We hear from three dentists about the impact of the cost of living crisis and how it is – or isn’t – affecting their patients and their treatment choices.
Stevie Potter
I think the business is fairly resilient – we’re still seeing a good flow of new patients coming in, despite high prices. I think it’s about the profession being brave enough to charge what it’s worth but ultimately providing a service to match it so patients can see the value proposition in the experience they’re paying for.
In fact, that’s what the service industry is all about and we’re very lucky to work in a ‘necessary’ service people will always need!
I think patients will recognise NHS dentistry and cheap dentistry is basically dead, and instead will embrace price hikes and look for the practices that deliver: practice plans, subscriptions and importantly, an experience they can actually enjoy for their money rather than endure!
We have become a luxury health business while providing an essential service, more similar to business models we see across the pond where value proposition is the top of the list when it comes to what patients want.
Amit Patel
The current crisis is having a monumental impact on our viability as a practice and more upsettingly, it’s creating further inequalities in oral health.
With my own eyes, I now see fewer patients for routine and new patient exams. Those that are willing to have treatment have to decline entire treatment plans or select what they want based on cost. However, what is most heartbreaking is when patients can’t afford treatment to get them out of toothache. Instead, they rely on painkillers and antibiotics.
Personally I feel the crisis is getting worse. Patients are now prioritising their needs and oral health is becoming more and more neglected.
Unfortunately, I don’t see any magical solution soon. The rest of this year will be a bumpy ride for the entire dental profession and the patients we serve.
Raj Juneja
The cost of living crisis has become a ubiquitous tagline in today’s media. As a clinic owner, I have noticed a rise in the cost of running the business.
However, this has been balanced by an increase in demand for private treatment. Notably, elective treatments such as orthodontics and porcelain veneers are also in high demand.
Interestingly, dentistry has consistently shown growth even during economic downturns in the past.
During this unprecedented time, the clinics that thrive will be those that invest in the quality of service and treatments they provide to patients. Patients now have higher expectations and are willing to invest in their oral health.
However, they are no longer willing to tolerate subpar service and may become more selective in choosing their dentist.
While the cost of living crisis has affected the running of dental clinics, there is still a growing demand for private treatment. By investing in the quality of service and treatments offered to patients, dental clinics can set themselves apart from the competition and thrive in these challenging times.
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