DCA Insider - 30th Anniversary Edition - April 2021 by Kelly Stillman

Celebrating Thirty Years of Driving Dentistry Forward

Our mission

To advance the practice of dentistry by partnering with and supporting dental professionals to create a lifetime of healthy smiles Our vision

To be the trusted partner of choice for the industry’s best dental professionals

Our values

Unleash potential

Serve first

Move forward

We make our allied practices and team members better by allowing them to focus on, and develop their strengths. We help to unlock growth in people and practices that wouldn’t be possible alone.

We always look out for our customers, because when we do, the rest takes care of itself. Our customers can be our allied practices, other team members, or the patient. No matter the customer, they are always our first thought.

We look for ways to grow with our partners. Our continuous drive to try new things and to learn from them enables us to improve and innovate.

Improve lives

Lead together

Expect excellence

We inspire and improve the lives of each other and those in the communities that we serve. Our allied practices and support center are committed to making a difference.

We celebrate the differences that make our team members and allied practices unique. We learn from the best of each other and grow stronger together.

We are not average and we will not settle for average. We take pride in everything we do because everything we do supports our customers.

CONTENTS

THE ANNIVERSARY ISSUE FEATURES April 2021

Message from the CEO: 30 Years an Ally and a Leader

DCA One Plan: Positioning DCA for Success in Our Next 30 Years

JERRY RHODE S

As DCA reaches a remarkable milestone, CEO Jerry Rhodes reflects on our past and optimistically looks forward to the post-COVID landscape.

JEFF KOZIEL

DCA Brand Refresh: A New Year. A New Look.

U-SMILE Foundation: Giving Back to Those in Need

SHAWN WHERRY

CR AIG MURR AY

A complete revitalization of DCA’s outward appearance, a new stateof-the-art website and improved messaging to better reflect who DCA is today.

As we enter the 30th year of DCA it is with great pride we officially kick off the U-SMILE Foundation.

Reach More Families: Marketing & Patient Access

Supporting Our Allies: Talent & Human Resources

JAME S NICK

GARTH MCMULLEN STEVE DUVAL

After a successful effort to help fill schedules by the PSR SWAT team last year, continued comprehensive support will enable our office staffs to focus on patients with unscheduled treatment plans.

Safe Smiles Initiative Leaders in the Fight Against COVID-19: Saying ‘Yes’ to the Vaccine Getting vaccinated is an important step you can take to protect yourself and your colleagues, patients, families, and communities from COVID-19.

President Jeff Koziel assembles a team to build on a comprehensive plan for DCA, keeping our offices and patients at the center of everything we do.

18 30 for 30 Stories Thirty stories highlighting interesting people demonstrating excellence and passion in their chosen craft. With the 30th Anniversary edition of the Insider, we celebrate our great organization and the superlative individuals who make it up.

DCA believes that its people are the greatest asset. Supporting them is priority number one. Novel approaches to hiring and adding benefits prove critical in the time of COVID-19.

06 Our History

10 Long Time Allies

60 DCA Support

62 Department

A look at DCA Milestones over the past 30 Years

Directory

Celebrating 30 Years of Service (And More!)

58 330+ Allied Practices DCA supported practices by state

Quick Reference Guide, DCA Clinical Leadership

ISSUE 7 / APRIL 2021

The Vital Few

Improve the operational support of our dental professionals

Today, the most successful organizations in the world focus their teams on a Vital Few to align efforts and to drive execution at every level. This idea, known as the Pareto Principle, can be applied to everything from healthy living to critical socioeconomic challenges. Our greatest opportunity to affect significant and lasting change at DCA is to systematically focus our

allowing them to optimize their

attention on the Vital Few versus the Trivial Many.

our geographic footprint in new

Outlined to the right are Dental Care Alliance’s Vital Few for 2021, as identified by our senior leaders, that will serve as our measures of success in the coming year.

capabilities to provide high quality and state-of-the-art dental healthcare

Reach more families in need of quality dental healthcare

Create lasting value and expand and existing markets through the affiliation of dynamic, growthoriented practices

Improve communication at all levels of the company, promulgating our culture of service, quality and success

MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

othing commends success as much as longevity, and 30 years for a company is a remarkable milestone. I want to recognize DCA’s entry into a very special place, for so few companies can make it past just a few years of operation. 30 years puts the company into some very rarefied air. It is hard to believe the circuitous route the company has traveled but it did, and we are all very grateful to be part of this unique organization and recognize its awesome legacy. Magnifying the accomplishment of operating for 30 years is the fact that the 29th year of DCA’s existence was one of inconceivable and unprecedented challenge, not just for the company, but the entire field of dentistry. Now, looking at 2020 in the rearview mirror, it severely tested the organization and our team, and we are all stronger for it. Although we are well into 2021 and still grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic and its continued effects, at least there is now an optimism and enthusiasm that there is a tangible end in sight. Now in our 30th year of operation and reflecting over the past year, we can take stock of what will change because of COVID. For DCA here are few predictions of post-COVID change:

We will continue to lead the field of dentistry in critical areas of patient accessibility and experience. This is a significant competitive advantage. The past year created additional impediments for patient access in all of dentistry. Ease of access and assurance of patient safety are essential advantages DCA does and will continue to offer.

successfully executed because we had the benefit of data and analytics that guided us in decisive ways. Data and analytics are a key competitive advantage for DCA.

The pace of affiliations will increase over the remainder of 2021. There are numerous reasons— tax changes under a new administration, postCOVID practice burnout, PPE supply issues, to name a few. The industry recognizes that DSOs generate heighted success in times of crisis. Our footprint will ambitiously expand in our 30th year and beyond.

and responding to the voice of the 4. Listening patient is essential to our continued evolution as an organization. The COVID crisis has magnified the criticality of this. Because we now effectively listen and respond to the issues and opinions of patients, we have improved access. During the past months this has been, at times, a painful process but the ability to effectively heed and respond to patient perspectives is essential. The past year and our 30th year demonstrate two fundamental attributes of DCA— “Stronger together” and “Stronger than ever”. I am very grateful to be part of this company and celebrate the legacy and mission of DCA for the next 30 years.

and the use of data are an integral 2. Analytics part of how we manage the company at every level of service. Our rapid and effective exit from the early 2020 COVID shutdown was

Jerry Rhodes Chief Executive Officer Ally since 2017

ISSUE 7 / APRIL 2021

A Rich History of Growth Our model has evolved, but our commitment is unwavering Dental Care Alliance’s success is the result of our commitment to improving the wellbeing of both patients and dental professionals through innovative and proven practice-support solutions. Fast forward 30 years, DCA has more than 330 allied practices in 20 states, encompassing all facets of general dentistry and all recognized dental specialties.

1991

1998

2000

2001

Dr. Steven Matzkin starts DCA with 2 practices in Florida

DCA affiliates with 28 practices in Pennsylvania and Georgia

DCA affiliates with 20 practices in Maryland and Indiana

DCA separates from Interdent to operate as a private company again

1994

Mitch Olan joins DCA as COO, now serves as Executive Chairman of the Board

1997

Dave Nichols joins DCA as CFO, now serves as a DCA Board Member

DCA becomes a publicly traded company

DCA INSIDER THE ANNIVERSARY ISSUE

1999

DCA merges with Gentle Dental to form Interdent

2001-11 2012

DCA invests $70 million in infrastructure, renovations and relocations; affiliates with 20 additional practices

DCA begins their relationship with private equity partner, Quad C

OUR HISTORY

2012

2016

2017

2019

2021

DCA affiliates with a 55 location practice group led by Mike Bileca and Dr. Don Gallo

North East Dental Management led by Dr. Craig Abramowitz, grows to 65 practices and joins DCA. He now serves as a DCA Board Member.

