Cliff's Notes

The Business of Dentistry

“The American Academy for Oral Systemic Health” – “NJDA Loses Court Battle!”

Cliff’s Notes for February 19, 2012

 

Cliff Marsh, Henry Schein ……Cell: 201-321-7494……Fax: 201-262-2210…..E-mail: cliff.marsh@henryschein.com

http://www.cliffsnotesblog.me

http://www.youtube.com/cliffmarsh100

 

The reason we do what we do, is so that we can to do what we want to do, when we want to do it!

It’s a tongue twister, but working as a team and making informed decisions, will get us there.

 

 

“I hope I shall possess firmness and virtue enough to maintain what I consider the most enviable of all titles, the character of an honest man.”

George Washington

 

This Week’s Feature on the Cliff’s Notes Channel

“The American Academy of Oral Systemic Health ”

http://www.youtube.com/cliffmarsh100

 

In This Week’s Issue

  • The American Academy for Oral Systemic Health!
  • NJDA Loses Court Battle!
  • Dental Billing & Coding – Full Day Session!
  • Product Review – Total Health Patient Education!
  • Commentary for Sunday, February 12, 2012 – Products Liability!


The American Academy for Oral Systemic Health………………………………………………………

The American Academy for Oral Systemic Health is an organization of health care leaders and health professionals dedicated to the relationship of oral health and whole body health. AAOSH membership includes and is open to health professionals from many allied health disciplines, corporate supporters and sponsors, health educators, and healthcare leaders.

Understanding the emerging science-driven relationships between the mouth and the body, AAOSH promotes building closer ties between allied health professionals and improving interdisciplinary communication and professional referral relationships.

AAOSH invites all health professionals and members of the healthcare community at large to increase their understanding of the many relationships between the mouth and the body, and to become actively involved with us in changing the public and professional attitudes and awareness related to the many oral-systemic connections.

For more information log onto: www.aaosh.org or Henry Schein Total Health Learning: Earn Dental CE Credits Online … Accredited Dental Continuing Education Courses Free Through Live Webinars an Online Training. http://www.totalhealthlearning.com/

0:44 Add to

Dr. Jacqueline Russo Talks about the American Academy for Oral Systemic Health

Jacqueline Russo, nurse and dentist, speaks about her commitment to educating the public on the mouth-body connection.

 

NJDA Loses Court Battle! ………………………………………………………………………………………………..

A state appeals court has turned away the New Jersey Dental Association’s challenge to a state regulation that forces dentists to charge reduced rates for certain services. The state Department of Banking and Insurance did not act improperly when it allowed two dental insurance carriers to bundle two plans for its subscribers — one that provided coverage for certain services and another that set a fee schedule for non-covered services that dentists had to agree to, the Appellate Division held Wednesday February 15th in New Jersey Dental Association v. Metropolitan Life Ins. Co., A-2916-10. 

This information was supplied to Cliff’s Notes by JoAnn Pietro, RN, Esq. of Wahrenberger & Pietro LLP
JoAnn Pietro specializes in litigation and health law in Dentistry and is recommended by Cliff’s Notes. Contact information jpietro@wpslawfirm.com  / www.wpslawfirm.com

 

Dental Billing and Coding: Maximize Practice Revenue……………………………………………………………………….
Friday March 2, 2012   9:00 am – 4:00 pm / 6 CEU’s / Cost: $140.00

More insurance billing & better collections. Patients, who understand their insurance benefits, accept treatment. These are just some of the rewards your office can expect to reap by fully understanding dental billing and coding, and knowing how to read an insurance EOB, or Explanation of Benefits document.

Speaker: Christine Taxin: Course Objectives and Outcomes:

Establish basic knowledge of dental insurance and EOBs – Examine typical insurance collection problems, and learn how to avoid them – Eliminate common mistakes on dental insurance claims – Know how to get the most out of patients’ dental benefits  – Increase confidence that production goals that are set can be met!

For more information or to register, please click on the link below: 

https://www.dsi-nj.com/courses/continuing-education/dental-billing-and-coding-maximize-practice-revenue

 

Product Review – Total Health Patient Education Kit…………………………………………………………….

Why don’t patients keep their appointments? It’s time to change the culture and raise dentistry on the priority list. This is a marketing effort that will increase patient flow and raise the level of care your office provides. You need to communicate! 

The Total Health Kit provides all the information required to introduce your patients to the new world of preventive medicine. The tag line is “Your Mouth is a Window into the Health of the Rest of Your Body”.

The easy to read literature covers Perio Disease – Oral Cancer & HPV – Sleep Disorders – Heart Disease – Diabetes – Pregnancy.

Why try to re-invent the wheel? The complete kit costs $89.99 and is available for next day delivery. Part #125-0112.

For more information on advancing your practice of dentistry, log onto: www.aaosh.org

 

Commentary for Sunday February 19, 2012……………………………………………………………

In today’s market we are all looking to save a few bucks, but are we willing to gamble and extend our liabilities. I said it before and I’ll say it again, only buy product from authorized distributors. If you are not sure who is authorized and who is not, call the manufacturer. Your reputation and future depend on it. I could have listed a countless number of articles addressing the concerns, but I know you have seen many of them before. Here are 3 of the most recent.

FDA warns of counterfeit cancer drug – CNN.com

3 days ago … The FDA says a counterfeit version of the anti-cancer drug Avastin may have been purchased and used in practices in the United States.

http://www.cnn.com/2012/02/15/health/fda-avastin-counterfeit/index.html

Gray Market vs. Black Market | Inside Dentistry | dentalaegis.com

The channels used for gray market products typically are the same channels used to sell counterfeit products. Counterfeit drugs and devices used in dentistry.

http://www.dentalaegis.com/id/2011/04/gray-market-versus-black-market

WHPA ‘Be Aware’ counterfeit medical products campaign

FDI World Dental Federation www.fdiworldental.org. WHPA ‘Be Aware’ counterfeit medical products campaign. For more information about Be Aware, please log onto:

http://www.whpa.org/WHPA_Counterfeit_Medicines_campaign.pdf -

Log On Now!  www.sleepcomplete.com

Cliff Marsh

Henry Schein Dental

P.O. Box 663 / 45 Rt. 46 East, Suite 605

Pine Brook, NJ 07058

Cell: 201-321-7494

Fax: 201-262-2210

cliff.marsh@henryschein.com

http://www.cliffsnotesblog.me  

http://www.facebook.com/#!/profile.php?id=1644814090

http://www.linkedin.com/pub/cliff-marsh/11/447/44

The Cliff’s Notes Channel http://www.youtube.com/cliffmarsh100

February 19, 2012 Posted by | Uncategorized | Leave a Comment

“A Story of 2 Dentists” – “Why Do Manufacturers Offer Free Goods” – The Smart Bur 2″

Cliff’s Notes for February 12, 2012

Cliff Marsh, Henry Schein ……Cell: 201-321-7494……Fax: 201-262-2210…..E-mail: cliff.marsh@henryschein.com

http://www.cliffsnotesblog.me

http://www.youtube.com/cliffmarsh100

 

The reason we do what we do, is so that we can to do what we want to do, when we want to do it!

It’s a tongue twister, but working as a team and making informed decisions, will get us there.

 

“America will never be destroyed from the outside. If we falter and lose our freedoms, it will be because we destroyed ourselves.”

Abraham Lincoln

 

 

This Week’s Feature on the Cliff’s Notes Channel

“The Straine Effect”

Kerry Straine was voted the National Practice Management Consultant of the Year by Dr.Bicuspid.com

http://www.drbicuspid.com/index.aspx?sec=nws&sub=rad&pag=dis&ItemID=309576

“Kerry Straine & Keys to Success”

http://www.youtube.com/cliffmarsh100

 

In This Week’s Issue

  • A Story of 2 Dentists!
  • Why Do Manufacturers Offer Free Goods? It’s Not What You Think!
  • Product Review – Link to the Smart Bur 2 by SS White
  • Commentary for Sunday, February 12, 2012

 

A story of 2 Dentists……………………………………………………….

Most of you know that I am not 100% politically correct so for the purpose of this “true” story I will refer to both dentists as men, even if the fact is that there are more women dentists entering the industry.

Dr. Jim graduated dental school in 1969. The Jets had just upset the Colts and won the Super Bowl, the Miracle Mets upset the Oriels in the World Series & Neil Armstrong walked on the Moon. It was an era of surprises and success and Jim’s dental career was no different, it started off with a bang!

After graduation, Jim was mentored by his family’s dentist and opened his own practice from scratch. The practice grew, Jim raised a family and now he and his wife agreed that it was time to travel and enjoy life. It’s time for “life after dentistry”.  Although he wanted more free time, he felt that he was too young to retire and enjoyed the income and perks his business provided so in 1982 he brought in Bill as an associate and hopefully a future partner.

Bill was young and enjoyed dentistry’s new diagnostic technologies and re-constructive techniques and the patients all liked him. After a year, Jim offered Bill an opportunity to buy into the practice so they contacted their respective attorneys to work out a deal. Well, that was the first mistake. If there is anything I have learned over my 35+ years in business, it is that “when the professionals get involved, the deal can get screwed up”.

The trap that Jim & Bill fell into is that they did not understand what the professional’s roll is. The professional’s role is to provide information so that YOU can make an informed decision. In a practice sale, the lawyer’s job is to inform you of possible liabilities and offer advice to protect your future. An accountant’s job is to crunch numbers and provide detailed financial information as well as a tax plan for the next several years.  It’s your job to see the long term ROI and pull the trigger on a deal.

So, how does a “GOOD” deal get structured? You need to consult an experienced Practice Transition Specialist. A transition specialist is a neutral party that provides information to the professionals as well as successful contractual formulas. Transition Specialist can also be “practice brokers” but a practice broker is usually not a transition specialist. The explanation of the difference between the two is a separate discussion and I would be happy to have that conversation as a side bar. I can be reached @ 201-321-7494 or cliff.marsh@henryschein.com.

Jim & Bill were developing a very healthy relationship but the deal, although eventually consummated, soured their friendship. Jim’s pot of gold turned into a pot of silver, still not bad, and Bill’s dream was delayed by several years.

A Dentist is like a fine tuned athlete, they don’t want to walk off the field. If you are a NY Yankee fan think about the relationship between Joe DiMaggio and Mickey Mantle, it’s no different. Dr. Jim was forced to leave the practice, by contract, after the deal expired 2002 and retired to a warmer climate. In 2009 Dr. Bill brought in a new associate, Dr. Jane, and in 2010 created a win-win 5 year transition but now plans full time retirement, at the request of his wife, at the end of 2013, two years ahead of schedule. Dr. Bill learned from his past and had an experienced transition expert work with his financial advisors to help him structure an acceptable deal with Dr. Jane and a long term plan for the next phase of his life. Dr. Bill and Dr. Jane remain friends and will for many years to come.

