Orthodontic Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Orthodontic, including details on braces, retainers, treatment.

The success of orthodontic satellite practices.

Heying SS, English JD, Bussa HI, Corbett JA

Department of Orthodontics, University of Texas Dental Branch at Houston, USA. sheying@hotmail.com

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the financial success and personal satisfaction of orthodontists operating satellite practices. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A questionnaire was e-mailed to 4426 members of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), and 817 completed surveys were returned, yielding an 18% response rate. Only replies from solo practitioner orthodontists were analyzed to limit variability among respondents. RESULTS: Solo practitioner orthodontists with satellite practices reported an increase in net profit and started significantly more cases than orthodontists with one office. Yet, only 27% of respondents with one satellite and 48% of practitioners operating multiple satellites recommend opening a satellite practice. Ninety-two percent of orthodontists stated they were satisfied with the clinical aspects of their practice, and 99% of orthodontists described themselves as happy and satisfied individuals. CONCLUSION: Despite the ability of a satellite office to expand a patient base and increase net income, most practitioners would not encourage young orthodontists to establish a satellite office.

Published 9 August 2007 in Angle Orthod, 77(5): 875-80.
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