Jerry Rhodes joins DCA as Chief Executive Officer

DCA surpasses 300 supported dental offices

330 affiliated practices and growing

2014 2015

DCA affiliates with Imagix Dental, a 9-location group in Georgia

2016

2018

DCA affiliates with Konikoff Dentistry, 8 locations in Virgina Beach. Dental Associates of Florida also joins DCA with 11 locations in the Tampa area

Among other affiliations for the year, DCA affiliates with 10 orthodontic affiliations in multiple states: Klar Voorhees Orthodontics, Eckels Orthodontics and Ashcraft Orthodontic Group

DCA brings in Harvest Capital Partners, a larger PE firm with greater resources to support growth

2019

2020

Jeffrey Koziel joins DCA as president

DCA CARES launched in support of dentists and dental staff affected by COVID-19

In addition to other new affiliations, DCA affiliates with 17 Orthodontic and Specialty practices in multiple states; DCA creates Orthodontic Division with 40 affiliated practices

ISSUE 7 / APRIL 2021

Positioning DCA for Success in Our Next 30 Years

Jeff Koziel President Ally since 2020

At DCA, we regularly begin meetings with the importance of being aligned as an organization to our mission, vision, values, and the Vital Few. It is imperative that we each understand the direction of the company, and how we as individuals contribute to the success of DCA. There are many terrific teams across the business working to innovate and improve processes in our practices. This is what sets us apart from others in the industry. When I joined DCA and began my onboarding in October, I had the opportunity to meet many of our talented leaders in both the Support Center and our practices. Throughout these

DCA INSIDER THE ANNIVERSARY ISSUE

conversations, which were all unique and important to me, one thing was consistent – a focus on putting the practice first and taking care of our teams and patients. Another thing that struck me was the tremendous amount of work going on to improve the business. Many of you have heard about the One Plan or maybe have talked about it with your manager. It is a simple, but important concept: a single approach to managing and aligning our many priorities, to better focus DCA on supporting our teams and practices so that they can continue to deliver exceptional patient care. Last December, I assembled several members of the executive team to begin

work on a comprehensive plan, including Russell Allen, Dr. Gallo, Dale Hockel, James Nick, Dave Pegg, David Quigley, and Kelly Stillman. In our first of several meetings, we identified and catalogued all current, on hold, or upcoming initiatives and reviewed each for importance. We then organized these priorities on the Vital Few focus areas that have always been the cornerstone of our strategy and will always keep our offices and patients at the center of everything we do. Each of these aligned priorities was assigned an owner to enlist a team and manage it to completion. For example, one of the aligned priorities is “Maximize Capacity.” We are all working

DCA ONE PLAN

The Vital Few

Operations Support

Reach More Families

Expand Our Footprint

Improve Communication

hard to increase patient access and make sure that our practices can safely care for as many individuals as possible. However, our analytics show an opportunity to better match supply and demand. Across our alliance of practices, we have many facilities that are under-utilized, meaning that they have space and/ or operatories that aren’t used at all, or aren’t used 5 days per week. In some cases, we have doctors that share time between offices, leaving offices dark part of the time. In other offices we have strong patient demand but not enough providers to see them all. All these instances lead to missed opportunities to see more patients. Dale Hockel, our Chief Operating Officer, is leading the team which is already hard at work to increase capacity. The team is adding hours for existing providers, hiring incremental new providers, participating in a weekly

PattiAnn Lindsay, PSR Baystate Dental of Westfield Ally since 2019

Kristen Duncan, PSR Gentle Dental of St. Clair Shores Ally since 2008

cadence call to drive action and accountability, and completing training to educate and align the teams. There is opportunity to increase efficiencies in scheduling, and elevate the patient experience, as well. As the COVID-19 vaccine is rolled out more broadly, more patients will likely be ready to return to the office, if they have not already. Through this work to maximize capacity, we will be better positioned to improve patient access, meet the increased patient demand, fully utilize our space, and accelerate same store growth. At its core, the capacity utilization (and all One Plan) work is intended to help us focus on the things that you can control, the tasks you complete every day, the ways that you contribute to the overall success of each patient visit and the day’s production, how you perform as a practice, and how we are doing as an organization. Each of us plays an important part in our collective success. Capacity utilization requires the focus of our PSR team in managing an excellent patient experience. A few of our own front-line team members committed to making a difference for their respective practices are pictured below. As an example, our PSRs are in the office, working hard every day to call and converse with our patients. Whether a new or recall patient, a parent, or caregiver, the PSR is the first voice that our patients often hear. The patience and demeanor to reach out and schedule patients, take calls and answer questions, welcome patients as they arrive in the office, explain our safety protocols and ways we are safely serving smiles, these men and women are indispensable to our practices. It has been an unexpected but exciting six months in my journey at DCA. From continuing to manage the pandemic, to helping to educate and guide our team members in getting the groundbreaking vaccine, to recovering after the security incident – there has been no shortage of ups and downs. I have been impressed by the way this team has overcome the obstacles, and celebrated victories large and small. These challenges will certainly remain, and new ones will likely emerge. With our continued resolve, teamwork, and focus on the things that matter most, I have no doubt we will be successful and stronger than ever. Looking ahead to the second half of 2021, with the One Plan I am confident that we will be more aligned and organized in our priorities as we move ahead in the next 30 years. Thank you for all the ways that you contribute to our legacy of success. Happy Birthday DCA, and here’s to the next 30 years! ISSUE 7 / APRIL 2021

Celebrating 30 Years of Service (and More!) Dental Care Alliance would like to acknowledge all team members who share our anniversary year, as well as those who have been in the game even longer! Thank you for your commitment and dedication to creating healthy smiles for life! Happy Anniversary!

Allies since 1991 Michelle Burns, RDH New Castle Dental Associates

Lorraine Ciccotta Office Manager, Dental Solutions of Cedarbrook

Addie Darden Office Manager, College Park Dental

Christal Gruzs, RDH Main Street Children’s Dentistry & Orthodontics of Perring Parkway

Janice Gamble, RDH Main Street Children’s Dentistry & Orthodontics of Havre de Grace

Lisa Khandakji Office Manager, Dental One Associates of Woodson Square

Amy Hall Office Manager, Ashcraft Orthodontics of Little Rock

Bruce Littman, DMD Garden State Dental of East Brunswick

Susan Lobaton, DMD American Dental Center of Union Sharon Lovett Dental Assistant, Dental Solutions of Upper Darby Rebecca Nukes Credentialing Coordinator, Support Center Lissette Ojeda-Almaguer Lead Dental Assistant, Dental Specialty Center of Cutler Bay

Kimberly Morris Office Manager, Superior Dental Group Wendy Radovic Patient Service Representative Lighthouse Dental Care

Allies since 1988 Edan Blumenthal, DMD Dental Solutions of Media Teresa Brown Office Manager, Dental Associates of Florida Brooksville Dina Butler Office Manager, Konikoff Dental Associates of Battlefield Boulevard Tracy Dein Office Manager, Long Island Dental Specialty Susanne Furey Office Manager, Ramapo Dental Care James Gusmano, DMD Ramapo Dental Care

Cheryl Tragesser, RDH The Dental Center of Granger

Jennifer Lenhart Dental Assistant, Dental Solutions of Grant Avenue

Allies since 1989

Mary Paniccia Patient Service Representative Dental One Associates of College Park