This is a true story. Some of you may think it is about you, but I guaranty it is not. Dr. Bill is my friend and he is currently working 6-10 days per month and is enjoying his new grandchild and his 2nd home in the Florida Keys.

You see, the story is almost always the same and the outcome only depends on whether you turn right or left at the start of your journey. You are only going to transition out of dentistry once, do it the right way.

A very successful investment banker once said to me “when both side of the deal walk away from the table a little un-happy, it’s a good deal”.

Why Do Manufacturers Offer Free Goods?………………………………….

How many times do you hear “by 6 & get 1 free”? This is a standard sales technique that was designed to get you to try a product and possibly start using it on a regular basis. However, with technology now offering detailed consumer information data the concept has changed. Now you are asked to fax or mail a copy of your invoice to the manufacturer to receive your free goods.

The question most savvy consumers have is why don’t they just lower the price? Well, this is why. Millions of dollars are spent every year on market research and the data reveals that 70% of free goods are not requested by consumers and leaves the manufacturer with a straight retail sale. In a dental office, the buyer and the supply manager must communicate with each other and coordinate the requests and monitor the receipt of merchandise. If the free merchandise requests fall through the cracks it could cost the office thousands of dollars annually and with different management issues consuming time (time is money) on a daily basis, lost inventory is a common occurrence.

Inventory management automation is the only way to economically track merchandise and control the flow of “working inventory”. Many of my clients utilize the Aruba Inventory Management System, that I provide free of charge, to control and minimize inventory expenses.

Aruba software is supported by over 90% of the dental manufacturers in the U.S. and coordinates all national promotions with your purchases. On a quarterly basis all manufacturer promotions are directly down loaded into Aruba and any qualifying purchase your team makes is automatically recorded and available with the click of a mouse. POP (proof of purchase) reports created by Aruba are accepted by all industry manufactures so there is no need to photocopy or hold invoices on the side. The POP contains all rebate and contact information including invoice number, date and cost.

There is no reason your organization can’t better control the flow of your working inventory by using inventory software. The only reason it won’t work is because your inventory manager doesn’t want to use it. Now that may raise other questions, but we’ll leave that discussion for another time.

For more information on inventory management, please feel free to contact me at any time @ 201-321-7494 or cliff.marsh@henryschein.com.

1:37Add to

Henry Schein – Why Rely on Henry Schein – Distribution for your inventory management and flow. Next day delivery & 99.8% fill rates means less inventory on your shelf, lower carrying costs, and more time for clinical production. The ONLY way to successfully reduce overhead is to increase production.

6:57

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video lang: en

Improving Production and Controlling Overhead

Kerry Straine

 

Product Review – SS White Smart Bur 2…………………………..

The Smart Bur 2 will not cut dentin. The following link provides detailed information/

 

http://www.sswhiteburs.com/smb/index.php

 

Commentary for Sunday February 12, 2012………………………

Today is the birthday of the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln. When growing up in the 1960’s part of our grade school assignment was to memorize 2 historical documents. The first was the preamble to the Constitution that started off with “We the People of the United States”. The second was one of the greatest speeches ever given. It was written on the back of an envelope on a train ride from Washington DC to a small town in Pennsylvania called Gettysburg.

On the afternoon of November 19, 1863, after several hours of standing in the cold and listening to politicians make speeches, President Lincoln approached the podium. His remarks lasted only 90 seconds but summed up the belief and strength of our founding fathers.

Regardless of your political convictions, “We The People” was Lincoln’s core value. Never before or since has an American President sacrificed so much to preserve our constitution and our Union.

The Gettysburg Address

Four score and seven years ago, our fathers brought forth, upon this continent, a new nation, conceived in liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that “all men are created equal.”

Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation, or any nation so conceived, and so dedicated, can long endure. We are met on a great battlefield of that war. We have come to dedicate a portion of it, as a final resting place for those who died here, that this nation might live. This we may, in all propriety do. But, in a larger sense, we cannot dedicate — we cannot consecrate — we cannot hallow, this ground — The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have hallowed it, far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here; while it can never forget what they did here.

It is rather for us, the living, we here be dedicated to the great task remaining before us — that, from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they here, gave the last full measure of devotion — that we here highly resolve these dead shall not have died in vain; that this nation, under God shall have a new birth of freedom, and that the government of the people by the people and for the people, shall not perish from the earth.

2:41

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The Gettysburg Address As Read By Johnny Cash

President Lincoln’s message to America rings down through the ages…

Enjoy the day, enjoy your family and teach your children well….

Log On Now!  www.sleepcomplete.com

February 12, 2012 Posted by | Uncategorized | Leave a Comment

“For Every Action” & “Marketing Your Current Patient Base” & “A Product Review of the Paradigm Line”

  Cliff’s Notes for February 5, 2012

 

Cliff Marsh, Henry Schein ……Cell: 201-321-7494……Fax: 201-262-2210…..E-mail: cliff.marsh@henryschein.com

http://www.cliffsnotesblog.me

http://www.youtube.com/cliffmarsh100

 

The reason we do what we do, is so that we can to do what we want to do, when we want to do it!

It’s a tongue twister, but working as a team and making informed decisions, will get us there.

 

“Tact is the art of making a point without making an enemy.”

Sir Isaac Newton

 

 

This Week’s Feature on the Cliff’s Notes Channel

Dr. Charles Blair

“Industry Changes That Will Impact Your Practice”

&

“Insurance Coding”

http://www.youtube.com/cliffmarsh100

 

 

In This Week’s Issue

  • For Every Action There is a Reaction!
  • Market to your Current Patient Base?
  • Product Review – The Paradigm Line from 3M!
  • Commentary for Sunday

For Every Action There is a Reaction!………………………………………………………………………………..

Newton’s 3rd Law is a “bit of advice” that is overlooked by most small business owners and dentists are not exempt. We tend to make decisions that are influenced by emotion and anticipation. How many “dental toys” are sitting on a shelf earning dust? How much production did you lose because you wouldn’t give staff members a $25.00 gift card if they came in during bad weather? How many dollars did you lose worrying about dimes?

Recently I said that you have no expenses. All of your business expenses are investments. For every investment there should be a calculated return. The investment is an action and the return is the reaction.

Investing in your staff is the best action you can take and you will realize the biggest re-action. A positive attitude among staff members will increase productivity and reduce the overhead footprint on your practice.

An investment in staff starts with a “staff discovery meeting”. For my clients, this is a 1 hour meeting that I conduct, without the doc, and the staff members can answer questions freely, anonymously, and as a group. Staff feels more comfortable and open when the boss is not around and there is safety in numbers. Drama often plays a big part in staff issues and that’s an action that will have a negative reaction. Discovery meetings usually find those speed bumps, and that’s why they’re called discovery meetings.

Running a business is like playing a game of chess, you need to think about your moves in advance and anticipate the reaction. A well managed staff not only increases clinical production and revenues, but it also increases the value of your practice. Now you can put yourself in the position to find a whiz kid associate, start a long controlled transition, and find your little piece of heaven on earth.

Sounds easy don’t it? Well it’s not’s! It requires thought, planning and patients (no pun intended) to take your team into the Red Zone and giving them the tools to help you score (I thought that today was a good opportunity to use some “American” football terms).

To schedule a private time to discuss staff management issues, please feel free to contact me at any time. There are very few situations that I haven’t seen or dealt with and many of your peers have the same problems. Most of us have normal everyday issues, it’s our ability to recognize the actions that will create the biggest positive reaction, and execute.

If you think I can help you do more and better dentistry, please let me know. No matter s how good things seem to be, they can be better.

Market to Your Current Patient Base………………………………………………………………………………………..

I have always said that your current patient base is your “core business” and needs to be constantly maintained. Your marketing dollars should be focused on re-appointing 100% of your patients. You may wonder why I said that, well, just about every practice analysis I do shows a successful re-care rate of only 50%. If you were able to capture 30% more, think of the increase in production. An office that sees 10 patients/day would increase to 13 and that translates to 48 additional appointments per month based on a 4 day work week, and that’s not counting new patients!

We all know that in today’s high tech world of communication you need to have a web page & a Facebook page. You need to be what your patients are seeing everywhere. I walk into 7-11 and there are several flat screens showing everything from advertisements to traffic and weather. 

Investing in patient communication gives you the opportunity to brand yourself. Collect e-mail addresses & cell phone numbers for texting because people don’t answer phones anymore. The growth in your practice is in your current patient base. You need to tap into it and solidify your core business, great structures have strong foundations. The following presentations may help you develop some ideas and please don’t hesitate contacting me at any time.

2:32Add to

Dentist Rewards Patients!

A dentist is using Loyal Patient™ Rewards (savings on travel, entertainment, and merchandise) to reward patients for good oral health. http://loyalpatientsinc.com/

GURU Patient Education System http://www.howdoyouguru.com/

Demandforce Patient Communication System http://www.demandforce.com/

 

Product Review – The Paradigm Line from 3M………………………………………………………….

With costs rising on all fronts, 3M has addressed the issue. A high quality Nano Hybrid composite at “yesterday’s price!” The secret is that by providing only 12 of the most popular shades, production and regulatory cost drop and 3M is passing it on to the end user.

ST. PAUL, Minnesota—For everyday procedures, the right products can help dentists keep overhead low and deliver patient care with confidence. That’s why 3M ESPE has introduced the Paradigm brand.

Paradigm is a new family brand that will offer dental professionals competitively priced products with the standard features they rely on. The brand debuts with the introduction of Paradigm VPS Impression Material and Paradigm Nano Hybrid Universal Restorative—both scheduled for launch in April 2011.

“The Paradigm brand gives dentists the right balance of price and features for everyday dentistry,” said Keith Haig, director of marketing for 3M ESPE. “With well-made, easy-to-use products from a company they can trust, dentists can deliver quality care even while watching the bottom line.”

The new Paradigm VPS impression material exemplifies the features and value that will be offered by the Paradigm brand. For all indications, the easy-to-extrude material flows smoothly without dripping or slumping. Its hydrophilicity helps the material produce void-free impressions with detail.

Additionally, good tear strength helps protect impressions from damage and distortion during removal from the mouth. With a range of viscosities and setting times, Paradigm VPS impression materials give dentists options to suit their individual techniques and procedures.

Its versatility and price apply to all indications, including crowns and bridges, bleaching trays, mouth guard trays, study models, and provisional and denture impressions.

The new Paradigm Nano Hybrid restorative also offers a simple solution for daily restorative needs. It provides handling without slumping or sticking to instruments, allowing dentists to easily shape the composite.

