Practice Plan shares the story of dentist Will Edlin, whose concerns around losing patients when transitioning to private practice turned out not to be such a barrier.
Converting from NHS to private practice was a source of worry for dentist Will Edlin. Having delivered mostly NHS treatments prior to his conversion, he was concerned about how his patients might react. Would they remain loyal to him and the practice, or go elsewhere? Would there be a backlash?
Although some patients did choose not to remain with him, he was pleasantly surprised by the number who did. Far from berating him for abandoning them, many of his patients told him they understood his reasons for going private. Patients these days are well aware of the difficulties in accessing dental appointments in some areas. They have a greater appreciation of where the problems with NHS dentistry really lie.
As he explains in this short video, the decision to move to private practice had not been easy to take. However, as the NHS contract continued to demand more and more for less and less, the choice ultimately became one motivated by self-preservation.
‘Patients appreciate their options may be limited’
Donna Hall is a regional support manager at Practice Plan. She explains that losing patients is a concern expressed by many dentists moving to private practice. However, the national shortage of NHS appointments has been well publicised. Patients appreciate their options to switch to another NHS practice may be limited. Also, once patients have built a good relationship with a dentist, they are reluctant to change.
Ensuring you are able to offer a range of plans to your patients can help encourage them to make the move from NHS to private with you. Spending time considering what your patients may want to budget for as well as how they would like to care for their oral health can help make life easier for them to remain as loyal patients to you.
If you’re considering your options away from the NHS and are looking for a provider who will hold your hand through the process while moving at a pace that’s right for you, why not start the conversation with Practice Plan on 01691 684165, or book your one-to-one NHS to private call today: practiceplan.co.uk/nhsvirtual.
For more information visit the Practice Plan website: practiceplan.co.uk/nhs.
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