Cynthia Sakowski Dental Arts of New Jersey

Marci Binns Office Manager, Dental Solutions of Grant Avenue

Regina Sheerin Dental Assistant, Konikoff Dental Associates of Cedar Road

April Bourassa Office Manager, Advanced Dental Care of Pembroke Pines

Frieda Simmons Patient Service Representative Patrick Toms, DMD

Florita Dawson Office Manager, Dental Solutions of Upper Darby

Laureen Pawlowski Administrative Assistant, Northeast Region Michael Polifko, DDS Polifko & Dvorak Janelle Reese Dental Assistant The Dental Center of South Bend, Pediatrics

Neil Kesselman, DDS Family Dental Care of Fishkill

Gloria Washington Patient Service Representative College Park Dental

Arthur Adams, DDS Huntington Family Dental Group

Marty Legum, DDS Dental Associates of Northern Virginia of Alexandria

Diane Weaver Patient Service Representative Lighthouse Dental Care

Michael Ashcraft, DDS, MS Ashcraft Orthodontics

Xuan Nguyen, RDH Brad Freedman, DDS & Associates

Melanie Bruzzo, RDH Ramapo Dental Care

Jan Thurnau Treatment Coordinator

Allies since 1990

DCA INSIDER THE ANNIVERSARY ISSUE

LONG TIME ALLIES

Allies since 1987

Allies since 1983

Allies since 1978

Sheila Birth, DDS Orthodontics by Birth and Fletcher, Keller

Denise Dinardo-Sheehan, RDH Ramapo Dental Care

Teresa Morgan, RDH Patrick Toms, DMD

Sue Lortie Regional Manager, Georgia

Bernie Kogut Dental Assistant, Main Street Children’s Dentistry and Orthodontics of Forest Hill

Shari Schmit, RDH Maple Shade Dental Group of Dunlap

Cheryl Sanderlin Dental Assistant, Konikoff Dental Associates of General Booth

Stacey Schultz Dental Assistant, Orthodontics by Birth & Fletcher, Burleson Sandra Thompson Office Manager, Main Street Children’s Dentistry & Orthodontics of Forest Hill

Allies since 1986 Judith Bean Patient Service Representative Polifko & Divorak

Mary Van Haelen Office Manager, Konikoff Dental Associates of General Booth Denise Warwick Office Supervisor Dental One Associates of Waldorf

Allies since 1982 Justine Antonatos Billing Supervisor, New York CBU

Mitchel Blumenthal, DMD Dental Solutions of Media

Leslie DiSerafino Regional Manager, Virginia

Brad Freedman, DDS Brad Freedman, DDS & Associates

Wayne Schecht, DDS Dental Associates of Northern Virginia of Fairfax

Linda Geiger Dental Assistant, Dental Solutions of Deptford Judith Miarecki Office Supervisor, Baystate Dental of Sturbridge Kathleen Manuel Office Manager, New Castle Dental Associates Linda Panera Patient Service Representative Dental Solutions of Jenkintown

Allies since 1985 Steven Chamish, DDS New Castle Dental Associates Robert Friedberg, DDS, PA New Castle Dental Associates Tamara Lucas, RDH Dental One Associates of Bel Air Tammy Maginot Lab Technician, The Dental Center of South Bend Claire Manganelli, RDH Ramapo Dental Care Catherine Peters, Office Manager American Dental Center

Allies since 1981 Cathy Carlock Office Manager, Dental One Associates of Dalton Carol Charen Office Manager Thurm Dental Group Gary Greenspan, DDS Dental Associates of Northern Virginia of Fair Oaks Michael Lasher, DDS Dental One Associates of Waldorf

Allies since 1980 Debra Kent Dental Assistant Imray and Gesek Oral Surgery

Allies since 1979 David Konikoff, DDS Konikoff Dental Associates

Esther Torres, RDH Dental Associates of Kendall East

Geraldine Kromkowski, RDH The Dental Center of South Bend, Pediatrics

Allies since 1984

Trina Schultheis Dental Assistant, The Dental Center of South Bend, Pediatrics

Richard Douglas, DDS Superior Dental Group Robin Kanowicz, RDH Dental One Associates of Waldorf

Judy Lees Dental Assistant Gentle Dental of Allentown David Butts, DDS Dental Associates of Northern Virginia Skyline Susan Spier, RDH The Dental Center of South Bend Pediatrics

Allies since 1977 Edward Fishman, DDS Dental Associates of Northern Virginia Falls Church Robert Lebonitte, DDS Dental Associates of Northern Virginia Tysons Corner and Falls Church Carole Morales Patient Service Representative Dental One Associate of Woodson Square

Allies since 1976 Michael Rotter, DDS Dental Associates of Northern Virginia Fair Oaks

Allies since 1975 Karen Austgen Office Manager, The Dental Center at South Bend

Allies since 1974 Linda Mouros Patient Service Representative The Dental Center at South Bend

Allies since 1973 Stephen Price, DDS Dental Associates of Northern Virginia Burke Richard Rausch, DDS Richard Rausch, DDS

Ally since 1958 Stanley Brager, DDS College Park Dental

Carolyn Trott Dental Assistant, Dental One Associates of Annapolis

ISSUE 7 / APRIL 2021

A New Year. A New Look. DCA’s updated logo features clean lines and a modernized feel.

Our People Set Us Apart DCA’s new sleek, modern state-of-the-art website and social pages feature familiar DCA faces and their personal stories of success.

DCA INSIDER THE ANNIVERSARY ISSUE

DCA BRAND REFRESH

In January we marked our 30th anniversary with exciting updates to our DCA brand – a complete revitalization of our outward appearance, a new stateof-the-art website and improved messaging to better reflect who DCA is today. We are a collective of allies joined together by our shared mission to advance the practice of dentistry. We know that you – our people and our partners – are what make DCA the strongest alliance in the industry. Over the last 30 years, we’ve grown and evolved, but we’ve never lost sight of what is most important. Together we can and do achieve great things. Together we are changing lives and unleashing potential. We wanted our branding and external image to reflect this strength and show the accomplishments we all achieve together. Our history is our foundation, and our unwavering commitment to partnership, support and collaboration is our pathway to another 30 years of success. We will go further as allies.

Sara Najafi, DMD | Ally since 2020 Photography featured in our updated marketing pieces focuses on our own DCA employees — our allies.

Quatro Brand hue - DCA’s new typeface Quatro is undeniably modern and a reimagined color palette brings the engergy with electric blue balanced by dark midnight blue.

Visit dentalcarealliance.com and meet just some of your allies. The new website features DCA employees, doctors and partners telling their stories of success. See and hear their DCA stories firsthand. Visit the website to view several ally stories and be inspired by our newly created DCA brand video — a testament to our rich legacy of success, evolution and bright future.

Share Your DCA Story!

Shawn Wherry Vice President, Marketing

We’d love to hear from you and feature you in our new marketing. Contact Shawn Wherry at swherry@dentalcarealliance.com

Ally since 2006

ISSUE 7 / APRIL 2021

Giving Back to Those in Need

Craig Murray Division Vice President, West Ally since 2016

As we enter the 30th year of DCA it is with great pride that we officially kick off the U-SMILE Foundation. Throughout 2020 and now into 2021, we have found there is a great need to support the community, as well as our own team members. The three pillars of the foundation have been defined and will guide our efforts. Pillar one is providing free dental work to the underserved with a concentration on our veterans and children. The second is setting up and providing scholarships to current students in the dental field; and, the third is DCA CARES, a program developed during COVID-19 which helps our internal team members that might need extra support during any catastrophic event. Over the course of the last year we have seen the gap between those that need help and those that do not widen considerably. To give back is part of the fabric within DCA and all of our team members. We will be working with the regional operations teams and

DCA INSIDER THE ANNIVERSARY ISSUE

clinical leadership to provide 10 “Give Back Saturdays” over the course of the year. I know I am excited to help volunteer at many of them. We look to start our fundraising in earnest in the later part of the year, when we can possibly have a golf tournament. Also look out for a possible virtual 5K that would support the DCA CARES program.Along with the team, Shawn Wherry, Garth McMullen, Tracy Pham and Kelly Stillman, I look forward to sharing more on our progress in the next few months.