With 12 shades, Paradigm Nano Hybrid restorative offers enough variety to cover most dentists’ daily needs. In addition, it is easy to polish and has strength and wear resistance. The restorative is intended for all indications, including direct anterior and posterior restorations, occlusal surfaces, core build-ups, splinting, and indirect restorations, such as inlays, onlays and veneers.

“Paradigm brand products are the new value in dentistry,” said Haig. “With straightforward features and reliable quality, 3M ESPE is giving dental professionals the complete range of tools they need.”

Click here for information on Paradigm Capsules (20 count)

http://solutions.3m.com/wps/portal/3M/en_US/3M-ESPE-NA/dental-professionals/products/espe-catalog/~/Paradigm-Nano-Hybrid-Univ-Restorative-20-0-2g-Capsules-B3?N=4294684574+5144829&Nr=AND%28hrcy_id%3AZ06QJJNBBHgs_9NM3MQ9NHD_N2RL3FHWVK_GPD0K8BC31gv%29&rt=d

Click here for information on Paradigm Syringes (3gm)

http://solutions.3m.com/wps/portal/3M/en_US/3M-ESPE-NA/dental-professionals/products/espe-catalog/~/Paradigm-Nano-Hybrid-Univ-Restorative-1-3g-Syringe-B1?N=4294684635+5144829&Nr=AND%28hrcy_id%3AXKV6H8T69Pgs_FTH0NBDZJH_N2RL3FHWVK_GPD0K8BC31gv%29&rt=d

Paradigm sampling is available to all of Cliff’s clients. Call: 201-321-7494 or send an e-mail to cliff.marsh@henryschein.com

 Introductory offer of 3+1 can bring the net cost as low as $3xxx/syringe and $3.50/capsule. Don’t forget about Paradigm VPS Impression Material.

Sunday February 5, 2012………………………………………………………………………………….

It’s Super Bowl Sunday! Enough said, enjoy the day!!

 

 

 

 

 

Log On Now!  www.sleepcomplete.com

Cliff Marsh

Henry Schein Dental

P.O. Box 663 / 45 Rt. 46 East, Suite 605

Pine Brook, NJ 07058

Cell: 201-321-7494

Fax: 201-262-2210

cliff.marsh@henryschein.com

http://www.cliffsnotesblog.me  

http://www.facebook.com/#!/profile.php?id=1644814090

http://www.linkedin.com/pub/cliff-marsh/11/447/44

The Cliff’s Notes Channel http://www.youtube.com/cliffmarsh100

February 6, 2012 Posted by | Uncategorized | Leave a Comment

“Workplace Litigatiion” – “Did You Forget Your Job?” – Product Review “MI Varnish”

Cliff’s Notes for January 29, 2012

Cliff Marsh, Henry Schein ……Cell: 201-321-7494……Fax: 201-262-2210…..E-mail: cliff.marsh@henryschein.com

http://www.cliffsnotesblog.me

http://www.youtube.com/cliffmarsh100

The reason we do what we do, is so that we can to do what we want to do, when we want to do it!

It’s a tongue twister, but working as a team and making informed decisions, will get us there.

 

“In nothing do men more nearly approach the gods than in giving health to men.”

Cicero

 

This Week’s Feature on the Cliff’s Notes Channel

“It’s Time to Give Kids A Smile”

http://www.youtube.com/cliffmarsh100

 

 

In This Week’s Issue

  • Workplace Litigation is on the Rise!
  • Did You Forget Your Job? What About Your Responsibility?
  • Product Review – MI Varnish, New from GC America!
  • Commentary for Sunday January 29, 2012 – GIVE KIDS A SMILE!!


Workplace Litigation is on the Rise!…………………………………………………………………………………

PRESS RELEASE 1-11-11

EEOC Reports Job Bias Charges Hit Record High of Nearly 100,000 in Fiscal Year 2010

Retaliation Surpasses Race as Most Frequent Allegation; Agency Obtains $404 Million for Victims

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) today announced that private sector workplace discrimination charge filings with the federal agency nationwide hit an unprecedented level of 99,922 during fiscal year (FY) 2010, which ended Sept. 30, 2010.

Despite the increase in overall charges filed with the EEOC last fiscal year, the Commission dramatically slowed the growth of the charge inventory. As a result, the federal agency ended FY 2010 with 86,338 pending charges – an increase of only 570 charges, or less than one percent. Between fiscal years 2008 and 2009, the EEOC’s pending inventory increased 15.9 percent.

“We are pleased to see that our rebuilding efforts are having an impact on how efficiently and effectively the Commission enforces the civil rights laws protecting the nation’s workers,” said EEOC Chair Jacqueline A. Berrien. “Discrimination continues to be a substantial problem for too many job seekers and workers, and we must continue to build our capacity to enforce the laws that ensure that workplaces are free of unlawful bias.”

The FY 2010 data show that the EEOC filed 250 lawsuits, resolved 285 lawsuits, and resolved 104,999 private sector charges. Through its combined enforcement, mediation and litigation programs, the EEOC secured more than $404 million in monetary benefits from employers — the highest level of monetary relief ever obtained by the Commission through the administrative process — to promote inclusive and discrimination-free workplaces.

The FY 2010 enforcement and litigation statistics, which include trend data, are available online at http://www.eeoc.gov/eeoc/statistics/enforcement/index.cfm. According to the FY 2010 data, all major categories of charge filings in the private sector (which include charges filed against state and local governments) increased. These include charges alleging discrimination under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; the Equal Pay Act; the Age Discrimination in Employment Act; the Americans with Disabilities Act; and the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA). Last year, for the first time ever, retaliation under all statutes (36,258) surpassed race (35,890) as the most frequently filed charge, while allegations based on religion (3,790), disability (25,165) and age (23,264) increased. In its first year of enforcement, the EEOC received 201 charges under GINA. Historically, race had been the most frequently filed charge since the EEOC became operational in 1965.

http://www.eeoc.gov/eeoc/statistics/enforcement/charges.cfm

The FY 2010 data also show: The mediation program ended the year with a record 9,370 resolutions, 10 percent more than FY 2009 levels, and more than $142 million in monetary benefits;

The EEOC also expanded its reach to underserved communities by providing educational training and public outreach events to approximately 250,000 persons; The agency continued its concerted effort to build a strong national systemic enforcement program. At the end of the fiscal year, 465 systemic investigations, involving more than 2,000 charges, were being undertaken;

The EEOC resolved a total of 7,213 requests for hearings in the federal sector, securing more than $63 million in relief for parties who requested hearings. The agency also resolved more than 4,600 federal sector appeals — 400 more than in FY 2009.

The EEOC enforces federal laws prohibiting employment discrimination. Further information about the Commission is available on its web site (www.eeoc.gov).

Protect Yourself: Do you have;

  1. An up-to-date employee manual.
  2. An up-to-date written job discretion.
  3. An up-to-date O.H.S.A. written compliance statement.
  4. An up-to-date written office protocol manual.
  5. An up-to-date written patient policy.

There are some constants in business and it is part of my job to keep my clients informed. Managing your staff correctly will help contain costs and increase production. Increased production reduces the footprint of your total overhead on your P&L. The result is more “disposable income” and that’s a good thing. Please contact me at any time with any questions or concerns @ 201-321-7494 or cliff.marsh@henryschein.com.

Did You Forget What you Do?……………………………………………………………………………………………….

I was fortunate this week to attend a session on Sleep Apnea that was sponsored by the Hudson County Dental Society. During the session a question was raised regarding patients requesting snoring devices and a statement was made by one of the attendees “if they ask for a device, I’ll make one and that’s it”. Now, I don’t know the doc, his background, or his patient base but the statement bothered me. Perhaps he had a long day and hasn’t been sleeping well; however, the statement is contradictory to everything that has happened to dentistry in the last 10 years and what I believe about the dental (oral healthcare) industry’s position and responsibility to the public. My concept is simple, “systemic health”.

I looked across the table at the doc and said “is there any concern for the reason the patient snores”? Snoring is a marker for more serious health conditions and once again I will say that Dentistry is the Forefront of Preventive Medicine.

I hate the word “dentist”, John Henry Holliday (Doc Holliday) was a dentist. I believe that my clients are physicians that specialize in oral & maxiofacial health and almost everything that naturally enters the body comes over the dental bridge.

There is no healthcare professional that will see a healthy patient more often than a dentist. The modern dental office is in the perfect position monitor systemic health markers and communicates any noticeable changes with a patient’s medical doc.

Not only will a systemic health program improve the quality of your patient’s lives, but it will raise your standard of care. When implemented correctly it will dramatically improve your patient re-care issues and fill the schedule. By the way, we call it re-care because things like cars are re-called, people are re-cared. So, how do you start your “culture change”? It all starts with what you want to be. Gandhi once said “we are the language we speak”, Stu Leonard once said “packaging is 95% of the sale”. Be your patient’s healthcare confidante. Communicate with their primary care physician and you will save lives while your practice is rapidly growing. Hey, we’re talking about adding 5 minutes and some great medicine to every exam as well as giving the patient a real good incentive to keep their next appointment and respond to your communication.

For more information on systemic health monitoring or if you have any questions or concerns, please contact me at any time.

201-321-7494 or cliff.marsh@henryschein.com.

 

Product Review – New from GC America MI Varnish…………………………………………………

MI Varnish™ releases higher fluoride, calcium and phosphate ions due to the RECALDENT™ (CPP-ACP) Technology* – making it the clinical choice for you, your staff and your patients.

• Enhances acid resistance of enamel and promotes bioavailability of calcium, phosphate and fluoride enriched saliva.

• Smooth, creamy texture allows for even flow over tooth surfaces as well as interproximally.

• Reduces sensitivity by penetrating and sealing into dentinal tubules.

• Use with MI Paste™ and MI Paste Plus™ for a comprehensive preventive system.

Benefits of MI Varnish

• Higher fluoride, calcium and phosphate ions released due to the RECALDENT(CPP-ACP) technology (FIG 4 & FIG 5)

• Reduces sensitivity by sealing and penetrating dentinal tubules effectively blocking out external stimuli

• Enhances acid resistance of enamel and promotes calcium and phosphate enriched saliva

• Flows easily into interproximal areas, due to its low viscosity

• Non-clumping white natural translucent shade

• Excellent retention – stays on longer than the leading varnishes

• Unique unit dose, easier to open, easy to access varnish

• Generous volume per unit dose, enough for a full adult dentition

• Does not immediately clump upon exposure to saliva allowing ease of use and longer working time

• Greater fluoride contact time and increased calcium and phosphate bioavailability than gels, foams and varnishes

• Stands out on tray, easy to identify – brightly colored unit dose

Sunday January 29, 2012 – Give Kids A Smile………………………………………………………….

