Practice Management Insider: Lessons from the 2008 recession to help practices navigate COVID-19

Dear Practice Management Insider,

There is no question that we are living in unprecedented times, and our industry is facing a never-before-seen challenge. However, that doesn't mean we can't try to obtain some nuggets of knowledge from daunting moments dental practices have endured in the past to help us all move forward together.

I asked Dr. Roger P. Levin to write an article for this issue's Insider Exclusive describing what dental practices went through in the Great Recession (2008-2009) and what lessons from those tough days could be applied today. When dental practices can reopen, there will be many challenges to overcome. Perhaps we can look to the past to help us forge ahead in the future.

Also in the Practice Management Community, Dr. Margaret Scarlett recently authored an article on why the dental industry needs to be focused on data, not just dates, when discussing when and how dental practices across the country might reopen to full patient loads.

What are some of the best practices for dental teams to stay in touch with their patients during this time when the practice's schedule is constantly being shifted around? Margaret Boyce-Cooley shared some options.

Outside of the COVID-19 realm, Bruce Bryen, CPA, CVA, took an in-depth look at what it means when couples work together inside the practice. No matter what the profession, working with spouses or romantic partners has its highs and lows. The dental industry is no exception, and Bryen offered some thoughts and financial advice on what can be a touchy subject.

Yes, there is light at the end of the tunnel for the dental industry. At DrBicuspid.com, we're going to do everything we can to provide you with the best information and opinions from dental industry experts to help you down the path to recovery and success.

Wishing you and your family health and safety.