Less Insurance Dependence Podcast
295 episodes - English - Latest episode: 7 days ago - ★★★★★ - 48 ratingsThere is an underlying precept in our country’s healthcare system that medical professionals can only survive through increased participation in insurance programs. The Less Insurance Dependence podcast series exposes that misperception, shedding light on how Dentists can thrive by breaking out of the insurance-controlled business model.
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Episodes
High Value Dentistry Series: Cosmetic Dentistry
April 18, 2024 17:30 - 20 minutes - 38.1 MBIn this podcast episode, hosts Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah discuss the importance of offering high-value services like cosmetic dentistry to attract new patients and improve practice profitability. They share tips for dentists interested in expanding their services, such as joining professional organizations and using effective marketing strategies. They also highlight the growing demand for cosmetic dentistry among millennials. Tune in for valuable insights and opportunities for practic...
Sneak Preview on Possible Benefits Reform
April 11, 2024 17:30 - 18 minutes - 33.5 MBTune in to this episode of the "Less Insurance Dependence" podcast, where hosts Naren Arulrajah and Gary Takacs provide a sneak preview of possible benefits reform in dental insurance. Drawing from Gary's insightful interview with Dr. Brett Kessler, president-elect of the American Dental Association (ADA), they delve into the pressing topic of benefits reform and its potential impact on dental practices. From disparities in coverage to advocating for patient-friendly approaches, Naren and Ga...
5 Less Expected Benefits of Successfully Resigning from PPO Plans
April 04, 2024 08:00 - 20 minutes - 28 MBJoin Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah on the "Less Insurance Dependence" podcast as they delve into the often-overlooked benefits of resigning from PPO plans. In this enlightening episode, learn how freeing yourself from PPO entanglements can lead to increased profitability, more time for patient care, and a happier workplace environment. Gain valuable insights and real-life examples that will empower you to take control of your dental practice and thrive outside the confines of PPO dependenc...
Take Away Lessons from Our Most Recent Virtual Event
March 28, 2024 04:00 - 17 minutes - 32.7 MBIn this podcast episode, Gary and Naren share a recap of the recent webinar with Dental Intel on the topic of Secrets to Thriving in Dentistry in 2024 and Beyond. Tune into this episode to learn further about the five proven strategies to make 2024 your best year yet, to learn about the data collected by Dental Intel working with 10,000 practices, and The Dental Buyer’s journey further explained by Naren. This episode will help you understand the importance of leveraging psychology to co...
The PPO Umbrella Nightmare
March 21, 2024 17:12 - 17 minutes - 31.2 MBIn this podcast episode, Gary and Naren expose the hidden costs and restrictions of PPO umbrella plans. Learn how to break free and take control of your practice's profitability. You can also discover success stories and 3 key steps to resigning from PPO plans strategically. Listen now and escape the PPO Umbrella Nightmare!
How Adding High Value Services Makes You Less Insurance Dependent
March 14, 2024 06:07 - 18 minutes - 33.3 MBThe Less Insurance Dependence podcast episode titled "How Adding High-Value Services Makes You Less Insurance Dependent" delves into the significance of incorporating high-value services, particularly cosmetic dentistry, into dental practices. Hosts Gary Takacs and Naren Arulraja stress the economic drawbacks of relying heavily on insurance plans, which often result in significant fee write-offs for dentists. By contrast, offering services like cosmetic dentistry allows practitioners to ...
What does it really mean to be Fee-for-Service?
March 08, 2024 01:13 - 19 minutes - 34.9 MBIn this episode of The Less Insurance Dependence podcast, co-hosts Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah delve into the topic of what it truly means to be fee-for-service (FFS) in dentistry. They emphasize that being FFS entails charging your full fees and receiving them directly from patients without involvement from insurance companies. They address common misconceptions about FFS dentistry and advocate for a patient-friendly approach. They highlight the importance of continuing to provide excel...