This Friday, February 3rd, is National Give Kids A Smile Day. This is one of the most heartwarming and heart wrenching days on my calendar.  GKAS is this week’s feature on my YouTube Channel. www.youtube.com/cliffmarsh100  

Take a look at this website and the Dental/Medical Cross Coding features. It’s your future! http://www.dentalwriter.com/

 Log On Now!  www.sleepcomplete.com

Cliff Marsh

Henry Schein Dental

P.O. Box 663 / 45 Rt. 46 East, Suite 605

Pine Brook, NJ 07058

Cell: 201-321-7494

Fax: 201-262-2210

cliff.marsh@henryschein.com

http://www.cliffsnotesblog.me  

http://www.facebook.com/#!/profile.php?id=1644814090

http://www.linkedin.com/pub/cliff-marsh/11/447/44

The Cliff’s Notes Channel http://www.youtube.com/cliffmarsh100

January 29, 2012 Posted by | Uncategorized | Leave a Comment

“Reality Check! You don’t Have Expenses” & “Product Review – Helios 3000″

Cliff’s Notes for January 22, 2012

 

Cliff Marsh, Henry Schein ……Cell: 201-321-7494……Fax: 201-262-2210…..E-mail: cliff.marsh@henryschein.com

http://www.cliffsnotesblog.me

http://www.youtube.com/cliffmarsh100

The reason we do what we do, is so that we can to do what we want to do, when we want to do it!

It’s a tongue twister, but working as a team and making informed decisions, will get us there.

 

 

“We didn’t have any central organization. I came to work and it felt like a zoo with all the cages open”

Les Wexner

(Founder of Limited Brands)

 

 

This Week’s Feature on the Cliff’s Notes Channel

Designing & Building the 21st Century Dental Practice!

http://www.youtube.com/cliffmarsh100

  

In This Week’s Issue

  • It’s Time for a Reality Check – “You Don’t Have Expenses!”
  • Product Review – Helios 3000 LED Overhead Light!
  • DentaCheques & The Dental Lifeline!
  • The Implementation of a Sleep Medicine Program!
  • Commentary for Sunday January 22, 2012


Reality Check! There Are No Expenses!…………………………….

We all want the toys. The reason you own a business is to capitalize on a specific talent that you have. Now don’t get me wrong, a quality dental practice starts with a high standard of care, but at the end of the day it’s all about the houses, cars & boats. So, let’s talk about some of those nasty “expenses” that take away from your disposable income, because they are not expenses.

When writing checks from your business, you may call them expenses, but in reality they are investments. A pay check written to an employee is an investment in that person just like a check written to a lending institution for an equipment lease. Your utility bills, legal fees, supply costs, computers, etc. need to be looked at as investment. Question, what is the return on each of those investments?

Your investment in staff is the number one investment you can make. The New York Yankees are a great example, invest in quality, and put quality on the field every day. The NY Yankees are the most successful and valuable sports franchises in the world.

Staff (employee management) can be a very difficult investment to manage. Most small business owner are reluctant to change (terminate) staff because of the difficulty in replacing them with better quality. The answer to that is to train your staff to your protocol from day one and if they can’t fit the system in 90 days, start looking at the ROI and consider replacing or working around any particular inefficiency.

When bringing on a new employee they need to be presented with, and acknowledge the receipt of, several documents.

  1. An up-to-date employee manual.
  2. An up-to-date written job discretion.
  3. An up-to-date O.H.S.A. written compliance statement.
  4. An up-to-date written office protocol manual.
  5. An up-to-date written patient policy.

The office protocol is the one that directly relates to the return on investment for an employee and that return should be measured in several ways. One of the larger offices I work with has 18 employees and the office runs very efficiently. However, one of the staff members is a “no-it-all” and it creates a little tension at some times. When discussing it with the doc, he felt that the quality of her work, the kindness in her personality and her ability to relate with the patients outweighed the loss of production (tension). He is managing his investment for the best return (ROI).

Why is employee management so important? When you do your taxes this year, take a good look at your P&L statement (profit & loss). The items that affect the largest percentage of the pie should be addressed first. I’ll bet its staff!

There are some constants in business and it is part of my job to keep my clients informed. Managing your staff correctly will help contain costs and increase production. Increased production reduces the footprint of your total overhead on your P&L. The result is more “disposable income” and that’s a good thing. Please contact me at any time with any questions or concerns @ 201-321-7494 or cliff.marsh@henryschein.com.

Product Review – Helios 3000 LED Overhead Light……………..

Consultants’ Comments

  1. “Excellent illumination.”
  2. “Helios 3000 has auto shutoff when you push the light up.”
  3. “Light is heavy and sturdy.”
  4. “The silver on the face of the reflective shield is hard to keep streak free.”

Description

Helios 3000 LED Operating Light is an LED dental light with multiple intensity options and automatic shut-off capabilities. Helios 3000 is available in seven mounting variations: Track, Ceiling, Cabinet, Wall, Post, PMU, and Ellipse Mounted. The light provides advanced positioning capabilities and enhanced ergonomics for precise and efficient illumination of the oral cavity. It features patent-pending LED technology designed to deliver a precisely calibrated 7.6 x 15.2 cm light pattern. The light has long LED life expectancy, virtually no radiant heat, and dual Kelvin settings (5000 and 4200 K) for shade matching. The light has a mode to avoid premature curing of light-activated resin. Helios 3000 was evaluated by 8 consultants in 2200 uses. It received a 97% rating.

Suggested Retail Price depends on mounting variations and ranges between $3,895 for Ellipse System Mounted Light on Curved Post and $4,395 for Track- or Wall-mounted Light.

Equipment Features

Consultants unanimously agreed that Helios 3000 is an attractive, modern-looking light that provides excellent illumination. The auto on/off feature is conveniently activated by raising or lowering the light. The rectangular light pattern sufficiently illuminates the oral cavity without getting in the patient’s eyes. The unit contains a fan for cooling the diodes. The fan noise is minimal and received no negative comments from consultants. Several consultants reported that the silver reflector was difficult to clean without streaking.

Seventy-five percent of consultants reported that Helios 3000 was better than other dental lights and would switch to it and recommend it.

1:47 Add to

Pelton & Crane- Helios 3000hd

DentaCheques………………………………………………………………………..

Year after year, Dental Lifeline Network has worked to provide comprehensive dentistry for society’s most vulnerable individuals; those with disabilities or who are elderly or medically fragile and have no other way to get help. The money raised through the sale of DentaCheques books and other donations generated 23.6 million dollars worth of dental care last year. With a waiting list of 17,000 patients in need, it is imperative that everyone find a way to support the work of Dental Lifeline Network, either by purchasing a book or even volunteering your time and resources.

4:17 Add to

DentaCheques Turns Your Donations in to Dental Care for Those in Need 

4:50 Add to

“A Complex Problem”

  • Each year approximately 9,000 dental offices purchase a DentaCheques book, a tax-deductible charitable contribution. DentaCheques enables dentists to save hundreds, and even thousands, of dollars on purchases of equipment and supplies for their dental practices while providing dental services to vulnerable people who are desperately in need of care. This year’s edition offers $120 in invoice discounts from Henry Schein, over $700 in free products and potentially thousands of dollars of savings. Great gifts for your dental peers, there is no limit on the number of books that can be purchased.
  • Each year 15,000 dentists and 3,200 dental laboratories volunteer their time and resources providing dental services on behalf of Dental Lifeline Network. Volunteering is easy with Dental Lifeline Network coordinating all arrangements with the patient in advance. The dentist simply reviews the patient profile prior to appointment, with the ability to decline the case for any reason, and then sees the patient in his/her own office to determine the treatment plan. Dental Lifeline Network will arrange for specialists and donated lab work as needed.
  • Each year hundreds of companies and individuals make donations to Dental Lifeline Network. Although the revenue from the sale of DentaCheques books supplies a major source of funding for the organization, additional donations are still a critical component to the success of Dental Lifeline Network. For every $1 in general operating support, the Dental Lifeline Network provides $9 in charitable treatment and other direct-care program services. This would not be possible without the support of the dental professionals, the dental industry, and dental laboratories who donate.

Add a DentaCheques Book to your next order, you’ll save money and the cost ($149.00) is 100% tax deductable. Oh, remember, you’re helping a neighbor.

Log onto the Dental Lifeline Network.

http://dentacheques.org/index.php?dcsid=brmh1f6qlaoe7u8jo8vcrmi8m1

   
  The Sleep Complete Program……………………………………“The Implementation of a Sleep Medicine Program”February 10th & 11th (12thfor those who observe) a hands-on session will be held in NYC @ the Marriott Marque. The session offers 14 CE and covers everything an Oral Health professional needs to know. The dental industry has never been presented a program this complete.

 

Successful Implementation of Dental Sleep Medicine

For Dentists and Their Team!

Course Description:

  • Referrals and Marketing for Dental Sleep Medicine
  • Learn to Communicate with Physicians
  • Medicare – Fact, Fiction and Correct Coding
  • Home Sleep Testing and Snoring
  • Screening for Obstructive Sleep Apnea
  • How does Oral Appliance Therapy help treat OSA
  • The best Appliance Designs
  • Implementation of Office Flow and Integrate Dental Sleep Medicine into your Practice
  • Medical Billing and Medicare: Getting Paid
  • Hands on live history taking and exam for the entire dental team
  • Scheduling, Forms, Letters and Documents

 

At the end of this course, participants should be able to:

  • Build and maintain a solid dental sleep medicine program
  • Understand how to select an appliance
  • Communicate with MD’s and develop referrals
  • Bill Medical Insurance

Price is for the dentist and up to two staff members at no charge!

 

Two days: $1999.00 for Dentist and 2 individuals – (14 CE’s)

 

Friday
Registration & Continental Breakfast:  7:30 AM
Start Time :  8:00 AM – End Time :  5:00 PM

Saturday*
Registration & Continental Breakfast:  7:30 AM
Start Time :  8:00 AM
End Time :  4:00 PM

*Sunday

Repeat of Saturday’s Program for those that observe.

 
Refund and Cancellation Policies:  Cancellations are to be made in writing. All paid registration fee will be refunded at 100% for cancellations received 14 days prior to start of course. An assessment fee of $250.00 will be taken for cancellations received after this time. This course provider reserves the right to cancel a course or to provide a substitute instructor if conditions warrant. All registration fees will be returned if the course is cancelled.

   

For more information & free webinar access log on to

www.sleepcomplete,com.

 

Sunday January 22, 2012……………………………….