U-SMILE FOUNDATION 3 PILLARS

Providing free dental work to the underserved with a concentration on our veterans and children.

Setting up and providing scholarships to current students in the dental field.

Continuing the work of DCA CARES, a program developed during COVID-19 which helps our internal team members that might need extra support during any catastrophic event.

REACH MORE FAMILIES

Marketing and Patient Access

Chief Revenue Officer Ally since 2018

Many of you are aware of the enhanced effort last year from the Support Center to help fill schedules. To date, we have helped add 32,000 appointments back onto office schedules. Dubbed the PSR SWAT team initially, the success of this team in contacting patients and putting them back on the schedule led into a permanent solution kicking off in the first half of 2021. In an effort to better support our allied practices in filling schedules, we are evolving this team within marketing to provide more comprehensive support to our practices. The Scheduling Maximization Team, as it will be called, will have a goal to minimize patient leakage from our offices and schedules. Patient leakage occurs anytime a patient is due to be on the schedule but falls off. This could occur because a patient cancelled their appointment, a no show, or a patient did not have their next

the course of the first half of 2021. Please reach out to Erica Woolard with any questions and assistance in filling schedules. I look forward to a great 2021, working in partnership, to maximize our office schedules and reach more families in need of quality dental care.

32,000+ To date, the total number of patient appointments rescheduled by the PSR SWAT Team, now named the Scheduling Maximization Team

Appointments by Created Date 80K

70K

60K

APPOINTMENT COUNT

James Nick

appointment scheduled at time of walkout. The team will use a mix of automated messages, outbound calls, and outbound texts to proactively reach out to patients to schedule. In addition, the team will support inbound requests through the websites and chat. This more comprehensive support will enable our office staffs to focus on patients with unscheduled treatment plans (a prioritized list of patients with unscheduled treatment is now available for offices to use on Tableau). The team will continue rolling out these additional features over

50K

40K

30K

20K

10K

Feb 10, 19

May 5, 19

Jul 28, 19

Oct 20, 19

Jan 12, 20

Apr 5, 20

Jun 28, 20

Sep 20, 20

Dec 13, 20

Mar 7, 21

WEEK OF CREATED_DATE Ortho

Other Specialty

General

Pedo

Hygiene

This graph shows the success we’ve had collectively in scheduling record levels of appointments.

ISSUE 7 / APRIL 2021

New Approach to Recruiting Brings a Record Number of Providers in 2020

Garth McMullen Vice President, Talent Acquisition Ally since 2020

2020 was indeed unprecedented. The statement holds true for DCA’s Talent Acquisition Team as well. As offices began reopening the need for speed to hire was rampant. Our focus was serving our stakeholders and we took a look at our people processes and technology within Talent Acquisition. To that end, we identified the greatest areas for opportunity were leveraging and optimizing our applicant tracking system, iCIMS, and providing direct access to our hiring managers offering line of sight to candidate activity and a closer alignment with our TA team. By enhancing iCIMS, and building manager capability we in turn tweaked our recruiting, offer, and hiring process by reducing the steps from 18 to 7. In addition, we determined that Indeed.com was our best source of hiring. As a result of this learning, we engaged with Indeed to become a featured employer on the site, allowing us to post 40 featured 16

DCA INSIDER THE ANNIVERSARY ISSUE

jobs per month. As a featured employer, our posts float to the top search pages based on our heaviest click through candidate traffic. Understanding our relationship and visibility with Indeed we embarked on a course to enhance our Indeed.com page as well as our employer rating and we were successful in raising said rating from 2.6 to 3.1 (in the top 2 of the largest DSO’s posting positions on Indeed.com). In addition, we began to source candidates directly via the Linkedin platform; and, leveraged other tools including our internal Employee Referral Program, building relationships with Dental and Hygiene programs, LinkedIn, iHiredental.com, DentalPost.com, ZipRecruiter.com, Clouddentistry. com Facebook Groups, as well leveraging our vendor relationships. A collective hat-tip to Amanda Stevens, Barry Ames, Betsy Layhew, Christa Bass, Ellen Peacock, and Jeff Dreels for their continued commitment to our clients and candidates, and the grit they demonstrated while competing in the talent market during the most challenging times in recent history in the dental space. I would be remiss not to share the record DCA numbers of hire for 2020: 167 Dentists and Specialists, 184 Hygienists, 746 Dental Assistants and 570 PSRs.

RECORD DCA NUMBERS OF HIRE FOR 2020:

167

Dentists & Specialists

184

Hygienists

746

Dental Assistants

570 PSRs

With a focus on the acquisition of talent it was imperative to our success in 2020 to anchor our attention on our team member retention efforts during these challenging times. The fear of COVID, closing of schools, and difficulty securing child care were just a few of the headwinds we were faced with in retaining our employees as they made re-entry or entry into our practices. Our engagement

SUPPORTING OUR ALLIES

efforts were quite intentional with random check-ins, “thank yous”, and compelling communications efforts for enhanced talent engagement. As a result of our collective efforts with our Engagement Committee, Operations partners and Communications team we ended 2020 (20.5%) with a lower turnover rate than the previous year (22.9%).

4,500 team members. 330 practices. 20 states. 1 smile. smile! is DCA’s new Virtual Community! smile! is a new program designed exclusively for DCA team members to help us all be better involved in engaging and recognizing one another across the organization. You’ll stay in the know with the latest company news and updates, be able to quickly access important resources, recognize fellow team members who live our values, earn your own recognition, share feedback and suggestions, save money at popular retailers, and access wellbeing programs to help you grow. Be sure to log in today to get connected from your mobile device or computer at dcasmile.com. There is much more in store for 2021, as we continue to build our team, continuously improve iCIMS, and employ innovative sourcing tactics in concert with our marketing team, and enhance our social presence as we identify, isolate and hire the best in the industry.

DCA’s new virtual community, smile!, encourages everyone in the organization to be better involved in engagement and recognition.

Adding Important Benefits to Better Support You 2020 was a very busy and productive year for Human Resources. We were able to accomplish many goals related to benefits that we have been working to put into place for the last two years.

Surgery Plus was added in April, providing lower cost access to board certified surgeons. The SurgeryPlus™ program is a comprehensive benefit at NO ADDITIONAL COST that provides access to a premier network of high-performing, surgeons for non-emergent/planned surgical procedures for team members and their eligible, covered dependents on the BCBS medical plan.

Hinge health, a digital physical therapy provider was added to the plan in May, providing exercise therapy for back, knee hip, neck, and shoulder pain, with no additional cost to team members. All of the above options are available to team members and eligible dependents participating in the BCBS medical plan.

Teladoc services were put into place early in 2020, making it convenient for plan members to visit their doctor. It is a convenient and affordable option for a variety of medical services, including General Medical, Dermatology and Behavioral Health. Team members can access quality healthcare from the comfort of home, during their lunch break, or while traveling 24/7/365. They can even get a prescription sent to their local pharmacy, when medically necessary.

