitude of discipline in your practice.
In this episode, Gary breaks down the third step to successfully resign from PPO plans; getting your team on board. Reducing insurance dependency is not a solo journey. To successfully transition from PPO-driven to less insurance dependent, you need the support and buy-in of your entire team. Listen as Gary and Naren share four specific strategies to help get your team behind your goal of successfully resigning from PPO plans.
Reviews are a great way for potential new patients to choose your practice for their dental care as they read the positive experiences that your current patients share. In this episode, Gary explains five easy steps to increase your Google reviews, become more visible to potential patients and become the practice with the highest number of Google reviews in your community.
Step number two to successfully resigning from PPO plans is all about taking proactive measures to replace the number of patients you may lose by going out-of-network. Implementing these measures will help you establish an ideal patient flow and avoid any negative consequences you will face by making a hasty decision. Listen to learn more about step number two of the six steps to successfully resign from PPO plans!
Does your practice give patients a reason to come back? If you're a dentist considering reducing insurance dependency, then this is should be a vital component of your practice. In today's episode, Gary and Naren discuss how exactly you can transform your practice from being a transaction-based practice to a relationship-driven practice.
As a listener of the Less Insurance Dependence podcast, you are one out of ten dentists who have a goal to resign from PPO plans. We know this journey can at times be challenging, but we've got your back! In today's episode, Gary shares step number one of a series of six steps that will help you successfully resign from PPO plans. BONUS: Today's episode also includes a clinical tip from Dr. Baldwin Marchack!
Thinking of reducing your overhead? While reducing your overhead is always a good strategy, it has now become timely amidst the wake of the covid pandemic. In today's episode, Gary talks about one of the main contributors to high overhead, insurance dependency, along with three reasons why it is a wise move to go out-of-network in the post COVID world.
The dentist-patient relationship is no doubt the heart of your practice, which is why your practice needs to become relationship-driven. In today's episode, Gary introduces two powerful questions you can ask all your new patients. These simple yet profound questions were introduced to Gary by his mentor, Dr. Omer Reed, and continues to have a tremendous impact in transforming patient relationships even today.
Changes made to the Delta contracted fee schedule have a direct impact on the profitability of your practice. Therefore, it is crucial to be aware of possible changes and understand what you can do as a practice owner to combat any adverse effects. In today's episode, Gary outlines pre-emptive solutions you can take to mitigate any negative impact from this change.
It's common for patients to have a better relationship with their hygienists than anyone else in the dental practice since they spend the most time with them. In this episode, Gary shares how you can capitalize on the relationship your hygienists have with your patients to increase case acceptance, production, and profitability. Gary also highlights the importance of measuring your case acceptance rates along with ideal benchmarks to get you inspired.
When it comes to dental insurance, Delta is the Goliath of insurance! However, not all delta plans are equal. In this episode, Gary examines the differences between Delta plans and outlines an action plan all dentists should follow when going out-of-network. This episode gives you practical tools to successfully reduce insurance dependence with strategies to retain 85-90% of your existing patients as you do so.
Free consultations are a great way to attract prospective patients. However, offering free consultations may not always guarantee more patients and increased profitability. So does it really make sense to offer free consultations in your practice? Listen to find out Gary's response in today's episode!
Dentists are all too familiar with the dreaded question, "Is this covered by my insurance?" While patients may think insurance is of benefit to them, it's quite the opposite. Going out-of-network not only benefits you but your patients as well. So how do you convince patients of the advantages of being out-of-network? In this episode, Gary coaches you on the verbal skills you need to successfully answer this question and increase patient retention in the process.
Did you know that close to half of the population in North America put off visits to the dentist because of fear? As a dentist, you would agree that patients who avoid dental care are on track to experiencing severe oral health issues. So what's the solution? In today's episode, Gary and Naren talk about offering Oral Conscious Sedation to patients prone to fear and anxiety and how this ties in with reducing insurance dependence.
