We recently connected with Ashandra Batiste and have shared our conversation below.

Ashandra, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Let’s start with what makes profitability in your industry a challenge – what would you say is the biggest challenge?

Dental insurance can significantly impact the profitability of dental offices due to several factors related to its structure, reimbursement rates, and the general misunderstanding of how it functions by both patients and dental office staff. Here’s a detailed explanation of how these factors interplay.

1. Reimbursement Rates and Fee Schedules
Dental insurance typically operates on a fee schedule, which is a predetermined list of the maximum amounts the insurer will pay for specific procedures. These rates are often lower than the fees dentists would charge for services if the patients were paying out-of-pocket. When dental offices agree to accept insurance, they also agree to these lower rates, which can reduce their revenue per procedure.

2. Claim Denials and Delays
Insurance claims can be denied or delayed for various reasons, such as paperwork errors, lack of pre-authorization, or questions about medical necessity. These denials and delays can create cash flow issues for dental offices. They may spend considerable time and resources appealing these denials, further adding to operational costs without immediate revenue.

3. Patient Misunderstanding and Expectation Management
Many patients misunderstand their dental insurance benefits, often assuming their insurance will cover most or all of their dental expenses. When patients are surprised by out-of-pocket costs, it can lead to dissatisfaction, delayed payments, or even the decision to forgo treatment altogether. Dental offices then face increased accounts receivable and potential bad debt.

Dental insurance can significantly impact the profitability of dental offices due to several factors related to its structure, reimbursement rates, and the general misunderstanding of how it functions by both patients and dental office staff. Here’s a detailed explanation of how these factors interplay:

1. Reimbursement Rates and Fee Schedules
Dental insurance typically operates on a fee schedule, which is a predetermined list of the maximum amounts the insurer will pay for specific procedures. These rates are often lower than the fees dentists would charge for services if the patients were paying out-of-pocket. When dental offices agree to accept insurance, they also agree to these lower rates, which can reduce their revenue per procedure.

2. Claim Denials and Delays
Insurance claims can be denied or delayed for various reasons, such as paperwork errors, lack of pre-authorization, or questions about medical necessity. These denials and delays can create cash flow issues for dental offices. They may spend considerable time and resources appealing these denials, further adding to operational costs without immediate revenue.

3. Patient Misunderstanding and Expectation Management
Many patients misunderstand their dental insurance benefits, often assuming their insurance will cover most or all of their dental expenses. When patients are surprised by out-of-pocket costs, it can lead to dissatisfaction, delayed payments, or even the decision to forgo treatment altogether. Dental offices then face increased accounts receivable and potential bad debt.

4. Impact on Treatment Planning
Dentists may feel pressured to recommend treatments based on what insurance will cover rather than what is in the best interest of the patient. This can limit the scope of care and reduce the potential revenue from more comprehensive, albeit necessary, dental services that are not covered by insurance.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

When I was 11, I had a serious accident that drastically impacted my smile and my confidence. The injury left me in need of extensive dental care, and I was fortunate enough to be treated by a skilled and compassionate pediatric dentist. The experience was transformative, not just in terms of restoring my smile, but also in igniting a passion within me. I was inspired by the difference my dentist made in my life, and I knew from that moment that I wanted to help others in the same way. This early encounter set me on the path to becoming a dentist, driven by a desire to provide care and confidence to my future patients.

In my dental practice, I strive to solve problems for my patients by making it easier for them to say yes to dentistry. I believe that creating a welcoming and supportive environment is key. That’s why I’ve cultivated a culture in my office that is patient, kind, compassionate, and loving. We also ensure that our patients have a good time by fostering an atmosphere filled with laughter and positivity. By prioritizing these values, we make every visit enjoyable and stress-free. This approach helps to alleviate any anxieties patients may have about dental treatment, encouraging them to take the necessary steps for their oral health with confidence and peace of mind.

I am most proud of being a first-generation doctor, a loving wife, a proud mom of three, and a successful multi-practice business owner. These roles define my journey and inspire me daily. Balancing my professional achievements with my personal life is a testament to my dedication and passion, and I am grateful for the opportunity to make a positive impact on my family, my patients, and my community

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

A valuable lesson I had to unlearn in my career is that mentorship is crucial. When I opened my own practice, I did not seek advice or community. I thought that I could be successful on my own accord, hard work, and drive. I quickly realized that I was on a steep road to failure. I discovered that surrounding yourself with people who are smarter than you and staying engaged in a coaching group is essential for growth and success. This shift in mindset has profoundly impacted my professional development, underscoring the importance of continuous learning and support from others.

Can you open up about a time when you had a really close call with the business?

Running a business comes with a unique set of challenges, especially when it comes to managing cash flow and meeting payroll. I’ve faced this reality multiple times, finding myself in the tough position of having to borrow money from my husband to ensure my employees get paid on time.

Balancing business finances can be tricky, with expenses often piling up faster than revenue comes in. Despite meticulous planning and budgeting, unforeseen circumstances can strain even the most well-managed finances. This is where my husband has stepped in as a crucial support system.

The first time I had to borrow money from him, it was a mix of embarrassment and relief. I remember the anxiety of realizing that the funds were short and the immediate scramble to find a solution. Explaining the situation to my husband wasn’t easy, but his understanding and willingness to help eased my burden. He didn’t just lend me the money; he offered emotional support and reassured me that setbacks are a part of the entrepreneurial journey.

Over time, I’ve had to borrow from him on multiple occasions. Each time, I’ve learned valuable lessons about cash flow management, forecasting, and the importance of having a financial safety net. These experiences have taught me resilience and the significance of having a reliable partner to lean on.

While borrowing money from my husband to meet payroll wasn’t part of the business plan, it’s a reality many entrepreneurs face. It underscores the importance of having a strong support system and being adaptable in the face of financial challenges. Through it all, I’ve become more adept at navigating financial hurdles and more appreciative of the teamwork that keeps both my family and business afloat.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.elitedentalwellness.com
• Instagram: @Hotdocdotcom @elitedentalwellness @elitedentalpediatrics
• Linkedin: DrAshandraBatiste