 Log On Now!  www.sleepcomplete.com

Take a look at this website and the Dental/Medical Cross Coding features. It’s your future! http://www.dentalwriter.com/

January 23, 2012 Posted by | Uncategorized | Leave a Comment

“A Sleep Medicine Seminar!” & “What is a DentaCheques?”

Cliff’s Notes for January 15, 2012

Cliff Marsh, Henry Schein ……Cell: 201-321-7494……Fax: 201-262-2210…..E-mail: cliff.marsh@henryschein.com

http://www.cliffsnotesblog.me

http://www.youtube.com/cliffmarsh100

 

The reason we do what we do, is so that we can to do what we want to do, when we want to do it!

It’s a tongue twister, but working as a team and making informed decisions, will get us there.

 

It is impossible to win the race unless you venture to run, and impossible to win the victory unless you dare to battle.

Richard M. DeVos

 

This Week’s Feature on the Cliff’s Notes Channel

The National Dental Lifeline”

The 2012 NDLT DentaCheques Book is now available through Henry Schein (part #108-1812).

All proceeds go directly to the NDLT, please help support their efforts.

http://www.youtube.com/cliffmarsh100

 

 

In This Week’s Issue

  • The Implementation of a Sleep Medicine Program!
  • Your Dental Practice is More Than Just Fixing Teeth!
  • DentaCheques & The Dental Lifeline!
  • Commentary for Sunday January 15, 2012

 

The Sleep Complete Program…………………………………………….

“The Implementation of a Sleep Medicine Program”

February 10th & 11th (12th for those who observe) a hands-on session will be held in NYC @ the Marriott Marque. The session offers 14 CE and covers everything an Oral Health professional needs to know. The dental industry has never been presented a program this complete.

Successful Implementation of Dental Sleep Medicine

For Dentists and Their Team!

Course Description:

  • Referrals and Marketing for Dental Sleep Medicine
  • Learn to Communicate with Physicians
  • Medicare – Fact, Fiction and Correct Coding
  • Home Sleep Testing and Snoring
  • Screening for Obstructive Sleep Apnea
  • How does Oral Appliance Therapy help treat OSA
  • The best Appliance Designs
  • Implementation of Office Flow and Integrate Dental Sleep Medicine into your Practice
  • Medical Billing and Medicare: Getting Paid
  • Hands on live history taking and exam for the entire dental team
  • Scheduling, Forms, Letters and Documents

 

At the end of this course, participants should be able to:

  • Build and maintain a solid dental sleep medicine program
  • Understand how to select an appliance
  • Communicate with MD’s and develop referrals
  • Bill Medical Insurance

Price is for the dentist and up to two staff members at no charge!

Two days: $1999.00 for Dentist and 2 individuals – (14 CE’s)

Friday
Registration & Continental Breakfast:  7:30 AM
Start Time :  8:00 AM – End Time :  5:00 PM

Saturday*
Registration & Continental Breakfast:  7:30 AM
Start Time :  8:00 AM
End Time :  4:00 PM

*Sunday

Repeat of Saturday’s Program for those that observe.

Refund and Cancellation Policies:  Cancellations are to be made in writing. All paid registration fee will be refunded at 100% for cancellations received 14 days prior to start of course. An assessment fee of $250.00 will be taken for cancellations received after this time. This course provider reserves the right to cancel a course or to provide a substitute instructor if conditions warrant. All registration fees will be returned if the course is cancelled

www.sleepcomplete,com.

Your Dental Practice – It’s More Than Fixing Teeth……………………………………………………..

Don’t you wish that all you had to do was dentistry? Your world is creating and re-creating chairside and the business side of you practice is the “necessary evil”. This is the part of the business that most dentists don’t understand and that’s OK as long as you are willing to listen to experts in the industry.

Most of us get embarrassed when we don’t understand something that people think we should. As a business owner, you are responsible for everything and that can be a difficult task. That’s why you need management advice. Every successful organization has expert advisors that provide the information from different sides of the table so that the CEO can make “informed” decisions. I don’t care how successful you are; you can always use the clear & honest advice from an industry expert that can look in from the outside and be objective. A good practice advisor will tell you what you don’t want to hear.

When taking control of your business in 2012, start with a private review of your employees. This means being critical and weighting pros & cons. Nothing good can happen in an organization unless the staff is motivated and managed. When I say manage, I am saying professionally and legally. Do you have an employee manual? Did you review it with your staff? Did you have them sign off on receiving and understanding it? Did you give them a copy and put the original in their “employee file”? And, most important, did you provide a written job description with a company “mission statement”. I’ll bet that you don’t have a printed mission statement; in fact, you probably don’t know why you need it. Again, that’s ok as long as you are interested in an answer.

Most dentists I know don’t have up to-date business files let alone anything staff related. For some reason they are afraid to offend their employees by insisting on the acceptance of written rules. Blame it on your accountant, lawyer or payroll company but get it done. It is that important.

If you would like to talk about how to get started motivating and managing your staff, please feel free to contact me at any time @ 201-321-7494 or e-mail:

cliff.marsh@henryschein.com.

Product Review – DentaCheques………………………………………………………………………………………………..

Year after year, Dental Lifeline Network has worked to provide comprehensive dentistry for society’s most vulnerable individuals; those with disabilities or who are elderly or medically fragile and have no other way to get help. The money raised through the sale of DentaCheques books and other donations generated 23.6 million dollars worth of dental care last year. With a waiting list of 17,000 patients in need, it is imperative that everyone find a way to support the work of Dental Lifeline Network, either by purchasing a book or even volunteering your time and resources.

4:17 Add to

DentaCheques Turns Your Donations in to Dental Care for Those in Need

4:50 Add to

“A Complex Problem”

Advertisement

  • Each year approximately 9,000 dental offices purchase a DentaCheques book, a tax-deductible charitable contribution. DentaCheques enables dentists to save hundreds, and even thousands, of dollars on purchases of equipment and supplies for their dental practices while providing dental services to vulnerable people who are desperately in need of care. This year’s edition offers $120 in invoice discounts from Henry Schein, over $700 in free products and potentially thousands of dollars of savings. Great gifts for your dental peers, there is no limit on the number of books that can be purchased.
  • Each year 15,000 dentists and 3,200 dental laboratories volunteer their time and resources providing dental services on behalf of Dental Lifeline Network. Volunteering is easy with Dental Lifeline Network coordinating all arrangements with the patient in advance. The dentist simply reviews the patient profile prior to appointment, with the ability to decline the case for any reason, and then sees the patient in his/her own office to determine the treatment plan. Dental Lifeline Network will arrange for specialists and donated lab work as needed.
  • Each year hundreds of companies and individuals make donations to Dental Lifeline Network. Although the revenue from the sale of DentaCheques books supplies a major source of funding for the organization, additional donations are still a critical component to the success of Dental Lifeline Network. For every $1 in general operating support, the Dental Lifeline Network provides $9 in charitable treatment and other direct-care program services. This would not be possible without the support of the dental professionals, the dental industry, and dental laboratories who donate.

Add a DentaCheques Book to your next order, you’ll save money and the cost ($149.00) is 100% tax deductable. Oh, remember, you’re helping a neighbor.

 Log onto the Dental Lifeline Network.

http://dentacheques.org/index.php?dcsid=brmh1f6qlaoe7u8jo8vcrmi8m1

Sunday January 15, 2012…………………………………………………………………………………..

30 days until pictures and catchers report to baseball spring training!

30 days until the Boys of Summer are back!

60 days until the Ides of March (et tu Brute?)!

90 days until the tax man! Did you have to send them money? If you did, we need to talk.

Hey, the winter almost over so what’s your plan for 2012?

Log On Now!  www.sleepcomplete.com

Take a look at this website and the Dental/Medical Cross Coding features. It’s your future! http://www.dentalwriter.com/

Cliff Marsh

Henry Schein Dental

P.O. Box 663 / 45 Rt. 46 East, Suite 605

Pine Brook, NJ 07058

Cell: 201-321-7494

Fax: 201-262-2210

cliff.marsh@henryschein.com

http://www.cliffsnotesblog.me  

http://www.facebook.com/#!/profile.php?id=1644814090

http://www.linkedin.com/pub/cliff-marsh/11/447/44

The Cliff’s Notes Channel http://www.youtube.com/cliffmarsh100

January 15, 2012 Posted by | Uncategorized | Leave a Comment

“Putting Patients Back in the Chair” & “The Moses Patient Appliance”

Cliff’s Notes for January 9, 2012

Cliff Marsh, Henry Schein ……Cell: 201-321-7494……Fax: 201-262-2210…..E-mail: cliff.marsh@henryschein.com

http://www.cliffsnotesblog.me

http://www.youtube.com/cliffmarsh100

The reason we do what we do, is so that we can to do what we want to do, when we want to do it!

It’s a tongue twister, but working as a team and making informed decisions, will get us there.

 

 

“A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty”

Winston Churchill

 

This Week’s Feature on the Cliff’s Notes Channel

 Diagnostics – Dentists Save Lives!

We have entered a new world of preventive medicine & dentistry will be the cutting edge. 

http://www.youtube.com/cliffmarsh100

 

In This Week’s Issue

  • Total Health – Log-On Now!
  • Priority #1 – Putting Patients in the Chair!
  • Product Review – The Moses Patient Appliance!
  • Commentary for Sunday January 9, 2012 – Changing The Culture.

 

Total Health & Beyond – The Sleep Complete Program…….
Log On Now! www.sleepcomplete.com

15 years ago I told everyone that they would be required to have an amalgam separator and nobody listened until the last minute. 3 years ago I started warning everyone about January 1, 2015 and the need to connect to the National Healthcare Information Infrastructure and computerization, I hope you listened. Now I’m telling you that Sleep medicine will become a major topic over the next 18 months. Medical insurance coding is in place for dentists and the added healthcare services that you can offer will raise your standard of care and look real nice on your bottom line. You need to be informed! Log on NOW, the webinars are FREE!

Priority #1 – Putting Patients in the Chair………………….

“I need more patients” is what I hear in every dental office I walk into. On every DPAT report I run for clients, the re-care issues light up like a neon sign. So, how do we address this? The first thing you need to do is separate your marketing strategies into 2 programs.

The first program should target your current patient base. This is the easiest & least expensive and offers the biggest ROI. Now I know you are collecting patient e-mail addresses & cell phone numbers because that’s the only way you will be able to communicate with them; and you will need to actively communicate. There are a lot of different communication programs on the market. Some are very inexpensive, however the services are limited. You can’t consider these programs as expenses, you need to think about them as investments, and what is the ROI on that investment. The programs that I review have been selected because I believe they are top quality and when used correctly offer the highest rate of return.

