by Sponsored Content: SupportDDS
By J.W. Oliver Jr., Managing Partner, SupportDDS
We live in a world where the temptation to completely automate everything seems alluring. AI and other forms of process automation technology can now do many human tasks. But is automation always the solution? Before answering that question, it’s important to acknowledge that failing to embrace new technologies is a recipe for disaster. At the same time, completely automating tasks that require a human touch can be equally disastrous. How then do we balance the two?
Automation in the Dentistry Industry
Research shows that automation is now widespread in the dentistry industry. Patients, in general, seem to welcome the use of AI and other technologies, but various concerns have been raised. In one study, 36.2% of respondents said AI poses challenges on doctor-patient relationships. Lack of empathy was identified as one of AI’s key challenges.
On July 30, 2024, Perceptive, a company that works in AI-driven automated technology, announced the completion of the world’s first fully automated dental procedure on a human. It was done using a robotic dentistry system. Dentistry practices are no longer just capable of automating patient communication; with the right technology, they can also automate clinical procedures. This brings us back to the question posed at the very beginning: yes, dentistry is now capable of high-level automation, but is automation always the solution?
An Alternative Path
To automate or not to automate is not the question. There must be some level of integration of automation without sacrificing the empathy we must show and ultimately, top-notch patient care. To answer it, we first need to ask why we would want to automate in the first place. We typically automate to save time and money. This is necessary in today’s economy and landscape. Many dental practices employ assistive technologies so they can increase the time for patients and reduce overall labor costs.
What if we told you that in those roles where the human touch is essential, you could still save time and money, but without completely automating? (At least not fully.) Examples of such roles include communication with patients. Often, this role requires a human touch. Research clearly shows that most patients are anxious about going to the dentist. Sometimes, patients need a real human with empathy to talk to, and not simply technology.
Through insourcing, you can have real people coordinate patient communication with a significant cost-saving versus hiring in-house employees. Insourcing is when you hire a remote/virtual team member to do work for you that would have otherwise been done in-house. It’s different from outsourcing in that the remote/virtual team member works only for your company and completely integrates into your organisation’s systems and culture. You can learn more about it here.
There are tasks such as handling insurance claims and patient scheduling that can significantly increase the output with automation and technology, but with REAL PEOPLE input and supervision. Completely automating them can prove risky. The solution calls for a blend of real people and technology. Insourcing is your solution.
Dental support staff in the US can range from $22 to $30 per hour. Typically, for a 40-60% savings, you can integrate a highly qualified remote/virtual team member to enhance your practice. In the final analysis, it is safe to conclude that automation is not the only way to save time and money. Insourcing is a great option. It preserves the human touch while leveraging technology. With insourcing, you get the best of both worlds. Start your insourcing journey today. Schedule a discovery call with us here.
J.W. Oliver Jr. is the Visionary behind SupportDDS, which currently employs 1,600+ team members, supporting 3,000+ offices and 70+ DSOs in 46 states and nine (9) countries, with a vision of reaching 20,000 by 2032. SupportDDS has operating centres in Zimbabwe, Costa Rica, and Zambia.
A faith-driven entrepreneur, J.W. lives by a Win-Win-Win philosophy—serving businesses, uplifting his team members, and making an impact for the Kingdom. He donates 51% of profits to global ministries and community-based initiatives, has launched 20+ companies, and is also a minister, speaker, author, pilot, and podcast host.
He is an avid adventurer, completing two ½ IronMan races, fifteen Half Marathons, and treks to remarkable destinations like Machu Picchu and Everest Base Camp. Beyond his entrepreneurial pursuits, J.W. is an ordained minister, speaker, author, podcast host, husband of 30+ years, and a proud father of two.
