This week, I wanted to share an important announcement about taking a brief summer break from the podcast. I reflect on my journey of starting my house-call dental practice focused on underserved and medically complex patients. In addition, I also discuss my growing involvement in teaching at my alma mater, which I’m finding both fulfilling and enjoyable. My decision to align the podcast schedule with the academic calendar is intended to provide better, more consistent content starting in August; however, in the meantime, listeners are encouraged to visit the Residential Movement website for resources and to reach out with any questions during this brief summer hiatus!

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This week, I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Elizabeth Ike, the owner of Comfort Home Dental in New Jersey. Elizabeth, a recent Housecall Practice Academy graduate, shared her inspiring journey from the initial idea of starting her housecall dental practice to seeing her first patients within a year. Despite the challenges of moving and obtaining new licenses, she successfully launched her practice and has been delivering essential dental care to a grateful patient population. Elizabeth offers valuable insights into the rewarding aspects of housecall dentistry, highlighting the emotional fulfillment she derives from helping patients in their times of need, even in hospice care scenarios.

Dr. Ike discusses some of the business hurdles she encountered, including handling contracts and managing finances, and stresses the importance of due diligence and smart spending when starting a new practice. Additionally, Elizabeth shares practical advice for aspiring housecall dentists, emphasizing that while administrative tasks can be challenging, the overall benefits and lower overhead compared to brick-and-mortar practices make it a worthwhile venture. She encourages anyone considering this path to take the leap, as the potential for professional fulfillment and patient impact is significant. If you have any questions or want to learn more, feel free to reach out to me at hello@residentialmovement.com. Thank you for tuning in!

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Open Enrollment For Dental House Call Practice Academy

Visit me at: ResiDENTAL Movement Website

Visit: AccommoDental

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In this episode, I share my experiences attending two significant dental conferences this month: the National Mobile and Teledentistry Conference (Denobi Awards) and the Special Care Dental Association (SCDA) meeting. At the National Mobile and Teledentistry Conference, it was a privilege to be nominated for a Denobi and to connect with various professionals who are passionate about mobile dental services. I highlight meeting a podcast listener inspired to start her own mobile practice and the accomplishments of award winners in this field. At the SCDA meeting, I gained insights into the specialized care of patients with unique needs, ranging from older adults to medically complex cases.

Despite the valuable information, I raise concerns about the focus on state-sponsored healthcare and the barriers private dentists face with Medicaid. I also discuss a mobile dental franchise model and its surprisingly cheap startup costs. To support those wanting to venture into mobile dentistry, I also discuss the Dental House Call Practice Academy, my online course designed to guide dentists through starting their own house-call practice. Attending such conferences is crucial for professional growth, networking, and staying updated on new materials and clinical techniques. I encourage listeners to mark their calendars and consider participating in these events to enhance their knowledge and connections next year!

Join Me For Office Hours

Free Master Class

Open Enrollment For Dental House Call Practice Academy

Visit me at: ResiDENTAL Movement Website

Visit: AccommoDental

Visit: Home Smile Care Foundation

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In this episode, I share a quick and practical tip for managing your house-call practice's phone line using VoIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol). Learn why it's crucial not to use your personal cell phone number and the benefits of having a dedicated VoIP number, including remote assistance, call tracking, and multiple voicemail recordings.

We'll delve into the importance of choosing HIPAA-compliant VoIP providers and provide examples such as Google Voice, GoTo, and Mango, which integrates seamlessly with the Curve EHR system. Discover how to streamline your communication while protecting your privacy and enhancing your practice's efficiency.

Join Me For Office Hours

Free Master Class

Open Enrollment For Dental House Call Practice Academy

Visit me at: ResiDENTAL Movement Website

Visit: AccommoDental

Visit: Home Smile Care Foundation

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Produced by: Social Chameleon

This week I wanted to address some inquiries from listeners about why I chose to establish a house-call dentistry practice. Inspired by Simon Sinek's Ted Talk, 'Start with Why,' I explain my personal motivations and the significant unmet needs within my community, particularly for patients who cannot leave their homes for dental care. I share experiences from my hospital residency and personal life that led to this decision. I also clarify misconceptions about the ease of house call dentistry, highlighting the logistical and physical challenges involved.