We also joined Transitions Benefit Group, a firm that provides support and education for team members and their families who are considering joining Medicare as they approach age 65 as well as any other type of benefit changes that team members and their families may be going through (i.e., spouse changing jobs and inquiring about COBRA, dependent children aging out of their parent’s medical plan, etc.). This is a no cost benefit for all team members.

Finally, and I think most important, DCA was able to offer the medical benefit plan with all these improvements, to team members at no increased team member contribution for 2021. This is the second time in the past six years that we were able to offer the medical plan at no additional cost to team members. I am proud of our Payroll and Human Resources team who worked so hard last year to expand benefits, maintain team member contributions, and help with thousands of requests that were brought on by the economic situation in 2020. We look forward to serving all our team members again in 2021 and beyond.

Steve Duval Vice President, Human Resources Ally since 2014 ISSUE 7 / APRIL 2021

for Thirty Stories to Celebrate Thirty Years Dental Care Alliance celebrates thirty years of excellence in dentistry in 2021. It is an important milestone in our legacy of success, particularly given where it falls in the grand scheme of history. The once-in-a-lifetime pandemic and myriad other challenges of 2020 might have sidelined another team, but not DCA. We are allies and we are stronger than ever. Cornerstone to our history of excellence in dentistry the power and fortitude of our people. Individuals and teams going above and beyond, living the U-SMILE values, and creating healthy smiles for life. Given that we are celebrating 30 years, what better way to explain who we are and what we believe in than to share the stories of our team members from across the DCA family. In the spirit of the sports documentary series 30 for 30, this special 30th Anniversary Edition of the Insider takes a moment to reflect on our history and look ahead to our future. In case you are not familiar, the widely acclaimed, award winning series was created by ESPN as part of its 30th anniversary celebration, to look back at notable sports happenings that occurred from 1979 – 2009. The stories told include the shocking trade of Wayne Gretzky in 1988, the Baltimore Colts’ nighttime move in 1984, Reggie Miller’s rivalry with the New York Knicks, a profile of George Steinbrenner and his family business, and a look at Michael Jordan’s attempt at a baseball career. While you may find the stories throughout the 30 for 30 Insider slightly different, the underlying themes are in fact quite similar. Highlighting interesting people demonstrating excellence and passion in their chosen craft. With the 30th Anniversary edition of the Insider, we celebrate our great organization and the superlative individuals who make it up. Thank you for all the ways that you contribute, yesterday, today, and tomorrow.

ISSUE 7 / APRIL 2021

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Dr. Steven Matzkin DCA Founder Ally since 1991

Where It All Began Dr. Matzkin’s philosophy of patient-centric care set DCA apart from all the rest.

DCA INSIDER THE ANNIVERSARY ISSUE

A native of Chicago, Dr. Steven Matzkin attended Northwestern University Dental School in 1984. Following graduation, he went to work for a dentist in the Detroit area and became employed by one of the first group practices in the country. In 1986, Dr. Matzkin began to develop a business model for efficiency in dental offices. His primary goal was to help dentists remove administrative distractions so they could provide better care for patients. After building a successful business in Michigan, he wanted to expand the model to other states – so he joined forces with Mitch Olan and moved to Sarasota, Florida to form DCA. In the years that followed, other DSOs began pushing practices into a cookie cutter model. Meanwhile, DCA wanted to create models that were tailored to each unique office. “The dental industry is different from retail,” says Dr. Matzkin. “Other companies were only focused on the money. But I always felt that if you follow the correct model, you won’t have to worry about the money. It will just be there.” Dr. Matzkin’s philosophy of patient-centric care set DCA apart from all the rest. As business grew, DCA began beating their numbers on Wall Street

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Our original concept was patient care, and that has stayed the same throughout the history of the company. Even during the tough times, we stuck to our guns. We did what we said we were going to do.” on a quarterly basis. However, as DSOs became more prevalent in the industry, money-hungry companies gave the entire movement a less-thandesirable reputation. So, in 1999, DCA merged with Gentle Dental to form Interdent in an effort to avoid going under. “In the end, it wasn’t a good fit,” says Dr. Matzkin. “We just had completely different philosophies.” Determined to save DCA, Dr. Matzkin risked it all – and under tremendous pressure, he raised enough money to buy the company back. “When I look back on my career at DCA, my two favorite memories are taking the company public, then being able to buy us back,” says Dr. Matzkin. Since that pivotal buyback, DCA has witnessed phenomenal growth and success. “What I’ve seen is absolutely incredible. We have a low turnover rate because we treat people like family. We’ve even had doctors who worked into their 80s because they didn’t have the stress that so many dentists experience.” Dr. Matzkin attributes the success of DCA to uncompromising vision. “Our original concept was patient care, and that has stayed the same throughout the history of the company. Even during the tough times, we stuck to our guns. We did what we said we were going to do.”

Top: Dr. Matzkin at the DCA office circa 1999. Bottom: Dr. Matzkin pictured with Mitch Olan.

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...we treat people like family. We’ve even had doctors who worked into their 80s because they didn’t have the stress that so many dentists experience.”

ISSUE 7 / APRIL 2021

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Dr. Caryn Davis General Dentist | Advanced Dental Care Ally since 2019

Giving Back to Our Own in Challenging Times When a former employee reached out to Dr. Caryn Davis for help, she didn’t think twice. Dr. Davis has been practicing at Advanced Dental Care in Englewood, Florida since 2019 – after an 8-month sabbatical. Last October, she reconnected with a former employee, Michelle. “Many years had passed since we saw each other regularly,” says Dr. Davis. “But Michelle and I had always been close. She worked with me for four years and we had a positive relationship. We vacationed together a lot. My daughters were even in her wedding. Of course, when she had kids, we didn’t spend as much time together,” she continues. “You know how it goes. Life just gets busy.” So when Dr. Davis heard from Michelle out of the blue, she knew something was wrong. As it turns out, one of Michelle’s sons had become addicted to drugs and had been stealing from her. To get

DCA INSIDER THE ANNIVERSARY ISSUE

away for a bit, Michelle checked into a hotel. During her stay, she had a stroke. Michelle’s injuries were extensive, and required a two-month hospital stay. When she was released to go home, Michelle returned to discover that her son had destroyed her house and sold most of her belongings. Devastated, she was forced to sell her home and start over. “The next day, I got in my car and drove down to see her,” says Dr. Davis. “I didn’t even recognize her. “She’s only in her 50s, but she looked much older. Now, she’s partially blind. She can’t drive. It’s heartbreaking. When I was visiting, her youngest son, who is 15, asked me if I could help. He said, ‘I just want my mom back.’” Dr. Davis immediately reached out to Dr. Dennis Corona at Advanced Dental Care in Sarasota and asked if she could pay for Michelle to have her dental treatment completed.

Amazingly, they offered to perform the treatment for free. Michelle’s treatment is currently underway, and the Advanced Dental Care team will be placing five implants to restore her smile. Dr. Davis’ oldest daughter, who is a cosmetologist, even did Michelle’s hair and makeup to help her feel more like herself again. “Michelle still has a long road to recovery,” says Dr. Davis. “She’s going to need more work done, including an eye lift to improve her vision. But we’re definitely on the right track now.”

Dr. Caryn Davis and her patient Michelle

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“

They told me that I could do more than just fight...They thought I’d be a good candidate for whatever I chose.”