Communication with your current patient base: If you’re fortunate enough to have Dentrix Software, there is a module that will automatically send e-mails & Tx’s to your patients. If you don’t have Dentrix, I would recommend a “Demand Force” style program.. These programs remind the patient about appointments and request a response. My dentist uses it. I get reminded via e-mail and my family requested Tx’s. When linked to your website & social networks, your current patient base will respond with better compliance and your schedule will be more consistent.

Your connection to the internet needs to be constant, consistent and complete. That means a website, social network page and reputation monitoring. How often have you Goggled your own name?

Take a look at this video and then call me. The new world is here and it’s not that hard to jump in. 201-321-7494 or cliff.marsh@henryschein.com.

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JxM66OTUw8w   2:52 Add to Demandforce D3

Patient Retention: Incentives are a must. You may not believe this, but a visit to the dentist is not high on anyone’s priority list so you need to make it a pleasant experience. This may require an office “culture change” and should not be attempted alone. An independent and objective third party needs to weigh-in. Sometimes you’re just too close to the forest to see the path through the trees. Your “pleasant patient experience” may not be objective.

You need to start with the staff. Marketing 101 “packaging is 95% of the sale”! Spend some money and buy each clinical staff member 5 sets of matching “fashion” scrubs in 5 different colors. Each week day has its color and everyone dresses the same (except the doc and business office staff). This sounds corny, but it reflects a unified team. Name nags are also needed. You will notice that the staff will begin acting more like a team and if they can’t, you made need to change the line-up. Remember, team harmony is important, your patients can sense tension and tension is not good in a dental office.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yd_2_vhPuhI  4:29 Add to – Kerry Straine has been recognized by “Dr. Bicuspid” as one of the top dental practice consultants in the country. If you have any questions about uniting your team and office culture, please feel free to contact me at any time @ 201-321-7494 or cliff.marsh@henryschein.com. I can also arrange a 1 hour telephone consult with Kerry with no cost or obligation.

A real nice incentive program is Loyal Patient. Take a look at www.loyalpatient.com and tell them Cliff sent you.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vE3MNju1p6w 2:32 Add to

Dentist Rewards Patients!

A dentist is using Loyal Patient™ Rewards (savings on travel, entertainment, and merchandise) to reward patients for good oral health.

The second program is the larger investment, external marketing for new patients (i.e. Demandforce). This requires a lot of work and attention. You need to utilize the standard and new media’s formats. Face Book, Twitter, interactive websites, etc. The idea of this program is to grow the number of patients in the 1st program and realize the higher ROI.

The most important thing to remember is that any program you put in place takes time to work. There are no silver bullets. Please feel free to contact me at any time if you have any questions or concerns.

Product Review – The Moses Patient Appliance……………..

Sleep Medicine can be a life saving function of the dental health professional. You need to look at the new programs so that you are prepared to answer the questions your patients will start asking. If you don’t know the answers, the office down the street will.

 http://themoses.com/

This new, innovative device adds another dimension to oral-appliance therapy. Stimulating protrusive tongue reflexes and an open anterior design advances the tongue and enlarges the cross-sectional area of the airway. Combined with mandibular advancement, it becomes the most effective appliance available. Two-part construction allows patients to talk, drink, open wide and close their lips, making this the most comfortable appliance available.

Below are Technical Bulletins that you will find useful when prescribing The Moses appliance. Please click on the links to learn more.

The Moses Appliance is part of Sleep Dynamics. The product has received a top rating from the CRA and the results will soon be published.

“The Implementation of a Sleep Medicine Program”

February 10th & 11th (12th for those who observe) a hands-on session will be held in NYC @ the Marriott Marque.

For more information & free webinar access log on to www.sleepcomplete,com.

 

Sunday January 9, 2012……………………………….

Nothing is ever routine. Every patient, every exam is unique and special. In 2012 you need to stop being a “Dentist” and start being an “Oral Healthcare Specialist”. Welcome to the new world of medicine and dentistry is on the front line.

Take a look at this website and the Dental/Medical Cross Coding features. It’s your future!

http://www.dentalwriter.com/

Enjoy the day, your family & the weather,

Cliff

Cliff Marsh

Henry Schein Dental

P.O. Box 663 / 45 Rt. 46 East, Suite 605

Pine Brook, NJ 07058

Cell: 201-321-7494

Fax: 201-262-2210

cliff.marsh@henryschein.com

http://www.cliffsnotesblog.me  

http://www.facebook.com/#!/profile.php?id=1644814090

http://www.linkedin.com/pub/cliff-marsh/11/447/44

The Cliff’s Notes Channel http://www.youtube.com/cliffmarsh100

January 8, 2012 Posted by | Uncategorized | Leave a Comment

“Total Health” / “Medelita Fashions” / Easy Eddie did Good!”

Cliff’s Notes for January 1, 2012

Cliff Marsh, Henry Schein ……Cell: 201-321-7494……Fax: 201-262-2210…..E-mail: cliff.marsh@henryschein.com

http://www.cliffsnotesblog.me

http://www.youtube.com/cliffmarsh100

 

The reason we do what we do, is so that we can to do what we want to do, when we want to do it!

It’s a tongue twister, but working as a team and making informed decisions, will get us there.

 

 

 

“I never had a policy; I have just tried to do my very best each and every day.”

Abraham Lincoln

 

This Week’s Feature on the Cliff’s Notes Channel

 “The Story of Butch O’Hare & The Congressional Medal of Honor”

&

“The Twisted File”

http://www.youtube.com/cliffmarsh100

 

 

In This Week’s Issue

  • Total Health – Log-On Now!
  • Product Review – Medelita Fashions!
  • Commentary for the New Year…Easy Eddie did Good!

 

Total Health & Beyond – The Sleep Complete Program……………………………………….


Log On Now! www.sleepcomplete.com

 

Product Review – Medelita Fashions for the Dental Office……………………………………………….

Henry Schein understands that a professional presentation of office personnel is essential in building patient confidence. Pages #931 – #951 of our 2011-2012 catalog features some of the most current & flattering apparel for the fashion conscious healthcare professional. Enjoy the shopping!

Nurse Mates – Jockey – Grey’s Anatomy – NRG – Landau – Fashion Seal – Meta & Denline

And Our Featured Fashion Line – Medelita

Click here for the Store Tour:  http://henryschein.medelita.com/index.html

 

 Elsie G. Women’s Lab Coat by Medelita

The most flattering dental lab coat available. OSHA compliant, cuffed sleeves, and an optional closure at the neck. Feminine waist detail, pleated…

 Fauchard Men’s Dental Lab Coat by Medelita

Medelita Men’s is proud to introduce a true men’s dental lab coat. Adhering to OSHA policy with rib cuffed sleeves and optional closure to the neck…

Sunday January 1, 2012………………………………………………………………………….

Sometimes you just got to do the right thing. At this time of year I enjoy re-reading to touching stories that have a common interest. Both men did the right thing in a world that had gone wrong. I hope you enjoy.

Story #1

Many years ago, Al Capone virtually owned Chicago. Capone wasn’t famous
for anything heroic. He was notorious for enmeshing the windy city in
everything from bootlegged booze and prostitution to murder.

Capone had a lawyer nicknamed “Easy Eddie.” He was Capone’s lawyer for a
good reason. Eddie was very good! In fact, Eddie’s skill at legal
maneuvering kept Big Al out of jail for a long time.

To show his appreciation, Capone paid him very well. Not only was the
money big, but Eddie got special dividends, as well. For instance, he and his
family occupied a fenced-in mansion with live-in help and all of the
conveniences of the day. The estate was so large that it filled an entire
Chicago City block.

Eddie lived the high life of the Chicago mob and gave little consideration to the atrocity that went on around him. Eddie did have one soft spot, however. He had a son that he loved dearly.

Eddie saw to it that his young son had clothes, cars, and a good
education. Nothing was withheld.  Price was no object. And, despite his involvement with organized crime, Eddie even tried to teach him right from wrong.  Eddie wanted his son to be a better man than he was.

Yet, with all his wealth and influence, there were two things he couldn’t
give his son; he couldn’t pass on a good name or a good example.

One day, Easy Eddie reached a difficult decision. Easy Eddie wanted to
 rectify wrongs he had done.

He decided he would go to the authorities and tell the truth about Al
“Scarface” Capone, clean up his tarnished name, and offer his son some
semblance of integrity. To do this, he would have to testify against The
Mob, and he knew that the cost would be great. So, he testified.

Within the year, Easy Eddie’s life ended in a blaze of gunfire on a lonely
Chicago Street.  But in his eyes, he had given his son the greatest gift
he had to offer, at the greatest price he could ever pay. Police removed from his pockets a rosary, a crucifix, a religious medallion, and a poem clipped from a magazine. The poem read.

The clock of life is wound but once, and no man has the power to tell just when the hands will stop, at late or early hour. Now is the only time you own. Live, love, toil with a will. Place no faith in time. For the clock may soon be still.”

 STORY NUMBER TWO

World War II produced many heroes. One such man was Lieutenant Commander
Butch O’Hare. He was a fighter pilot assigned to the aircraft carrier Lexington in the
South Pacific.

One day his entire squadron was sent on a mission. After he was airborne,
he looked at his fuel gauge and realized that someone had forgotten to top
off his fuel tank. He would not have enough fuel to complete his mission and get back to his
ship.

His flight leader told him to return to the carrier. Reluctantly, he dropped out of formation and headed back to the fleet.

As he was returning to the mother ship, he saw something that turned his blood cold; a squadron of Japanese aircraft was speeding its way toward
the American fleet.

The American fighters were gone on a sortie, and the fleet was all but defenseless. He couldn’t reach his squadron and bring them back in time to save the fleet. Nor could he warn the fleet of the approaching danger. 

There was only one thing to do. He must somehow divert them from the fleet.
Laying aside all thoughts of personal safety, he dove into the formation
of Japanese planes. Wing-mounted 50 caliber’s blazed as he charged in,
attacking one surprised enemy plane and then another. Butch wove in and
out of the now broken formation and fired at as many planes as possible until all his ammunition was finally spent.

Undaunted, he continued the assault. He dove at the planes, trying to clip
a wing or tail in hopes of damaging as many enemy planes as possible, rendering them unfit to fly. Finally, the exasperated Japanese squadron took off in another direction.

Deeply relieved, Butch O’Hare and his tattered fighter limped back to the
carrier.

Upon arrival, he reported in and related the event surrounding his return.
The film from the gun-camera mounted on his plane told the tale. It showed
the extent of Butch’s daring attempt to protect his fleet.  He had,
in fact, destroyed five enemy aircraft.

This took place on February 20, 1942 , and for that action Butch became
the Navy’s first Ace of W.W.II, and the first Naval Aviator to win the
Congressional Medal of Honor.

