While not every DSO has a chief engagement officer, the position can help bridge the gap between the clinical and business aspects of dentistry for dentists new to DSOs.
Sacramento, Calif.-based Straine Dental Management added Scott Jolly, DDS, to fill the role in June. Dr. Jolly has been a consulting client with Straine for more than 13 years and also brings to the position more than two decades of experience in private practice.
From serving as the primary liaison between the DSO and affiliated dentists to leadership development, Dr. Jolly is responsible for making the business side and clinical side flow smoothly and work well together.
"In essence, I facilitate alignment between our business and clinical sides, empowering doctors to lead their practices successfully," Dr. Jolly told Becker's.
But how does the role play out in practice? For Dr. Jolly, fostering alignment and communication between the practice and the DSO, supporting and comforting the teams through the transition, facilitating a smooth transition, maintaining patient care excellence and enhancing the reputation of the DSO are a few of his top priorities.
"The chief engagement officer plays a vital role in bridging the gap between clinical and business operations, supporting teams through transitions, and ensuring both clinical excellence and business success," Dr. Jolly said. "I believe more DSOs would benefit from incorporating this role to enhance their overall effectiveness and support for dental professionals."