Tony Belton Regional Manager Ally since 2018

A Kaleidoscope of Talent Tony Belton joined the military at age 19, during the Persian Gulf War. After taking the aptitude test, Tony was encouraged to pursue something in the medical or dental field. “They told me that I could do more than just fight,” says Tony. “They thought I’d be a good candidate for whatever I chose.” So, Tony became a dental assistant and eventually began managing practices. When he got out of the military, Tony didn’t know if he wanted to stay in dentistry. “I actually thought I wanted to be an attorney,” says Tony. But upon return to civilian life, he took a job as a lab tech. “One day, the office was short of an assistant,” he says. “So I worked as one that day.” Throughout his years there, Tony was promoted to treatment planning coordinator, then office manager.

“Eventually, I left the clinic and became a full-time dental director at Corinthian Colleges.” “One day, a visitor came in and told me he might have an opportunity for me,” Tony recalls. “At that point, I went back to managing practices, and I eventually began working with DSOs.” Today, Tony manages 14 DCA practices in the southwest Florida region. Tony is also a board member of the Diversity and Inclusion Council. “As a POC, it’s been a groundbreaking experience,” says Tony. “I’m trying to create fairness and equal opportunity to recruit talent and retain them. People need representation. I’m hopeful that more opportunities will arise for POC at DCA.” Even though dental management is his passion, Tony is far from being a one-trick pony. When he first moved

to Florida, he obtained his real estate license so he could work with his wife on the weekends. He also has a doctorate in Christian psychology, and can often be found performing standup comedy routines. Tony lives in Florida with his wife of 16 years and four of his nine children. In his spare time, you can find Tony giving back to his community in a variety of ways, including coaching football and helping the homeless.

Tony pictured above with with his family here in Florida, where he lives with his wife of 16 years and four of his nine children.

ISSUE 7 / APRIL 2021

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Beth VanIderstine PSR SWAT Team Ally since 2020

Putting Patients First The COVID pandemic has presented certain challenges for all of us, especially when it comes to getting patients back on our schedules. As part of the PSR SWAT Team, Beth VanIderstine works with our Georgia allies, helping them bring patients safely back to their offices. “Working remotely has been a remarkable experience,” says Beth. “I have the opportunity to talk with people from all over. What I’ve found is that most people are just scared right now. It gives me a chance to know more about them and share in their fears. Excellent customer service is just understanding that our patients are people. And we should treat them as such.” Beth truly goes above and beyond, sometimes calling patients just to touch base with them. After noticing that one man had a particularly extensive medical history, she phoned him just to check in. Upon receiving her call, he said, “I’ve had five surgeries this

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year, and not one person has called to check on me. This means so much.” It’s this kind of caring and compassionate mindset that sets DCA apart. After living in Colorado and Michigan, Beth eventually moved back home to Massachusetts and adopted her two grandchildren. She credits DCA for their flexibility during life’s transitional moments. “I appreciate that DCA meets the unique needs of my family. No matter what I’ve gone through, there has always been room for growth and change. DCA plays to my strengths – they’ve given me several opportunities in which I can utilize my talents and hone my skills.” Beth approaches every day with the understanding that little things matter. “We forget to look at the big picture sometimes,” she says. “The things we do have a large impact, and the ripple effect goes much further than we think.”

I appreciate that DCA meets the unique needs of my family. No matter what I’ve gone through, there has always been room for growth and change. DCA plays to my strengths – they’ve given me several opportunities in which I can utilize my talents and hone my skills.”

DCA INSIDER THE ANNIVERSARY ISSUE

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Story 05

Mike Cole Vice President, Insurance Plan Management Ally since 1999

Team = Family Mike Cole first met Dr. Steven Matzkin and Mitch Olan back in 1992, when he called on them to recruit for their offices. By 1999, he had joined the DCA team as insurance manager, and is now vice president of insurance plan management. Mike was instrumental in rolling out DentRite – making DCA one of the very first DSOs to offer this type of program. “Without my team, I wouldn’t have achieved anything,” says Mike. “I love the people I work with. There’s a certain warmth to them that you just can’t fake. They’re so genuine.” When people join Mike’s team, they stay on board. During the time he’s been at DCA, only two of his team members have left. “I pride myself on the team we’ve assembled over the past decade,” Mike stated. “I see all of their successes, and I try to acknowledge those victories on a regular basis. I’m really proud of my staff, and I try to treat people the way I want to be treated.” Looking back on the changes that DCA has endured over the years, Mike recalls, “When Dr. Matzkin bought us back after the Interdent merger, we all went to the Bahamas. It was such a victory! Here was this huge conglomerate, and we were the little engine that

“

I pride myself on the team we’ve assembled over the past decade. I see all of their successes, and I try to acknowledge those victories on a regular basis. I’m really proud of my staff, and I try to treat people the way I want to be treated.”

could. During that trip, we put our values and mission in place. I refer to it as our rebirth. Since that time, we’ve grown from 75 offices to what we are today.” Mike believes that DCA has played a significant role in his own professional and personal development. “My values and ethics have married with DCA and allowed me to grow as an individual,” he says. When Mike isn’t working, he loves spending time with his wife of 27 years. He also enjoys managing his kids’ sports teams and working the scoreboard at his daughter’s softball games. “DCA has been my family for so long, it’s all my kids have ever known.”

Top: The Cole family at Superbowl LV in Tampa and with their family pets during the holidays. Bottom: Mike Cole pictured with Debbi Rassel at a DCA Career Fair.

ISSUE 7 / APRIL 2021

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Wendy Steward Hygiene Manager Konikoff Dental Associates Ally since 1993

30 Years at Hampton Roads

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I appreciate DCA’s willingness to invest in us. Since becoming an ally, there are so many more things we’re able to provide for our patients, such as advanced technology in all locations.

endy Steward serves as a Hygiene Coach at Konikoff Dental – a tight-knit group of offices in southeastern Virginia. Over the past several years, she has helped facilitate growth as the practice multiplied to 12 locations spanning the Hampton Roads area. Working one-on-one with hygienists across nine locations, Wendy and her co-Coach, Tara Pannell, encourage their team to grow and perfect their craft as the industry evolves. “People measure success in different ways. But in our profession, caring for patients as you would care for your own family – that’s real success,” says Wendy. Konikoff Dental joined DCA about four years ago. “I appreciate DCA’s willingness to invest in us,” says Wendy. “Since becoming an ally, there are so many more things we’re able to provide for our patients, such as advanced technology in all locations. We were a well-oiled machine before we joined DCA, but they’ve brought us to the next level. It’s been so nice to not have any roadblocks when it comes to bettering our practice.” Working with DCA has helped Wendy hone her skills and set their practice apart from others in the region. “We are constantly learning, which is essential in an industry that is always changing. DCA helps us avoid complacency and focus on improving our careers. Even in the midst of the COVID pandemic, they helped us maximize downtime by providing opportunities for free CE.” “Our hygienists see the opportunities that DCA

DCA INSIDER THE ANNIVERSARY ISSUE

provides,” says Wendy. “Last fall, we had a hands-on laser training course. It was so encouraging to see a room full of hygienists, sitting there with lasers, working on pig jaws. They were so excited to learn about new technology. DCA makes it possible to learn new skills that you can take with you wherever you go.” Wendy credits her team’s success to the support of her Regional Managers, Esther Leiva and Leslie DeSerfino, as well as her Regional Vice President, Nicole Lipp, and her Hygiene Director, Glory Grossbard. “I would never be able to do this job by myself,” says Wendy. “The DCA team trusts us to make decisions. They’ve shown a lot of confidence in us.” After spending over 30 years in the Virginia Beach area, Wendy doesn’t plan on leaving anytime soon. She looks forward to continuing her work with DCA and elevating her team on the road to success.