Additionally, I discuss the practicality of balancing house call services with chairside work and teaching commitments, emphasizing the empowerment of self-employment. I touch on the financial aspects, including why I don't accept insurance and the rationale behind charging for my coaching and courses. Throughout, I stress the importance of understanding one's 'why' and reaffirm my mission to improve access to dental care, encouraging others to consider the benefits and possibilities of house call dentistry.

Join Me For Office Hours

Free Master Class

Open Enrollment For Dental House Call Practice Academy

Visit me at: ResiDENTAL Movement Website

Visit: AccommoDental

Visit: Home Smile Care Foundation

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Produced by: Social Chameleon

In this episode, I share a recent office hours conversation with a Doc who was feeling conflicted about the next step in her career. She was burned out from traditional practice ownership and struggled with team management and financial stress. I recommended that she consider owning a dental house call practice, which offers the benefits of low debt, no team, and significant flexibility, making it an ideal option for her situation, especially given her passion for serving homebound patients. Despite her concerns about continuing complex surgical and cosmetic procedures, I assured her that house-call dentistry could be a perfect side hustle, allowing her to maintain her current role as an associate while exploring this new venture.

I also shared my own experiences to highlight the benefits of house-call dentistry. Starting my dental house call practice as a side hustle provided me with an additional source of income and gave me the freedom to learn and grow without financial pressure. This flexibility allowed me to adjust my schedule during important life events like pregnancy and my daughter’s first year. I emphasized that owning a house call practice does not limit one’s professional scope; instead, it opens up numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth. In closing, I encourage other dentists to consider this fulfilling and adaptable career path, which benefits both practitioners and homebound patients.

Join Me For Office Hours

Free Master Class

Open Enrollment For Dental House Call Practice Academy

Visit me at: ResiDENTAL Movement Website

Visit: AccommoDental

Visit: Home Smile Care Foundation

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In this episode, I wanted to discuss a topic that has been frequently brought up by listeners! The safety of conducting dental house calls. After nearly four years of experience, I have never faced significant safety issues. So I’m reminding listeners of some practical tips from previous episodes on how to ensure safety, such as hiring an assistant, keeping your phone nearby, and situating yourself safely in a room.

I also want to point out that most of my new patients come through referrals from other healthcare providers, which adds a layer of trust and security. Additionally, I point to other professions that involve working in clients' homes on a daily basis without major problems as a reassurance. Finally, I emphasize that while it is crucial to take precautions, the fear of house calls should not deter dentists from offering this valuable service to patients who genuinely need it. Thank you for listening and considering a career in house-call dentistry.

Free Master Class

Open Enrollment For Dental House Call Practice Academy

Visit me at: ResiDENTAL Movement Website

Visit: AccommoDental

Visit: Home Smile Care Foundation

Let’s Get Social:

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Produced by: Social Chameleon

This week I wanted to address a listener's question about the essentials for starting a house-call dental practice. I want to clarify that you do not need a specialized mobile dental van—any mode of transportation, like a simple minivan or even a small car, will suffice. Sharing my personal journey, I discuss how I started with a basic suitcase and evolved to using the Milwaukee Packout system, a durable and organization-friendly tool storage solution from Home Depot, thanks to my electrician husband.

In addition, I highlight the simplicity and practicality of the house call practice model, encouraging aspiring dentists not to be overwhelmed by perceived complexities or the need for specialized dental equipment. To help you get started, I offer additional resources such as my free masterclass and the Dental House Call Practice Academy online course. Remember, starting a house call practice is more straightforward than you might think, and with the right approach, you can successfully build your practice.

Free Master Class

Open Enrollment For Dental House Call Practice Academy

Visit me at: ResiDENTAL Movement Website

Visit: AccommoDental

Visit: Home Smile Care Foundation

Let’s Get Social:

Instagram

Facebook

LinkedIn

Produced by: Social Chameleon