Beyond the DOW: Recent Economic Survey of Dentists
I recently completed my fee, wage and economic surveys for the Upper Midwest. Over 300 practices responded.

33% of the Metro practices surveyed said they were up this year, 46% were down and 21% even. For Outstate offices (including the edges of North and South Dakota, Iowa and Wisconsin) the outlook was a little better. 41% of the practices said they were up, 28% down and 31% even.

17% of Metro Area practices felt the economy is not a factor at all but 73% felt the economy had a “moderately negative” effect. 27% of Outstate offices said the economy hasn’t affected them at all and 70% said “moderately negative”.

29% of Metro Area offices have given or plan to give raises this year and 41% said they won’t. In Outstate offices 54% have given or plan to give raises this year with 24% saying that they do not plan to give raises (the rest variable or not sure).

There is no question that the current economy is having an impact on practices. Just three years ago “5% growth” was more or less the rule.

I believe in management. Whenever we see Doctors take actual steps to improve, they do improve! Things just don’t come as easily as they might have in previous years.

Feel like talking about your situation? Got some ideas? I have a standing offer of a free 20 minute consultation that allows you and I to get to know each other and share information that will be beneficial to both of us. Call me at 952 921 3360.

’til next time...

Profitable Dentist Seminar, Destin, Florida

We had a great time in Destin, Florida, 

at the Profitable Dentist Seminar.

Shelly Ryan and I presented the “What Do You Say When”

Show and everyone had a blast.

Just goes to show that learning needn't be boring. We had 

great music in a fast-paced Game Show setting that had 

everyone moving and cheering, vying for prizes which 

included cash pay-outs and... chocolate.

Shelly presented multiple-

choice questions that 

were easy but critical to 

every dental office’s 

success. She quickly 

explained why one 

response was 

better than the others, without interrupting the hectic excitement.

You gotta see the video at our website.

(Look for the “What Do You Say When” logo.)

This seminar can travel! Book us for your event.

Shelly Ryan has over 20 years of experience in dentistry as a Chairside Assistant, Financial Coordinator and Office Manager. As a consultant with Advanced Practice Management, she helps coach over 250 dental teams.