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Andrea Muhammed

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Office Manager | Gentle Dental of St. Clair Shores Ally since 2020

A Servant Heart Andrea Muhammed joined the DCA family in a very challenging time - after the reopening following COVID-19 in October of 2020. She absolutely loves working at Gentle Dental of St Clair Shores office. “The staff at Shores are amazing. They welcomed me from day one and it was clear to see that they are hard workers and incredibly supportive,” Andrea shared. “I feel so fortunate to be part of the team. I could not have picked a more talented, kind, and caring group of individuals to work with each day.” Being an ally at DCA has helped to bring out the absolute best in Andrea on her journey in dentistry. As she joined the organization, she was heartened to find focused training courses, a wonderful support system and team, and an incredible regional manager in Cheryl Wellman. “DCA is designed to make sure that you achieve your goals. I see growth in myself in areas of understanding dental clearly and managing a practice to succeed,” Andrea commented. “I see working for DCA not just a journey in my life but a career with opportunity to grow. In her free time outside of the office, Andrea volunteers with her church food drive, which partners with Forgotten Harvest to feed the community. The volunteers feed over 300 families monthly. She also volunteers with the outreach ministry, which helps to clothe and feed three different men’s and women’s shelters.

Once a year, she participates in the church’s community day where they serve the families in the area by giving away important services and gifts to a thousand people. At this community day event, they have a medical table where Andrea and her husband provide free health and dental screenings. They give away over 200 dental kits which include toothbrushes, floss, and toothpaste to the families in the community. She explains the importance of seeing a dentist on a regular basis and the risk of not seeing a dentist along with providing pictures and pamphlets. They also have a dental agreement for the children to promise that they will brush twice a day and floss that is signed on site as well. The materials and information provided for community day is fully funded by Andrea and her husband. “My heart’s desire is to change the lives of as many people as we can by promoting good healthy habits,” stated Andrea. “I’m excited about my future at DCA, and look forward to becoming a long-time ally. My goal is to become a

regional manager myself one day.” Andrea encourages the team to give back whenever possible. One of her favorite DCA memories was when the Shores office helped a special education teacher at a local neighborhood school by providing her with 10 hygiene kits for special needs students. It was incredible to see the team so passionate about helping these young people. Providing them with the information and tools necessary to take care of their own dental health was empowering to the team and brought them even closer together. Andrea is an ally that demonstrates servant leadership both in and outside the office. We are fortunate that she is part of the DCA family, and look forward to continuing to watch her grow. Andrea pictured left volunteering in her community, serving families wile promiting the importance of dental health. ISSUE 7 / APRIL 2021

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Story 08

Dr. Don Gallo Chief Clinical Officer Ally since 2011

A Clinical Leader Like No Other

DCA INSIDER THE ANNIVERSARY ISSUE

Dr. Don Gallo joined DCA in 2012 during one of the largest affiliations in the company’s history. At that time, the size of the business doubled from about 65 offices to 120. Today, he serves as Chief Clinical Officer. When asked about the growth of DCA, Dr. Gallo attributes the success to a strong, unwavering foundation. “Even though the company has grown rapidly, core principles still remain the same,” he says. “We are doctor-centric, more so than other DSOs. We’re also focused on the patient experience. Not only do we understand that our clients are the offices, but we also exist as a support system for the patients.” DCA isn’t a company that shies away from change. On the contrary, they are dedicated to implementing new approaches in an industry that is constantly evolving. “As we’ve grown, the influx of predictive analysis has been a huge advantage,” says Dr. Gallo. “So many people that we’ve brought into middle and senior management have taken the business to the next level.” DCA gives individuals a tremendous opportunity for advancement. “We’ve done an excellent job of developing talent within the company,” he continues. The dental industry is on track to witness exponential consolidation of the marketplace. Dr. Gallo believes that DCA is in a good position to handle that. “I see DCA as a platform business,” he says. “We’re good at acquiring different practices. That’s what makes us unique. Everyone doesn’t have to fit the same mold. We do a pretty good job of acclimating our affiliations.” Dr. Gallo looks forward to many more years of success within the company. “What I’ve really enjoyed is working with my clinical director and field operators,” he says. “It’s been very rewarding. I work with a terrific group of people.”

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Story 09

Denise Arechavaleta Director, Service Excellence Ally since 2003

Unleashing My Potential Denise Arechavaleta joined Towncare Dental in 2003 at the front desk and quickly advanced to the role of office manager at the Pinecrest office in 2004. The following year she was promoted to the support team, where she took on a new challenge in the IT department. Denise was promoted to Practice Systems Manager in 2006, and served in that role until Towncare affiliated with Dental Care Alliance in 2013. After that, she worked on the IT Ops team, supporting the field by maintaining the QSI and Denticon practice management systems, providing systems and operational training, and completing system conversions. Subsequently, she was promoted into the Director, Service Excellence role, and she now works with the practices to develop and document standard processes, train on problem-solving skills and tools, and help drive operational improvements. She is invaluable to the DCA family. A career with DCA has been a great learning opportunity for Denise Arechavaleta. The opportunity

to collaborate with a variety of thought leaders in various roles throughout the organization has given her the chance to learn from many different perspectives and to achieve more than she believes she would have done alone. She is confident that her time at DCA has truly allowed her to appreciate the insights and opinions of others, especially when they don’t exactly match with hers. Denise is also proud of her role in creating trust in the insights and analytics that we have recently been able to leverage – thanks to the talents of Matt, Jake, and the Analytics team. She thinks that this is a differentiator and will set us apart as leaders empowered with the intelligence that makes our business run. Denise is a people person, and is proud to have had the opportunity to serve in both patient- and practiceserving roles. She looks forward to seeing her colleagues and working face-to-face again! Even in the midst of the COVID pandemic, she is encouraged to see how well we have done as a team to rise above all of the challenges of the past year. “It shows

you that nothing can keep this team down,” she adds. Outside the office, Denise and her family enjoy spending time outdoors, particularly kayaking and hiking through the Everglades. She resides in Miami with her fiancé James, who is the Chief of Fire and Aviation Program for the South Florida National Parks, her 8-year old daughter Olivia, their American Bulldog Roxy, and 2 cats Bo and Ninja. Denise is passionate about fitness and finds innovative ways to work out from home – another positive outcome from COVID restrictions. When asked what she loves most about being a DCA ally, Denise says this, “I love working with the office teams to help improve and standardize operations, so they can better focus on patient care. I get satisfaction knowing that I have been able to help and support them, and they have benefitted partnering with me to improve their days.” Denise, we are grateful for you and all of your contributions over the last 18 years. Thank you for being an ally. ISSUE 7 / APRIL 2021

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Dr. Gene Witkin Clinical Director, Georgia Ally since 2000

When You Take Care of the People, the Rest Falls Into Place Dr. Witkin’s journey with DCA began as a tiny, unlikely seed in 1997. He was already involved with another then fledgling DSO, Valley Forge Dental Associates, but found himself at a dinner one night with Mitch Olan. Although his path was divergent, he knew that he really liked Mitch, and roughly every five years or so, the two would end up meeting for dinner again. Valley Forge fell apart which was not uncommon in the early days of DSOs. He dearly loved the Valley Forge group and still considers most of them friends, including Dr. Craig Abramowitz. He left and by the latter part of 2001, was working on developing his own organization, what would become Imagix Dental. The name Imagix was developed by a think tank hired by Goldman Sachs and was employed for marketing purposes. It grew rapidly to 10 practices but halted when the recession hit in the latter part of the first decade of the 2000s. Still the practice continued to do well. In 2013 the DSO market was heating up again in a big way and they all

DCA INSIDER THE ANNIVERSARY ISSUE

came knocking on the Imagix door. Dr. Witkin and team took these meetings but had no plans to do any sort of transition. Then he met again with Mitch Olan, along with Dave Nichols and Kevin Webb. The moment he knew Imagix would align with DCA was one evening at Christmas time when he was standing in Times Square on a call with Kevin Webb. It struck him that he was talking to a teammate as opposed to a colleague.