Episode #281: Top 10 Questions from RIDA Members Part 2
February 29, 2024 09:00 - 18 minutes - 33 MBIn this episode, Gary and Naren tackle ‘The Top 10 Questions from RIDA Members, Part 2’. They stress the importance of addressing patient concerns directly when resigning from PPO plans, provide strategies for deciding which plan to drop first, get team buy-in, estimate out-of-network fees, and proactively replace lost patients through effective marketing. Tune in for practical insights and actionable steps.
Episode #280: Top 10 Questions from RIDA Members Part 1
February 22, 2024 09:00 - 20 minutes - 37.7 MBIn this podcast episode, Gary and Naren address the top 10 questions from RIDA members on transitioning from PPO plans. They discuss the timeframe for the transition, fee adjustments by Delta Dental, costs of SEO versus Google Ads patients, secrets to low-cost SEO patients, and evaluating readiness to resign from PPO plans. Practical insights and strategies are shared for dental practitioners aiming to reduce insurance dependence.
Episode #279: High-Value Dentistry Series: Oral Conscious Sedation
February 15, 2024 09:00 - 20 minutes - 37.8 MBDiscover how Gary's real-life practice story can help you explore the benefits of oral conscious sedation in dentistry. By focusing on high-value services like oral conscious sedation, you can attract patients outside PPO plans while also easing dental fears. Learn about the importance of SEO in attracting anxious patients for comprehensive care and reducing insurance dependence. With high-value services, you can transform your practice into a patient-centered and profitable dentistry busine...
Episode #278: Lessons from Smile Direct Club Failure
February 08, 2024 09:00 - 22 minutes - 40.4 MBGary and Naren explore the fallout of SmileDirectClub's collapse, drawing parallels to the pitfalls of the DIY mindset. Through anecdotes and case studies, they caution against undertaking complex tasks without proper expertise. Discover the risks of navigating unfamiliar territory alone and the importance of seeking professional guidance in this eye-opening episode.
Episode #277: Mastering Marketing is Your Key to Successfully Resign from PPO Plans
February 01, 2024 09:00 - 19 minutes - 35.4 MBIn this episode, Gary explores the crucial link between mastering marketing and successfully resigning from PPO plans. By framing insurance write-offs as a strategic marketing expense, he reveals a path to acquiring new patients while minimizing losses. Drawing on practical examples, the episode emphasizes the transformative impact of redirecting marketing efforts from PPO plans to platforms like Google, showcasing the financial benefits and enhanced patient acquisition strategies for dent...
Episode #276: Does being a PPO Provider Help You Achieve an Effective Work-Life Balance?
January 25, 2024 09:00 - 17 minutes - 32.8 MBGary and Naren explore whether being a PPO provider truly supports work-life balance. This episode challenges the belief that PPO status aligns with equilibrium, emphasizing the sacrifices practitioners make. Discover actionable steps to reclaim balance and why cutting ties with PPO plans might be the key to professional success and personal well-being. Tune in for a fresh perspective on dental practice management.
Episode #275: What is the Best Way to Determine an Appropriate Fee Schedule?
January 18, 2024 09:00 - 20 minutes - 38.1 MBIn this episode, Gary and Naren discuss the vital need for dental practices to reassess fee schedules, moving away from heavy reliance on PPO plans. They highlight the impact of stagnant fees on profitability and offer strategies for recalibrating prices to reflect fair value and cover rising costs. Explore insights into attracting non-PPO patients and maintaining a balanced pricing strategy amid an evolving dental landscape. Tune in for actionable tips on navigating fee schedules to drive...
Episode #274: Could your BHAG for 2024 be Successfully Resigning from PPO Plans?
January 11, 2024 09:00 - 17 minutes - 31.8 MBIn this episode, Gary and Naren explore BHAGs (Big Hairy Audacious Goals) in business, inspired by Jim Collins and Peter Diamandis. They center on dentistry's BHAG: quitting PPO plans for practice success. Gary emphasizes the strategic impact and offers actionable steps for reducing insurance reliance, guiding dentists toward transformative changes in their practices.