Most dentists believe in a now-defunct urban myth: Negotiating with Dental Insurance Companies. This may have been true a few decades ago, but certainly not today. Join Gary in this episode as he responds to the popular assumption of negotiating with insurance companies, along with examples from his experiences and how you can move towards the future of the industry by dropping PPO plans!
Are you stuck in a practice surrounded by patients who don’t see your true value? In this episode, Gary discusses ways to attract patients who value what you value and the benefits that follow from reigniting your passion and understanding your self-worth.
In this episode, Gary and Naren flip things and talk about reasons to stay in-network! Yes, you heard that right! Listen now to find out Gary's reasons for why it might be right for you to stay in-network with PPO Plans.
We have all heard of the adverse effects of insurance dependence, but are you aware of the consequences of inaction? In this episode, Gary & Naren discuss the impact of insurance dependence on your short-term and long-term profitability and how it prevents you from realizing the potential of your practice.
In this episode, Gary discusses one of the main reasons preventing practices from reducing insurance dependency “team resistance”. Listen to this week's episode to learn how to overcome resistance and convert hostile team members to your biggest supporters.
It's our 100'th episode, and it's a special one! Many dentists dream of becoming 100% FFS, but most are afraid of taking the plunge. In this episode, Gary interviews Dr. Tracy Hughes (one of his coaching clients), who has successfully resigned from all PPO plans and has been 100% Fee-For-Service for the past six months. Listen as Dr. Hughes shares many experiences and insights from her journey.
Almost every dentist would love to resign from PPO Plans yet very few of them do. Ever wonder why that is? Join Gary and Naren as they explore the five biggest reasons why dentists are reluctant to resign from PPO plans, along with steps to overcome each of these hurdles.
Convincing patients to accept comprehensive dentistry can be a challenging process. In this episode, Gary shares a real game-changer that will help you successfully introduce comprehensive dentistry to your patients - The Permission Statement.
Having the right mindset is the key to unleashing many of life's opportunities, and it's no different when it comes to having a successful practice. In today's episode, Gary and Naren share real stories of dentists who have successfully reduced insurance dependence. Listen and be inspired!
The Covid-19 pandemic has transformed the landscape of dentistry and has introduced a new way of life. Taking additional steps to keep our patients and team members safe has now become essential. In this episode, Gary explores the precautionary measures that have become the standard with covid while discussing what it entails in terms of cost and insurance reimbursements.
Accountability is the cornerstone of any great practice. Dentists, that hold team members responsible for accomplishing set goals see an increase in practice productivity. In this episode, Gary and Naren share the secret of creating accountability, along with systems and strategies for doing so.
It's easy to get caught up in the minutiae of everyday life and forget to be thankful for the good things in our lives. In today's episode, Gary and Naren pause to examine why gratitude should be an intentional part of your life and how practicing gratitude with patients and team members is crucial to a thriving practice.
Let's face it, dentistry can be challenging, and burnout is a very real occurrence among many dentists today. So how do you stop burnout from stealing your passion? In today's episode, Gary and Naren delve into the steps that dentists can take to reduce burnout and keep their love for dentistry alive.
Becoming a less insurance dependent practice can be a challenging experience, but one that you can successfully navigate with the right strategies. One such key to success is knowing how to answer the #1 question you will face as you start going out of network, "Why are you not accepting my insurance?" This week Gary explains how to communicate effectively and retain as many of your existing patients as possible as you reduce insurance dependency.
Last-minute cancellations and no-shows are a common dilemma for most practices, and many front office team members find themselves scrambling to fill appointments canceled on short notice. There is a better way! In today's episode, Gary and Naren discuss proven protocols and systems that practices can implement to reduce last-minute cancellations and no-shows.
Many dentists are so keen to go out of the network that they do so with little or no preparation only to regret it later. In today’s episode, Gary introduces a readiness checklist with six factors that every practice should consider before pulling the plug. So if you are a dentist looking to transition to a fee-for-service practice, this episode is for you.
