“Collaboration And Partnership In Consulting. Achieving Successful Outcomes.” with Ameena Basile.

In this episode of the Ultimate Dental Podcast, Dr. David Moffet interviews Ameena Basile, who shares her unique journey from a challenging start in dental assisting to becoming a successful practice manager and consultant. Ameena discusses the importance of financial literacy in dentistry, the impact of COVID- 19 on dental practices, and the resistance to change often seen in the industry. Ameena emphasises the need for accountability and the value of seeking help to improve practice management and patient care.In this conversation, David and Ameena discuss the critical aspects of patient experience, communication, and leadership in dental practices. They emphasise the importance of making patients feel welcomed and valued, the role of effective communication in building trust, and the necessity of strong leadership to ensure a successful practice. They also touch on the significance of likability in patient relationships and the potential risks of trust and fraud within dental practices.What you will learn:[01:20] Introduction and Background[02:42] Amina's Journey into Dentistry[06:58] Transitioning to Practice Management[10:29] Establishing Dental Management Expertise[13:15] The Impact of COVID-19 on Dental Practices[16:08] The Importance of Financial Literacy in Dentistry[20:57] Resistance to Change in Dental Practices[25:55] The Role of Accountability in Success[29:11] The Importance of Patient Experience[33:04] Communication and Leadership in Dentistry[37:11] Building Trust and Relationships with Patients[40:13] The Role of Likability in Dental Practices[43:41] Addressing Trust and Fraud in Dental PracticesTakeaways Amina Basile's journey into dentistry began unexpectedly as a dental assistant. The importance of mentorship and supportive leadership in professional growth. Financial literacy is crucial for dentists to ensure a sustainable practice. COVID-19 prompted innovative approaches in dental practice management. Resistance to change is a common challenge in dental practices. Accountability plays a key role in achieving success in practice management. Practice managers should feel empowered to seek help and learn more. The integration of hygiene departments can significantly improve practice efficiency. Collaboration and partnership in consulting can lead to successful outcomes. Continuous professional development is essential for adapting to industry changes. Patient experience is crucial for retention and satisfaction. Effective communication can prevent misunderstandings and cancellations. Leadership is essential for a successful dental practice. Building trust with patients leads to long-term relationships. Likability can significantly impact a practice's success. Dentists should not assume staff understand common practices. Systems and processes are vital for smooth operations. Addressing potential fraud is necessary for practice integrity. Patients value personal connections over technology and equipment. Regularly reconciling finances can prevent theft and mismanagement.Sound Bites "I wanted to be a singer." "I was a very brave young girl." "I started to really like dental assisting." "I want to be able to help." "The resistance around this is amazing to me." "I think it should happen everywhere anyway." "It's a two-way street." "It's better just to pull the pin." "Nothing changes if nothing changes." "It's everything has a flow on consequence." "Don't let anybody leave without an appointment." "The dentist is lousy at communicating."