A year later Butch was killed in aerial combat at the age of 29. His home
town would not allow the memory of this WW II hero to fade, and today,
O’Hare Airport in Chicago is named in tribute to the courage of this great man.

So, the next time you find yourself at O’Hare International, give some thought to visiting Butch’s memorial displaying his statue and his Medal of Honor. It’s located between Terminals 1 & 2.

SO WHAT DO THESE TWO STORIES HAVE TO DO WITH EACH OTHER?

 

Butch O’Hare was Easy Eddie’s Son…….True Story!

 

 

From my family to yours, have a warm, safe and peaceful New Year!………………………….

Cliff Marsh

Henry Schein Dental

P.O. Box 663 / 45 Rt. 46 East, Suite 605

Pine Brook, NJ 07058

Cell: 201-321-7494

Fax: 201-262-2210

cliff.marsh@henryschein.com

http://www.cliffsnotesblog.me  

http://www.facebook.com/#!/profile.php?id=1644814090

http://www.linkedin.com/pub/cliff-marsh/11/447/44

The Cliff’s Notes Channel http://www.youtube.com/cliffmarsh100

January 1, 2012 Posted by | Uncategorized | Leave a Comment

“The Sleep Complete Program” / “Embezzlement – Part 2″ / “Product Review – Dimanto”

Cliff’s Notes for December 25, 2011

 

Cliff Marsh, Henry Schein ……Cell: 201-321-7494……Fax: 201-262-2210…..E-mail: cliff.marsh@henryschein.com

http://www.cliffsnotesblog.me

http://www.youtube.com/cliffmarsh100

 

The reason we do what we do, is so that we can to do what we want to do, when we want to do it!

It’s a tongue twister, but working as a team and making informed decisions, will get us there.

 

 “I love sleep. My life has the tendency to fall apart when I’m awake”

Ernest Hemingway

 

This Week’s Feature on the Cliff’s Notes Channel

“Watch-Pat 2000 Sleep Diagnostics”

http://www.youtube.com/cliffmarsh100

 

In This Week’s Issue

  • Total Health & Beyond – Sleep Complete is Here!
  • Embezzlement – Part 2, Prevention!
  • Product Review – Dimanto One-Step Polishers by VOCO
  • Commentary for Sunday, December 25, 2011

 Total Health & Beyond – The Sleep Complete Program………………………..

 EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS:  Sleep Complete now offers you a number of opportunities to learn about Dental Sleep Medicine:

 One Hour FREE LIVE webinar programs are designed to provide an overview of Dental Sleep Medicine and the Sleep Complete program. These programs will be available on the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 8pm (EST).  To register, just go to the following link: http://totalhealthlearning.com/. If you cannot make a LIVE presentation, the webinar will be available for your viewing at anytime by just going to http://totalhealthlearning.com/.

 Two hour LIVE Presentations are designed to provide additional dental sleep medicine information to customers that have a legitimate interest in going forward. Jen McGuire and Al Simon are developing a Sleep Complete “Presentation in a Box” that will be used at these center level programs. We’ll be working with your RM’s shortly to nail down the precise schedule.

 The Two-Day Implementation Seminar entitled, “Successful Implementation of Dental Sleep Medicine” is the Gold Standard in implementation programs within this growing market. It is part of the Sleep Complete Implementation Package, but many of your customers may want to attend before making a total commitment to Sleep Complete. Those customers will be able to sign up for this program separately. The tuition is $1,999.99 and includes the dentist and up to two staff members. It also provides vital hands-on training for the staff in the use of Dental Writer software for reimbursement under medical insurance. 

 Currently, there are twelve (12) Two-Day Implementation Programs scheduled throughout 2012 under Nierman Practice Management and Sleep Complete. The programs are;

Date Location
   
February 10-11, 2012 Metro New York
February 17-18, 2012 San Diego, CA
March 16-17, 2012 Boston, MA
April 20-21, 2012 Chicago, IL
April 27-28, 2012 Atlanta, GA
June 1-2, 2012 Los Angeles, CA
July 13-14, 2012 Washington, DC
July 20-21, 2012 Houston, TX
September 14-15, 2012 Orlando, FL
September 21-22 Seattle, WA
October 12-13, 2012 Dallas, TX
November 9-10, 2012 San Francisco, CA

 The Metro New York introductory program will be held at the Marriot Marque Hotel on Broadway. If you would like to register for any of these courses, please call Dental Writer at: (800) 879-6468 or go directly to the following link:

http://dentalwriter.com/Events_list.aspx?node=education; Select the course of your choice and hit “Register Now”.

 Embezzlement – Part 2 – Prevention……………………………………………..

RECOMMENDED STEPS TO PREVENTING EMPLOYEE THEFT

1. Develop Written Policy for the “Handling of Office Receipts”    

Include:

a)      Who does daily Petty Cash Reconciliation?

b)      b opens mail (Patient Payments?)

c)      Who does daily deposits?

d)     When checks are stamped for deposit, who posts payments? – Should be different from Person who does #3.-“Deposits”.

e)      Who authorizes adjustments/write-offs/refunds?

f)       Require daily reports.

g)      Who signs all checks? – Should be the doctor.  If done with signature stamp, Dr. must control.

h)      Who mails payments after doctor signs checks? Nobody else should touch check.

i)        Who handles payroll?

j)        Where does the “Unopened” Bank Statements go? – Either to Dr.’s residence or directly to accountant.

Statement: “Theft of office receipts, whether outright theft, fraud or embezzlement, will be legally prosecuted”.

2. Check and understand security settings for computer software.

3. We advise you discuss these recommended changes with your accountant who should provide additional assistance. This will allow you to tell your staff “your accountant” has advised implementing the new policy for all of his/her clients, thereby negating the influence of a changed policy and the chance that it may damage the doctor-staff relationship.

Accusing an employee of theft is very dangerous. False accusations can lead to massive law suits. I have seen this happen many times. It is imperative that you consult your accountant/financial advisor and your attorney and/or an employment law specialist. This is not a time to watch pennies because you may be losing dollars. Talk to experts.

For more information on securing your systems and managing employees, please feel free to contact me at any time @ 201-321-7494 or cliff.marsh@henryschein.com.

Product Review – Dimanto One-Step Finishing & Polishing System………….

 The award of Editors’ Choice signifies the most unique and significant product in the issue. The editors review each product and clinical evaluation article scheduled for an issue and then select the issue’s Editors’ Choice.

 Dimanto by VOCO America, Inc.

888.658.2584
www.vocoamerica.com

 Consultants’ Comments

“Concentric wheels – good selection of shapes.”

“Firm, reusable tips – they do not degrade quickly.”

“Produces polish without a lot of pressure.”

“Good polish after repeated sterilization cycles.”

“Infection control recommendations in the instructions are not relevant to US standards.”

 Description:

Dimanto is a one-step polishing system for pre-polishing and high-gloss polishing of composite restorations. The diamond-interspersed silicone polishers are suitable for repeated use. The recommended speed is 3,000-8,000 rpm. Dimanto can be used with or without water spray. Dimanto is provided in a five-piece kit containing a small point, a large point, a small cup, a large cup, and a lens. These are also available individually in 10-piece kits. Dimanto was evaluated by 27 consultants in 676 uses. It received a 96% clinical rating.

 Product Features:

Dimanto polishers were easy to use to achieve high gloss on composite restorations. The polishers were durable and maintained their shapes, even after repeated usage and sterilization. Consultants were pleased with the gloss produced by Dimanto, particularly when used with water spray. The selection of shapes is ideal, and the sizes are small enough to polish detailed anatomy of the restoration. The polishers are re-usable after sterilization. Thirty-seven percent of consultants reported that Dimanto was better than their current composite polishing system and 48% reported that it was equivalent. Sixty-three percent would switch to Dimanto and 89% would recommend it.

Clinical Tips:

 Do not use at speeds exceeding 20,000 rpm.

 Do not use at speeds exceeding 20,000 rpm.

 Works best following finishing with a fine diamond or carbide bur.
More About: VOCO America, Inc., Finishing and Polishing

 

Sunday December 25, 2011……………………………………………………….

1:26 Add to

The Lord’s Bright Blessing (reprise)

Mr. Magoo Christmas Carol

 

It’s the 5th day of the 8 Crazy Nights!

3:56 Add to

Adam Sandler – 1996 Hanukkah

& Festivus for the rest of us! Enjoy your day!

Cliff Marsh

Henry Schein Dental

P.O. Box 663 / 45 Rt. 46 East, Suite 605

Pine Brook, NJ 07058

Cell: 201-321-7494

Fax: 201-262-2210

cliff.marsh@henryschein.com

http://www.cliffsnotesblog.me  

http://www.facebook.com/#!/profile.php?id=1644814090

http://www.linkedin.com/pub/cliff-marsh/11/447/44

The Cliff’s Notes Channel http://www.youtube.com/cliffmarsh100

December 25, 2011 Posted by | Uncategorized | Leave a Comment

“Total Health & Beyond” / “Embezzlement” / Product Review – Quick Up”

Cliff’s Notes for December 18, 2011

Cliff Marsh, Henry Schein ……Cell: 201-321-7494……Fax: 201-262-2210…..E-mail: cliff.marsh@henryschein.com

http://www.cliffsnotesblog.me

http://www.youtube.com/cliffmarsh100

 

The  reason we do what we do, is so that we can to do what we want to do, when we want to do it!

It’s a tongue twister, but working as a team and making informed decisions, will get us there.

 

 

“The secret of successful managing is to keep the 5 guys that hate you away from the 4 guys who haven’t made up their minds.”

Casey Stengel, Manager NY Yankees

 

 

This Week’s Feature on the Cliff’s Notes Channel

 “Detecting Oral Cancer”

http://www.youtube.com/cliffmarsh100

 

In This Week’s Issue

  • What’s New for 2012? Total Health & Beyond!
  • Embezzlement, It Can’t Happen to You – NOT!
  • Product Review – Quick Up (Implant secure hold for composite-based dentures)!
  • Commentary for Sunday, December 18, 2011 – It’s Fetivus for the Rest of Us!

 

Total Health & Beyond!…………………………………………………………………

Henry Schein’s Total Health™ Beyond the Mouth program — This is an integrated wellness and education program that informs patients of the integral link between oral health and total health, and assists dental professionals in uncovering potential systemic health problems, including periodontal disease, oral cancer, sleep disorders, heart disease, and diabetes.

Developed in collaboration with the American Academy for Oral Systemic Health, an organization of health care leaders and health professionals dedicated to the relationship of oral health and whole body health, Henry Schein Dental’s Total Health Beyond the Mouth includes the Total Health Checklist, which, together with screening and diagnostics, assists dental professionals in uncovering health problems, assessing a patient’s oral health, and its impact on their total health.

