Dr. James Berwick: Pearls on Starting Up a Practice De Novo, as well as Purchasing an Existing Practice

Everyday Oral Surgery

The last 30 or so years have been a golden age for dentistry. However, this is drawing to a close, due to the growing popularity of Dental Service Organizations (DSO), and several other factors, according to Dr. James Berwick. Join us today as we learn about all things surgery and finance, from a legend in the OMFS field! Jim breaks down how he got to where he is now, from the army to private practice, and everything in between. We learn how working at unpopular hours can help boost your bottom line through the initial struggles of starting a practice, and Jim's tips on some non-surgery-related money-spinning ideas. Discover the pros and cons of joining a DSO, why Jim enjoys being part of the legal process, and how to best approach an older surgeon to take over their practice. We wrap up the episode with some sage advice on balancing economics and job satisfaction, and why self-confidence is key when thinking about making a change to your business. For all this and so much more, tune in today!

Key Points From This Episode:

• Where you can find out more about your favorite oral surgery podcast!
• Welcome to Dr. James (Jim) Berwick, and his journey to where he is now from the army to private practice.
• Where dentistry is headed: organized dentistry, and the pros and cons.
• Why the last few decades were the golden age of dentistry, and the three factors contributing to its decline.
• How oral maxillofacial surgeons have maintained their status and way of practice, unlike general dentistry.
• Jim’s breakdown of the legal area of practice, and why he enjoys it.
• Tips on how to cover yourself legally!
• Jim’s advice for young surgeons on making money (establish what you want).
• How working at a DSO initially can be a good thing, while establishing a private practice.
• The benefits of working unconventional hours!
• Jim’s advice on approaching an older surgeon to acquire their practice.
• The pros and cons of working on your own, compared to working as part of a team.
• Balancing economics and job satisfaction.
• Jim’s thoughts on financial diversification and doing things outside of oral maxillofacial surgery to boost your bottom line.
• The importance of persistence and self-confidence, according to Jim.

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Dr. James Berwick Phone — 303-400-4500

Every Day Oral Surgery Website

Dr. Grant Stucki Email — [e-mail]

Dr. Grant Stucki Phone — 720-441-6059