What is a DSO?
What is a DSO?
DSO stands for Dental Services Organizations. It is a business entity that purchases dental practices. The goal is to improve best business practices for the individual office so that it may provide better, more efficient dental care to its patient population. There are many different types of DSOs with varying ways of doing business. They run the gamut from being very large organizations which run thousands of dental practices throughout the country to smaller local DSOs with just a couple of dental practices under their umbrella.
How does a DSO differ from a traditional dental practice?
So far as the patient is concerned, there should be no difference between a practice owned by a DSO or an individual practitioner. The difference between a DSO and an individual practice is the way the business is owned and organized. In the vast majority of DSOs, the DSO entity purchases the practice, and the dentist is either a partner in or an employee of the DSO.
Why are they becoming increasingly popular among dentists and patients alike?
Dental Services Organizations are gaining in popularity for a variety of reasons. The DSO can run a practice more efficiently by reducing cost and adding more flexibility. Here are some reasons why selling to a DSO has become increasingly popular among dentists.
- Dental Services Organizations Can Provide Dentists With Reduced Costs
Dental services organizations can be a great way for dental practices to reduce their overhead costs. Dental services organizations can save money on supplies, equipment, and other expenses by pooling resources and negotiating with vendors
- Dental Services Organizations Can Improve Efficiency
Dental services organizations strive to improve practice efficiency. By centralizing scheduling and billing, dental services organizations can help consolidate some of the administrative burdens. In addition, dental services organizations often have staff members who can handle many tasks in the dental office allowing the dentists and hygienists to concentrate on patient care.
- Dental Services Organizations Can Provide More Flexibility
Another advantage of dental services organizations is that they can provide more flexibility for the dentist in terms of hours and days of practice.
- Dental Services Organizations Are Convenient for Patients
Dental services organizations are also convenient for patients. Because they often have multiple locations, patients can choose a dental office close to their home or work. In addition, many dental services organizations offer extended hours, which can be convenient for patients with busy schedules.
- Dental Services Organizations Are Affordable for Patients
Due to the fact that DSOs practices often have reduced overhead costs, they can offer lower prices for dental procedures. In addition, many dental services organizations offer payment plans, making dental care more affordable for patients.
- Dental Services Organizations Offer a Wide Range of Services
Because DSOs, in many cases, also have affiliate specialty practices or specialists in the individual general practice, patients can receive comprehensive care for all their dental needs under the DSOs umbrella.
- Dental Services Organizations May Offer Complimentary Services
Many dental services organizations’ practices offer complimentary services. This can greatly benefit patients who need enticement to come in for care. Offering free x-rays and exams is a way many DSO practices attract new patients. In addition, some dental services organizations offer free consultations, which can be helpful for patients who are considering dental care but are not sure what procedure they need.
Frequently Asked Questions About DSO
Here are a few of the often-asked questions regarding Dental Services Organizations. This will include what a DSO is and the benefits of working with one. Additionally, you will discover the many DSO types and the services they provide.
What is a Dental Services Organization?
DSO stands for Dental Services Organizations. It is a business entity that purchases dental practices. The goal is to improve best business practices for the individual office so that it may provide better, more efficient dental care to its patient population.
What advantages come from collaborating with a DSO?
DSO’s purchase practices and allow the dentist to concentrate on what they do best – treat patients. The DSO handles the business end of the practice. DSOs often have economies of scale that allow them to provide a highly efficient practice model.
What are the risks of working with a DSO?
As a dentist, you may be required to give up some or most of the control over the day to day running of the practice.