Episode #273: 'How to Apply the Influence Principle of Unity in your Practice
January 04, 2024 09:00 - 18 minutes - 34.2 MBGary and Naren discuss Dr. Cialdini's unity principle. They highlight its power through initiatives like supplying NFL-grade mouthguards to local teams and creating strong community connections. They contrast this supportive unity with skepticism in traditional dental circles, emphasizing unity's transformative impact on dental practices.
Episode #272: One Dentist's Surprise Discovery When He Resigned as a Delta PPO Provider
December 28, 2023 09:00 - 19 minutes - 36.2 MBThis episode delves into the nuances of projecting confidence without appearing arrogant, especially in the dental field. It narrates a dentist's unexpected revelation after parting ways with a major insurance provider, highlighting the fears and innovative strategies employed to address patient concerns. Ultimately, it showcases the power of proactive planning and teamwork in achieving a surprising, positive outcome.
Episode #271: How to Apply the Influence Principle of Scarcity in Your Practice
December 21, 2023 09:00 - 17 minutes - 32.1 MBIn this episode, Gary and Naren discuss scarcity as a potent influence principle in professional practice, inspired by Doctor Robert Chinni's teachings. They explore its impact on demand using Apple's iPhone launches as an example. Strategies for dental practices, like special service days and time-limited offers, highlight scarcity's influence. As the most transformative yet challenging principle, they guide listeners in applying this influential strategy in their professional endeavors.
Episode #270: Help! I'm Contracted with Many More PPO Plans than Expected
December 14, 2023 09:00 - 19 minutes - 34.8 MBJoin Gary and Naren on the Less Insurance Dependence Podcast as they unravel the challenge of dentists being tied to unexpected PPO plans. Explore strategies to reveal hidden contracts, understand specifics, and employ proactive marketing to reduce reliance, regain control, and minimize financial impact on your practice.
Episode #269: How to Apply the Influence Principles of Commitment and Consistency in Your Practice
December 07, 2023 09:00 - 19 minutes - 35.2 MBExplore how beliefs shape actions through commitment and consistency. Discover actionable dental strategies leveraging these principles for enhanced patient engagement and practice success.
Episode #268: Lessons from the 2023 RIDA Virtual Summit
November 30, 2023 09:00 - 20 minutes - 38.3 MBIn this episode, Gary and Naren discuss lessons from the successful 2023 RIDA Virtual Summit. They talk about how more dentists need to learn to rely more on insurance, taking action for practice growth. They touch on economic challenges within networks and the importance of marketing, highlighting the happier and more profitable outcomes for dentists who've reduced insurance ties. The episode emphasizes the need for expert guidance in this transformative process, offering listeners access t...
Episode #267: How to Apply the Influence Principle of 'Reciprocity' in Your Practice
November 23, 2023 09:00 - 19 minutes - 36.1 MBGary and Naren discuss influencing patients in dentistry. They share seven principles from Dr. Robert Cialdini, highlighting reciprocity – doing something nice makes others want to reciprocate. They emphasize how these small actions can build strong connections with patients, offering valuable insights for dentists to succeed through meaningful relationships.
Episode #266: Successfully Reducing Your Insurance Dependence INCREASES the Value of your Practice!
November 16, 2023 09:00 - 18 minutes - 34.7 MBIn this episode, Gary and Narin explore how reducing insurance dependence in your dental practice can significantly enhance its long-term value. By attracting fee-for-service patients and eliminating unnecessary PPO plans, profitability increases, making your practice more attractive. They also discuss the possibility of selling to a Dental Service Organization (DSO).