"Can I resign from PPOs when 90% of my patients have dental insurance"? Regardless of the percentage of existing patients in your practice that are on dental insurance, the answer is Yes! Listen to this episode to find out how!
One of the essential keys to becoming a Thriving Practice is to become a relationship-driven practice. This is why it's so important that dentists pay attention to strengthening the relationships they have with their patients. In today's episode, Gary and Naren share a proven strategy for improving your patient relationships called "The We Care Call."
Having a white, perfectly aligned smile has become a mark of beauty or positive appearance and is a much sought after service among many in today's society. In this episode, Gary shares 4 tips to dramatically grow whitening appointments in your practice and how to use this opportunity to introduce other cosmetic and restorative treatments to your patients.
How do you cultivate a team that you absolutely love and enjoy working with? The answer is in today's episode! Listen as Gary shares practical tips that will help you identify and recruit the right people to your team.
There's no doubt that the Covid-19 pandemic has been brutal on dental practices. In this week’s episode, Gary tackles the most asked question these days “Is now the right time to resign from PPO’s?” Listen as Gary and Naren discuss the changes brought about by the pandemic and why practices should view it as an opportunity to convince patients of the benefits of reducing insurance dependence.
Many businesses want to create an environment where they can attract and retain the best possible team members, and providing a benefits package is one way that they do this. However, these businesses soon discover that most dental plans aren't a good deal for them. In today's episode, Gary and Naren discuss the genius of in-office membership plans in creating a win-win situation for both you and the small businesses in your community.
Affordable healthcare has always been a trending topic and Covid-19 has merely amplified this need. In today's episode, Gary and Naren discuss the importance of making dentistry affordable so that more patients can get the treatment they need along with steps on how you can do so effectively.
There is no denying that Covid-19 has thrown a wrench into the plans of many practices, but it's time to pick ourselves up and come back stronger! In today's episode, Gary shares 5 strategies that he and other thriving dentists are using to comeback stronger post-Covid-19. Listen and be encouraged to step up to the challenge!
As we gradually emerge from a lockdown of several weeks, most dentists will find that there's a large backlog of hygiene appointments waiting for them. In this episode, Gary and Naren discuss ideas dentists can incorporate to make up lost hygiene appointments as quickly as possible and avoid stepping on this major landmine!
They say necessity is the mother of invention. As the challenges caused by the Covid-19 pandemic become more real, some practices are using creative technological solutions like virtual consults to interact with their patients. In this episode, Gary and Naren expand on this concept and discuss practical steps to adopt this technology in your practice.
The Covid-19 pandemic has forced us to adapt to a new way of life, and working from home has now become the new norm for most people. In today's episode, Gary and Naren share 5 ways dentists and their teams can grow their practice while working from home. In this episode, Gary and Naren discuss 5 important tasks you can do from home to help your practice continue to grow. Although it is a trying time and we are not able to be working in our dental practices, there is so much you can do from your home to keep your practice thriving.
The Covid-19 pandemic is both a crisis and an opportunity at the same time. In this episode, Gary shares some of his observations and the lessons the Covid-19 pandemic can teach dentists about building a thriving practice. This episode is full of practical tips that can help you get through this stressful time, so listen now!
World-class dentists always exhibit strong leadership skills. Inspired by one of Gary and Naren’s favorite books, Stephen Covey's 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, Gary explores these concepts from the perspective of a practice owner and shares how dentists can effectively apply these strategies in their practice.
COVID-19 is making us all feel uncertain and out of control. Today, Gary and Naren sit down to discuss how you can change your perception to look at this as an opportunity instead of a crisis. Listen as Gary talks about leadership, optimism, and lessons to learn and follow during this difficult time.
It is no secret that production has a direct impact on profitability. In today’s episode, Gary outlines 4 simple yet effective ways to increase your production daily. This is one episode you won't want to miss!
What's the number one practice management issue that every dentist faces? Hygiene cancellations & no-shows! In this episode, Gary coaches you on how to address and eliminate this issue in your practice. Listen to find out the 4 specific tips Gary shares that you can implement in your practice immediately.