Client interview, July 2015 - Interview with Dr Dev Boparoy - Principal Dentist at First Bite Dental
How were you introduced to Prime Practice?
I had been working in a number of smaller practices following graduation and started working with Agim at First Bite in 2008. Agim had just started with Prime Practice then, so I was lucky enough to be there from the very beginning. I was able to observe all the systems and protocols being implemented and watch our practice evolve in every way.
What was the biggest difference between your previous practices to one working with Prime Practice?
There is a much smoother work flow, interruptions to the ideal day are less frequent and the team is a lot calmer. On top of this, we run in self managed teams in charge of various aspects of the practice, which empowers and motivates each team member, leading to even less stress for the practice owner. I found the workflow much more haphazard in other practices and this can be stressful to deal with on a daily basis.
Why Prime Practice?
Agim had always been looking for a ‘partner’ who would be able to help him expand the practice and be able to work well within our practice. Prime Practice has provided this support for the last 7 years- and our figures have been increasing year after year. We have been able to grow from a one dentist, 2 hygienist practice, to a team of 18 staff which include 3 dentists, a hygienist and a therapist.
I bought into First Bite in 2013. I initially looked into buying other practices. Knowing Prime Practice as I did, I attended their “Buying or Setting Up a Dental Practice” course, as well as their “Practice Owner’s Workshop” course to get some insights. Both of these courses gave me valuable information on what it would be like to buy a practice and transition to a practice owner. Prime has been fundamental in helping me transition from employee to partner, from dentist to leader.
What is the biggest thing that has changed since joining Prime Practice?
Prime Practice has taught us how to communicate and solve problems within our team. The appointment book is running smoother, the staff are managing their time better, and everyone has responsibility for their tasks. This creates a healthy working environment where staff are empowered. This has contributed to our continuing growth.
What has been the most impactful workshop that your practice has undertaken- why?
After completing the Practice Management Program, we graduated to the Masters Program, and have been a part of this program each year ever since. The latest Team Masters Workshop was a few months ago and was the most impactful. It really brought all of the concepts from all the past workshops together. From phone skills and scheduling to communication skills and management of staff as well as dealing with issues that come up. Everything was covered! We all gained a lot from this.
Have you completed Primespeak? What were the impacts of this course?
The first time I did Primespeak was five years ago. It was akin to doing an Anthony Robbins seminar… I got so much out of it and took a lot of the skills home with me. Interactions with patients as well as in my personal life totally changed. It removes the sales agenda from treatment planning, and allows for an open and honest conversation with our patients
I had already been working as a dentist for 2-3 years before doing Primespeak and noticed the shift in my attitude. The great thing with Prime Practice is that we track everything, so I could see my case acceptance increase drastically. And we have been doing the Primespeak Seminar every year since. There is always something new that we learn each year.
How have you found the coaching experience?
My coach is our key motivator. Together we deal with communication barriers and team issues, we analyse our numbers, expenses and reports. Having a coach is absolutely essential to pushing yourself one step further.
How does your practice use the engine?
The Prime Practice Engine is being used on a daily basis. We use it as a tool for us to communicate with all our team, as we work different hours. The team can log onto the engine, send emails, allocate training to watch and tasks to each team member. It makes communication easier in that sense. Everything is monitored and tracked and checked off. All of our daily huddles and team meetings go up on the Prime Engine and some of these are recorded and uploaded if team members miss out.
Have these changes affected your life outside of work?
Definitely. The management skills learnt transfers to our personal life and gives us a more structured way to deal with the world, which means you can actually get more done.. If Agim and myself are not around, we know that the systems are all in place for the practice to almost run itself.