Episode #265: How to Apply the Influence Principle of 'Authority' in Your Practice
November 09, 2023 09:00 - 18 minutes - 33 MBIn this episode, Gary and Naren explore the Influence Principle of Authority in your dental practice. They discuss establishing yourself as an expert using doctor testimonials from the Doctor's Choice Awards platform. They also highlight the importance of backlinks for SEO. By applying the Authority Principle, you can reduce insurance dependence and build patient trust. Discover how to become the trusted authority in your field and increase your influence.
Episode #264: Are there PPO Plans Worth Keeping?
November 02, 2023 08:00 - 19 minutes - 36.1 MBIn this podcast, Naren and Gary discuss the financial impact of keeping PPO plans for dental practices. They highlight the rising expenses, reduced income, and the need to reconsider their viability in the face of evolving economic conditions.
Episode #263: How to Apply the Influence Principle of 'Liking' in Your Practice
October 26, 2023 08:00 - 19 minutes - 36.2 MBIn this episode, Gary and Naren explore Dr. Robert Cialdini's principle of "liking" as a key element in reducing insurance dependence in dental practices. They emphasize the importance of creating a personal connection with patients, both online and in-person, and offer practical strategies for building likability. They also discuss the value of educational videos in simplifying complex dental concepts to enhance the dentist's approachability. Join them for actionable insights on boosting th...
Episode #262: 5 Ways Being a PPO Practice Keeps You from Creating an Ideal Practice
October 19, 2023 08:00 - 18 minutes - 34.5 MBIn this episode, Gary and Naren explore how PPO dental practices can face significant challenges in achieving their ideal practice. They discuss five key hurdles, including maintaining patient relationships, financial limitations due to insurance write-offs, insurance-driven patient mindsets, difficulties in hiring and retaining top team members, and limitations in offering high-value, life-changing dental services.
Episode #261: How to Apply the Influence Principle of 'Social Proof' in Your Practice
October 12, 2023 08:00 - 23 minutes - 43.9 MBIn this episode, Gary and Naren explore the power of social proof in dentistry. They discuss the dependency on PPO insurance plans and the importance of breaking free from this model. Emphasizing Google reviews as a tool to build trust, they share a five-step strategy for effective review gathering.
Episode #260: 3 Mistakes Dentists Make With their Membership Plan
October 05, 2023 08:00 - 21 minutes - 38.8 MBIn this captivating podcast episode, Gary highlights "Three Mistakes Dentists Make with their Membership Plan." Experience the wisdom of an industry expert as he unravels these common pitfalls, championing the virtue of simplicity. Gary offers actionable advice on crafting a straightforward, single-plan approach, targeting a broader audience, and setting the optimal discount percentage at 10%. Tune in for a concise yet enlightening exploration of dental membership plans and their potential t...
Episode #259: The Messy Middle
September 28, 2023 08:00 - 19 minutes - 35.8 MBThis episode explores the critical phase called "The Messy Middle" in dental practice transitions. After leaving insurance networks, practices encounter various patient reactions, requiring effective communication. Face-to-face conversations are essential for conveying nuances. While some patient loss is anticipated, practices with strong relationships tend to retain loyal patients who value their unique care experience. Expect "boomerang patients" to return after exploring other options. Pr...
Episode #258: Actual Data from a Dental Practice that has Successfully Dropped PPO Plans
September 21, 2023 08:00 - 19 minutes - 36.6 MBExplore the transformation of a solo dentist practice as it strategically reduces insurance dependency. This podcast episode showcases how the practice, initially hesitant to drop major insurance plans, experienced remarkable financial improvements. In 2021, it generated $1.9 million in production, collecting $1.4 million while writing off over $500,000. By 2022, the practice collected $1.7 million with reduced overhead, highlighting the positive impact of reduced insurance reliance on both ...
Episode #257: How is the Best Way to Respond When Patients Ask: 'Why are You Dropping My Dental Insurance?
