Dustin Netral on Patient-Centric Dental Practice Management

The Dental Economist Show with Guest Dustin Netral

In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host CRO Mike Huffaker of Planet DDS sits down with Dustin Netral, president and CEO of Vista Verde Dental Partners and vice president of ADSO. Join them as they discuss innovative approaches to dental practice management, the evolution of patient-centric care, and the importance of industry advocacy.

Learn more about:

  • The transition from emergency dental care to specialized treatment
  • Patient experience optimization
  • The importance of accountability in patient care
  • The role of DSOs in expanding access to care

About Our Guest

Dustin Netral brings a unique perspective to dental practice management, with a rich background spanning healthcare, retail, and digital transformation. As president and CEO of Vista Verde Dental Partners and vice president of ADSO, he has been instrumental in reshaping dental practice support through innovative strategies. Under his leadership, Vista Verde has expanded its operations across five states, focusing on specialized denture and implant solutions.

Episode Highlights

In this episode, Dustin Netral discusses how a patient-first approach to practice management is transforming lives. Here are some highlights from the show:

Business evolution and strategic focus

Netral shares the journey of transforming their business from a 24-hour emergency dental care model to Brightly Denture and Implant Studios. This strategic shift moved them from providing emergency services with a heavy Medicaid focus to offering specialized denture and implant solutions with a concierge-level approach. The change allowed them to better serve patients while creating a more sustainable business model.

Patient experience and performance tracking

Netral explains their unique approach to monitoring practice performance, emphasizing the importance of tracking behaviors rather than just outcomes. They focus on metrics like confirmation processes, call attempt rates, and connection rates, alongside traditional business metrics. This comprehensive approach helps them deliver exceptional patient experiences and maintain high service standards.

Managing patient feedback and accountability

The discussion covers their approach to patient feedback and reviews, where they request reviews from 100% of patients, regardless of their experience. This transparency helps maintain accountability and drives continuous improvement in patient care. When negative feedback occurs, the focus is on taking ownership and finding solutions rather than making excuses.

Industry challenges and solutions

Netral addresses current challenges in the dental industry, particularly the impact of rising costs without corresponding increases in reimbursement rates. He discusses the importance of legislative efforts, such as the Massachusetts minimum loss ratio bill, in addressing these challenges and improving the overall healthcare landscape.

About The Dental Economist Show

Don’t miss out on episodes with special guests to discuss top strategies to grow your dental business. Tune in to the The Dental Economist Show weekly to learn how to optimize your DSO’s value and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving industry.