one truthful testimonial...

Simon Thackeray, Thackeray Dental Care

The decision to convert to private practice was one that took a careful amount of consideration. I watched the developments of the new contract unfold and observed how it would potentially result in me losing control of my practice and prevent me from caring for my patients to the highest standards, so the verdict on converting was pretty straightforward.

Similar to my decision to convert, I was thorough in my research when looking at the range of dental plan providers. I realised I needed some form of mechanism to allow my patients to budget for their treatment, but felt that those patients that had more complex treatments would have to pay more than others for their maintenance. Practice Plan stepped in and provided me with a plan that could cater for my range of patients and the product they offered me was competitive, comprehensive and good value for money, so again, an easy choice to make.

The conversion process was surprisingly painless and stress free. It’s a difficult decision to make, but once the ball was in motion I did not feel the need to look back. I like knowing there is a baseline monthly payment that is virtually the same every month. Whilst I know that the same can be said for the NHS arrangements, I am not expecting clawback or sudden termination of my contract. Working alongside Practice Plan has allowed me to increase the time I spend with my patients, not necessarily treating them, sometimes just sitting in the patient lounge sharing a coffee and just chatting. Since converting I certainly sleep more soundly at night!

The continuous support I receive from Practice Plan is fantastic, and I regularly use all of the support tools that they have to offer. The marketing team has helped us with the design and print of our welcome packs, referral packs, newsletters, customised stationery, and all our business and referral cards. A one-stop shop with someone who ‘gets’ what our practice is all about is invaluable.

Their annual workshops are a great added value for the whole team. I have always encouraged team days, but it can get expensive and difficult arranging these sometimes, so having the Practice Plan workshops available is a great bonus.

The consultancy services that they provide allow me to touch base with someone who knows the business, but provides a different outlook for my practice. Dentists might think they have all the answers to running a business, but involving consultants (who are usually the top names in the industry) is something that shouldn’t be ignored and something that I have found very useful.

I have also had the opportunity to receive Directorship-level involvement. Graham Penfold, Technical Director at Practice Plan, has helped in the past when there was a transitional period in our practice, which had the potential to become an issue. However, with Graham’s involvement the situation was rectified, resulting in a seamless transition.

Another member of the Practice Plan squad who has helped considerably is Michelle, our Regional Support Manager. Yet, we don’t actually have a Regional Support Manager in Michelle, what we have is an extra member of our team! Michelle has always provided the perfect amount of support and information when we needed it and is only ever a phone call or an email away when we want to discuss something.

Having met the majority of the team at one time or another, I can say I don’t think there can be a more friendly, genuine, professional and thorough team in UK dentistry today (except my team)! They know the industry, they care about their clients, but they have an approachability and a complete lack of ego that is so refreshing to see. They share the same values as I do, with regard to the care of patient and customers, and they never fail to make me feel like I am their most valued and important client.

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Once nearly a 100% NHS practice, Thackeray Dental Care in Nottinghamshire now runs an exceptionally successful private practice. Renowned for delivering innovative and high-quality dentistry, especially the more complex type of work. The team, made up of three dentists, six nurses and a therapist pride themselves in providing the very best dental care, whilst in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.