September 14, 2023 08:00 - 19 minutes - 36.5 MBGary and Naren dive into why some dental practices drop insurance plans in this episode. They emphasize the importance of a patient-friendly approach, tailoring responses to individual patients, and maintaining consistency in communication. The episode explores various scenarios and strategies for addressing patients' concerns with empathy and transparency, ensuring a positive patient experience.
Episode #256: Are PPO Plans Softening Their Stance on Negotiating?
September 07, 2023 08:00 - 19 minutes - 36 MBJoin Gary and Naren in exploring dental insurance PPO plan negotiation intricacies. Revealing insurers' covert strategies, they debate if PPO plans are softening negotiation stances. Although PPOs typically resist negotiation, recent shifts suggest a change. Plans now propose fee schedules to retain resigning dentists. Gary urges dentists to boost confidence, explore diverse patient strategies, and stand up to insurance dominance. Attracting patients for reasons beyond network affiliations i...
Episode #255: Can You Successfully Resign from Delta?
August 31, 2023 08:00 - 17 minutes - 32.2 MBJoin Gary and Naren in this episode as they tackle the question, "Can You Successfully Resign From Delta?" Gain insights into reducing insurance dependence, building confidence, and transitioning towards practice control. Explore the journey from doubt to success.
Episode #254: Are You A Victim of One and Done' Thinking?
August 24, 2023 08:00 - 19 minutes - 36.2 MBGary discusses the 'One and Done Thinking' trap in this episode, focusing on areas like Google reviews, verbal skills training, heads-up conversations, and team member recognition. He emphasizes that success requires ongoing effort rather than one-time actions. Gary and Naren highlight the value of consistency in these aspects for dental practice growth.
Episode #253: Are You A Victim of One and Done' Thinking?
August 24, 2023 08:00 - 19 minutes - 36.2 MBGary discusses the 'One and Done Thinking' trap in this episode, focusing on areas like Google reviews, verbal skills training, heads-up conversations, and team member recognition. He emphasizes that success requires ongoing effort rather than one-time actions. Gary and Naren highlight the value of consistency in these aspects for dental practice growth.
Episode #253: Have you Been Roped Into Umbrella PPO Plans?
August 17, 2023 08:00 - 18 minutes - 32.9 MBUnveil the hidden challenges of umbrella PPO dental plans with Gary's insights. Gain clarity on active patients, resignation periods, and strategies to break free from entanglements. Learn how to transition to comprehensive marketing and attract patients who value your services beyond insurance dependency.
Episode #252: Five Things to Do NOW to Prepare to Resign from PPO Plans
August 10, 2023 08:00 - 18 minutes - 33.9 MBIn this highly informative episode, Gary reveals five crucial steps to help dentists prepare for resigning from PPO plans. Drawing from his extensive experience, he emphasizes the importance of proper preparation through success and failure stories. Tune in for actionable insights and expert guidance to set your practice up for success.
Episode #251: When Would I Recommend NOT Resigning from PPO Plans?
August 03, 2023 08:00 - 19 minutes - 35.6 MBIn this podcast, Gary and Naren discuss when resigning from PPO plans is not advisable. They identify three critical attributes: needing more reasons for patients to choose the practice, being a reliable source of new patients beyond PPO plans, and being transaction-driven instead of relationship-driven. These insights help dentists make informed decisions about their practices and the implications of resigning from PPO plans.
Episode #250: Is Delta on the Ropes?
July 27, 2023 08:00 - 20 minutes - 38.2 MBIn this episode, Gary and Naren discuss the changing landscape of dental insurance, with Delta being defensive. They explore the factors influencing Delta's policies and offer insights for dental practices to navigate the evolving environment successfully.
Episode #249: Strategies to Get Your Team Members On Board When Resigning from PPO Plans
July 20, 2023 08:00 - 19 minutes - 36.1 MBIn this Less Insurance Dependence Podcast episode, Naren and Gary discuss strategies to get team members on board when resigning from PPO plans. They emphasize the importance of team alignment, training, and communicating the benefits of the change to ensure a successful transition.
