Dentistry sluggish progress in meeting new patient expectations has led the industry to fall behind other fields, according to one DSO exec.
Scottsdale, Ariz.-based Imagen Dental Partners COO Andrew Jones recently spoke with Becker's about what patients are looking for now in their experiences at dental practices.
Editor's note: Responses were lightly edited for length and clarity.
Question: How have patient expectations evolved at dental practices?
Andrew Jones: Patients are viewing their role in the dental practice in much more consumer-oriented terms. They're looking for ease of scheduling and convenient access to providers. They're looking for digital interfaces with the practice, whether that be online scheduling or digital billing. They're really looking for a seamless experience, and that's what they're getting in other areas of their lives. We're seeing them expect that in the healthcare and dental environment as well.
Q: Has dentistry been lacking in those areas compared to other industries?
AJ: I think dental is a bit behind the curve of broader healthcare and consumer trends, but there are a number of providers out there, Imagen being one of them, that are rapidly catching up.