After completing the checklist, patients are given the Total Health Brochure, a powerful educational tool about the integral relationship between oral health and total health, the significance of periodontal disease, and the close links between other health conditions and oral health. If any potential issues are uncovered through the dental team’s review of the checklist, the patient is provided with a laminated Total Health Patient Guide to prepare for a health discussion following treatment, including discussing further screening and treatment options.

Henry Schein’s Sleep Complete™ — Sleep apnea is a serious problem worldwide and one that is drawing more attention within the dental community. To address it, three leading companies are joining with Henry Schein to provide Sleep Complete, a new comprehensive solution for dentists to incorporate sleep medicine into their practices.

Providing all of the information and products necessary for the successful implementation of dental sleep medicine into the dental practice, the program was developed in collaboration with Nierman Practice Management, Modern Dental Laboratory USA, and Itamar Medical.

Henry Schein Dental’s Sleep Complete program provides tools to address all of the key components of dental sleep medicine —education, treatment, reimbursement, and monitoring.

Sleep Complete – Everything You Need:

No other sleep program provides everything a dentist needs in one complete package. Most dentists struggle with implementing sleep, not sure how to select an oral appliance, what the rules on home testing are, how to bill medical insurance, and how to market this new service. Sleep Complete includes training that prepares dentists and their teams to do all of the above and more.

With the best products on the market:

…Dental Writer from Nierman Practice Management

…WatchPAT Home Sleep Monitoring Device from Itamar Medical

…Moses and EMA Myerson Appliances from Modern Dental Laboratory USA

…Training from Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine,

    Dr. John Tucker

We’ve done all the product research, so you don’t have to! Our solution is comprehensive and complete. On January 1, 2012 this new frontier opens wide. Maybe it’s time to bring a wellness program into your practice; it puts your patients back in the chair.

For more information, click here and in the comments box enter

Code: cliffmarsh-fsc/nj35

We Do That!

http://www.henryschein.com/us-en/sites/wedothat/wellness.html

Seminar Schedule:

http://www.dentalwriter.com/Events_list.aspx?node=education

CE Webinar:

http://www.totalhealthlearning.com/

 

Embezzlement, It Can’t Happen to You – NOT!………………………………….

As a practice owner (also known as a “business owner”), a dentist will face a multitude of business related tasks, issues and challenges.  However, the rewards far exceed the drawbacks to business ownership.  But there will be challenges.

One of these potential challenges a dental practice owner faces is possible employee theft.  Depending on the source checked, estimates for the number of dentists who will experience theft at least once during their dental career range from thirty-five to fifty percent (35-50%).  Estimates of dollar loss range from $100 to $500,000+.  This loss due to employee dishonesty may take the form of out-right theft, fraud, or embezzlement. 

The good news:  with certain minimal protective measures, the majority of this theft is preventable.  The key is to understand where the potential exists for theft to occur and implementing the necessary strategies to prevent this loss.

Meet the Thieves

First on our list is “Jane the Eraser” (her name has been changed to protect the guilty). Jane simply withheld any cash payments that were made for services and then erased the patient’s account information after posting the payment (and giving the patient a receipt), thereby removing any record of the payment from the system. 

How was she caught?  She Quit!  During the first couple weeks after her departure, the doctor noticed that although there was no significant increase in production, there was a definite increase in receipts.  Upon further investigation, the doctor discovered that the computer records for several patients seen during Jane’s last week of employment no longer existed.  

Estimated loss- $50,000+ over a three year period.  The doctor recovered $25,000 from his office insurance plan.  Jane got three years probation and was ordered to pay $10,000 restitution.  

Meet “Doris the Duplicator”.  When hired, Doris had successfully lobbied against computerization, convincing the doctor that it was not as efficient as the old manual pegboard system.  In turn, Doris kept a duplicate set of patient ledgers.  Payments and receipts were recorded on the duplicate ledgers while charges were posted on the real ledgers. 

Over a period of eighteen months Doris stole an estimated $40,000.  She was caught when the doctor became suspicious and carefully personally tracked daily financial activity for a couple of days.  Doris was not prosecuted and accepted a job with a different local dental office.

 “Mary the Master” – Mary was one of the best we have ever seen.  She was involved in

1) Skimming, taking cash and not posting it,

2) Layering a technique involving the taking checks and withholding for posting later,

3) Had an excessive need for petty cash, going through about $100 per week. 

 Mary also set up a second business checking account in the dentists’ name (she was the only authorized signer) and subsequently diverted the office credit card deposits to that account. 

 Mary paid all office bills, using erasable ink and thereby allowing for the checks to be made out to her personally and then changing them back to legitimate venders after they cleared the bank.  The deposit slips never matched the bank deposits actually made and subsequently the checking account could never be balanced with the ledger.

 But Mary’s most effective technique was to turn off the statement generator for most patients’ accounts.  And this eventually led to her getting caught.  The two doctors noted that while each year their taxable income had increased over the prior year, according to the computer, their accounts receivable had spiraled out of control and was showing a balance of $500,000+. 

 Feeling there may have been an error in how information was being entered into the computer, they called in a software specialist who discovered the statement generator problem.  After resetting the statement generator, the computer promptly spit out 3000+ statements.  These statements were mailed and the phone lines to the office began to melt as patient after patient called in to complain that this balance had been paid.  Who handled all the calls and comforted the patients?  Mary the Office Manager, of course, who promised to post credits to clear up the balances.

 How was she caught?   At one of the many extravagant parties thrown by Mary, another employee, while retrieving her coat from a closet, saw shoeboxes full of checks made out to the doctors.   But not before, over a five-year period, Mary had embezzled $400,000.   Apparently Mary had some “dirt” on one of the partners, so Mary was never prosecuted and nothing was recovered. Subsequently, the partnership was dissolved.

 Understanding the Thief                

Why do dental staffs steal?  There are different reasons for different individuals.  For some it is the need for money.  For others, feeling they have not been treated fairly, it is revenge.  For many, feeling they are not compensated enough in light of how much the doctor “earns”, jealousy plays a major role.  And for some, just like gamblers who continue to “lose” but continue to bet, it is the “excitement.”

 Many staff that steal share certain characteristics.  Many have life-styles beyond their means.  Excessive debt and constant money problems accompany many.  Many are also the victims of excessive family problems.  These problems come from children, spouses or significant others, and “ex” spouses/significant others.  Many have excessive habits including alcohol, drugs, and gambling.

 What does an employee who is likely to steal from you look like?  They are intelligent and knowledgeable in office procedures.  They are personable and friendly.  They are tireless, willing to put uncompensated over-time and rarely take their allotted vacation time.  Basically, the perfect employee, except for a tiny character flaw-they are dishonest!

 Conclusion

Most theft, fraud, and embezzlement is avoidable if minimal safeguards are instituted.  However, the doctor must take an active role.  Those doctors who blindly trust their employees are the easiest targets and suffer the greatest losses.

 Many new dentists who acquire their dental practice by purchasing an existing practice face the same problem relative to implementing safeguards that older dentists in practice for many years face.  How to implement new procedures without creating the impression that the dentist does not trust the staff? 

 This one is the easiest answer.  Blame it on your accountant.  Tell your staff that your accountant has recommended certain changes be made in how things are done because the recommended changes represent better compliance with GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles).  In this manner, these changes will barely be questioned, except perhaps for a staff person who is guilty of theft.

 For more information please feel free to contact me at any time. Above all, DO NOT accuse anyone of anything until you have consulted with legal & financial counsel. Should you or your advisors require speaking with a “Dental Practice Embezzlement & Fraud Specialist, there are several very good independent organizations in the area and I would be happy to forward several recommendations.

Product Review – Quick Up – Secure hold for composite-based dentures…………….

In many cases the hold of full dentures is unsatisfactory. The main reasons for this are bone atrophy, resorption processes and changes to the denture base, which is made up of both hard and soft tissue. Implants are used today in many cases for fixing full dentures. This is because small implant diameters and simplified and less time-consuming surgical procedures make this option very attractive. In most cases the existing denture can continue to be worn and only needs to be fitted with the corresponding attachments or secondary components for removable attachment to the implants or primary components.

 To that end, VOCO now offers with Quick Up a self-curing, gingiva-coloured composite for bonding in attachments or secondary components and their reattachment in composite-based dentures. Quick Up enables these procedures to be carried out both quickly and easily chairside, eliminating inaccuracies caused by the transfer to a model in the laboratory.

 Firm hold, comfortable and economical

Quick Up ensures a firm hold of attachments or secondary parts in the denture base and has high strength values. Unlike methods using a support made only of non-hardening silicone instead of a (metal) attachment, attachments or secondary components used with Quick Up not only provide a more stable hold and a higher level of comfort but are also an economical alternative to fixing dentures with silicone. This is because non-hardening silicones tend to discolour and undergo changes the longer they are worn and any rebasings required can never harden, thereby increasing both the frequency of treatments and expense for the patient.

 Complete set for immediate use

Quick Up is available singly and as part of a complete set. Apart from the self-curing luting composite, Quick Up, in the practical QuickMix syringe, the complete set contains the Quick Up Adhesive as bonding agent for the intensive bond between the denture base and luting composite. The set also includes Quick Up LC, a light-curing luting composite for correcting and filling ditchings as well as Fit Test C&B, a special silicone-based control and covering for the trial fitting and blocking out of primary components or implants before the final attachment. The complete set enables attachments or secondary components to be luted in a procedure that is both uncomplicated and timesaving and is completed in just a few worksteps.

Click here to Learn more about Quick Up
Implant Pick up Material

 

 Sunday, December 18, 2011………………………..……………………….

It’s Festivus for the Rest of Us!

4:44 Add to

The Story of Festivus

3:05 Add to

Snoopy vs. The Red Baron (Snoopy’s Christmas) (CC)

4:07 Add to

ADAM SANDLER – CHANUKAH (HANUKKAH) SONG [PART 1]

Enjoy the rest of 2011!!

Cliff

Cliff Marsh

Henry Schein Dental

P.O. Box 663 / 45 Rt. 46 East, Suite 605

Pine Brook, NJ 07058

Cell: 201-321-7494

Fax: 201-262-2210

cliff.marsh@henryschein.com

http://www.cliffsnotesblog.me  

http://www.facebook.com/#!/profile.php?id=1644814090

http://www.linkedin.com/pub/cliff-marsh/11/447/44

The Cliff’s Notes Channel http://www.youtube.com/cliffmarsh100

December 18, 2011 Posted by | Uncategorized | Leave a Comment

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