Episode #248: A Great Way to Help Your Patients Who Pay for their Own Dental Insurance!
July 13, 2023 08:00 - 16 minutes - 30.3 MBIn this episode, discover how to empower patients who purchase their own dental insurance. Learn about a more beneficial in-office membership plan and its advantages, including cost savings, flexibility, and increased patient loyalty. Don't miss out on this valuable insight!
Episode #247: Are There PPO Plans that do not Pay Out of Network Benefits?
July 06, 2023 16:00 - 19 minutes - 35.5 MBDive into the world of PPO plans as Gary demystifies out-of-network benefits. Learn the crucial distinctions between open and closed panel plans and discover how in-office membership options can provide superior coverage at lower costs. Join the conversation for essential insights in this enlightening podcast episode.
Episode #246: Case Study: How One Practice Added $250K per year in Invisalign Cases
June 29, 2023 08:00 - 19 minutes - 35.8 MBDiscover how a dental practice added $250k annually with Invisalign cases. Gary and Naren delve into strategies, including high-profit services and the impact of adult orthodontics. Overcome challenges like PPO plans by offering desired treatments.
Episode #245: Using Video as a Patient Communication Medium when Resigning from PPO Plans
June 22, 2023 08:00 - 21 minutes - 39.4 MBDiscover the potential of video communication in dental practices. Learn how incorporating facial expressions, tone, and body language enhances patient understanding when resigning from PPO plans. With concise 2-3 minute videos, practitioners effectively convey changes while emphasizing quality care and personalized experiences, maximizing patient retention, and transforming PPO plan resignations.
Episode #244: Are You Busy Making Money or Losing Money?
June 15, 2023 08:00 - 20 minutes - 18.7 MBGary and Naren delve into the busyness-productivity dichotomy, exposing the deceptive nature of our obsession with busyness. Sharing personal experiences, they emphasize intentionality and focus for optimal results. They also explore the financial dangers of an unproductive dental practice, emphasizing hygiene, patient retention, and productivity's impact on profitability.
Episode #243: A Strategy To Keep More of Your Existing PPO Patients When You Resign
June 08, 2023 08:00 - 19 minutes - 35.4 MBJoin Gary and Naren in this episode as they tackle the pressing issue of dentists' dissatisfaction with PPO providers and escalating costs. Discover the rising popularity of a valuable resource for dentists seeking ways to reduce insurance dependence and navigate these challenging times in the dental industry.
Episode #242: 3 Simple Additions to Your Website That Will Help More Potential Patients Choose You
June 01, 2023 08:00 - 22 minutes - 31.2 MBUncover the key to dental marketing success in this captivating podcast episode. Gary and Naren unveil three potent website additions that entice and convert prospective patients. Gain invaluable insights from Dr. Cialdini's expertise in the science of influence and dominate the market by mastering Google's organic search strategies.
Episode #241: Is Hygiene Even Viable with PPO Fees?
May 25, 2023 08:00 - 19 minutes - 35 MBJoin us as we delve into the intricacies of managing a dental practice and explore the impact of hygiene services on PPO fees. We analyze dental practices' financial challenges in high-cost states like California and question the viability of providing hygiene services within specific PPO plans. Discover the advantages of a hygiene-driven practice and the importance of regular appointments for maintaining oral health while addressing financial realities. Inspired by a conversation with a Cal...
Episode #240: Leverage the Voice of Your Patients
May 18, 2023 08:00 - 21 minutes - 38.5 MBDiscover how to master Google reviews in this episode and dominate your dental practice's search results. Learn the importance of the character of reviews and how they can influence SEO. Gary challenges you to become the dental practice with the most Google reviews in your community and shares success stories of those who have achieved this. Plus, hear how online reviews have transformed consumer decision-making and how leveraging patients' voices can build trust and attract new patients.