He grew up playing team sports and has always believed in positive synergies. Imagix found that with DCA.In January of 2015, Imagix Dental became part of DCA, along with the legacy DCA offices that were already situated in Atlanta. “As Dental Directors, we are uniquely positioned to work across the breadth and depth of the organization,” reflected Dr. Witkin. “I have always believed that it always boils down to people. In dental offices if you take care of people, the rest will fall in to place.” He believes this holds true in the larger organization as well. Dr. Witkin finds it satisfying to watch a group come together to work toward a common goal. That resonated in volumes last year and still today with the pandemic. As life altering as it has been, he believes it has been a remarkable achievement with so many people pulling together. With DCA my team has grown from small, to midsize, to large. It is allowing me to focus more on projects that will hopefully yield significantly positive results for us both locally and nationally. Opportunities arise because of growth and abilities of diverse talents that can enable us to capitalize on them. We are working on a couple of projects right now that have great promise and can be very impactful. Stay tuned! I look so forward to our continued growth, internally and externally. Sometimes days pass slowly but years pass quickly. It has really been a very short tenure but is is marked with remarkable growth. When asked about his history with DCA and favorite memory, he could not choose just one. For Dr. Witkin, it always comes back to people. Some of the moments that have

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mattered most to him are…“talking football with Dr. Steve Price--who can forget the halftime speech he gave at one meeting! talking cycling with Craig Murray, getting to know Steve Duvall hanging out in the pool at Caesar’s Palace, watching the ever-entertaining Dr. Rob Friedman’s DASH presentation steaming up on staffing matters with Dr. Alex Cardounel and talking about the U!, eating Colombian food with Eduardo Laventman in a non-descript strip mall in Miami trying to corral some of Dr. Matt Freedman’s energy, looking for any sign of aging from Dave Quigley and losing all our money at the craps table in Las Vegas, the advent of the DCA COVID beards’, looking forward to cashing in on James Nick’s promise of a Packers ticket in Green Bay, comparing notes with Drs. Edan and Mitch Blumenthal, learning the ways of a brew master from Dale Hockel, watching Mike Cole go toe-to-toe with the insurance companies, collaborating with Dave Pegg and Grady Wilson of M&A, and scores of other people and examples that were too numerous to list here...,” said Dr. Witkin. He appreciates all their efforts and friendships. When he’s not working, Dr. Witkin loves all things sports but mostly watching college football and cycling. He’s a history buff and enjoys reading and travel. Memorable trips include the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, Lake Placid, Normandy, and Gettysburg. He is a family man and enjoys theatre, movies, and being with family and friends. “For me the sun rises and sets on my family. I have been married to Tiffany for more than 31 years,” shared Dr. Witkin. “We have two tremendously talented and successful daughters, Hannah and Jesse.”

Attracting Top Talent in Georgia Atlanta has once again become a battleground for dental talent with all the major DSOs and several smaller organizations in the city and surrounding areas. The issue is not just that the other organizations are there, but that a great number of brand new wellappointed and equipped offices are springing up all over. For quite a while Imagix had significant trouble attracting new providers that were the quality of which they were looking. A great number of dentists were migrating from office to office and from organization to organization in the Atlanta market. They had not been successful in retaining new graduates in the past. Imagix focused on creating a relationship with Georgia Regents University (GRU, sometimes known as Medical College of Georgia), when Dr. Witkin learned that several of the professors there were former classmates of his at Emory University. He attended a few job fairs and vendor shows and began creating some relationships with students. During the spring break of their junior year, a handful of students spent the week with Dr. Witkin going to different offices. They proved to be very inquisitive and

BRITTANY LEWIS, DMD Imagix Dental of Roswell/Alpharetta

engaged and it became evident that avoiding graduating students was something that Imagix would quickly reverse. Imagix now has four recent grads in their first year of practice, and they are excelling. From GRU Imagix welcomed Dr. Nasim Doroudgar, Dr. Britney Lewis, and Kelli Zudekoff; and, from Alabama, Dr. Joseph Newman. “During the height of the pandemic, we did a series of Zoom meetings with all the specialties and a couple of our long time GPs to jump start their careers, to answer any questions, and help them feel at ease,” stated Dr. Witkin. “They are Invisalign-trained, and Dr. Lewis has gone on to be certified by the American Academy of Facial Esthetics. We are looking forward to supporting her down that road, as an adjunct to the services she already provides for her patients,” he added. The new doctors have proven Imagix’s past avoidance of new grads completely wrong. The new doctors are thriving and have also helped to introduce Imagix to members of GRU’s current senior class. Dr. Witkin and the team look forward to continuing to build the relationship with the new classes of graduates at GRU and beyond!

JOSEPH NEWMAN, DMD Hickory Flat Dental

KELLI ZUDEKOFF, DMD Imagix Dental of Suwanee

NASIM DOROUDGAR, DMD Imagix Dental of Alpharetta

Ally since 2020

ISSUE 7 / APRIL 2021

Stay Connected With D.I.C.E. (Dental Care Alliance’s Information Center for All Employees) provides the most up-to-date information on our organization, affiliated practices, and our support departments. The latest operational dashboards, department-specific information on who to contact when you need assistance, and important SOPs and information for safely serving smiles. All current employees with an email address on file in Kronos have access to D.I.C.E. using any internet browser.

Find us online at dice.dentalcarealliance.com

Find department-specific pages on D.I.C.E., and much more. • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Analytic Dashboards Benefits Corner COVID-19 Guidance + Support Line Clinical + Operational Leadership Clinical Connect + Equipment/ Supply Barter Board DCA CARES Program DCA Insider Archives Facilities Help Reopening Playbook + SOPs Respiratory Protection Program Revenue Cycle A/R + OTC Initiatives Standard Operating Procedures Safe Smiles Initiative FAQs + Contact Information for Support Departments

Enter your DCA or personal email address on file in Kronos to get started! Email dice@dentalcarealliance.com for assistance or suggestions

DCA INSIDER THE ANNIVERSARY ISSUE

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Cindy Sakowski

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Hygienist | Dental Arts of South Jersey Ally since 1991

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I truly enjoy connecting with my patients, and helping them figure out their unique needs. In addition to supporting their oral health, I want to make sure they stay on track with their overall wellness.”

40 Years of Compassionate Care C

ynthia Sakowski has been a hygienist for 40 years. In 1991, she joined the team at Dental Arts of South Jersey, working under Dr. Jack Piermatti. Eventually, he sold the practice to Garden State Dental, an ally of DCA. Today, their office location offers comprehensive treatments in general dentistry, periodontics, prosthodontics, and oral surgery. Over the years, Cynthia’s philosophy of care has earned the trust and respect of patients and colleagues alike. “Every day when I go into work, I think about something one of our office managers, Barbara Lutz, used to say”, remarks Cynthia. “‘Patients don’t really care how much you know until you show how much you care.’ I truly enjoy connecting with my patients, and helping them figure out their unique needs. In addition to supporting their oral health, I want to make sure they stay on track with their overall wellness.” In a fast-paced office, Cynthia faces daily challenges. “I think one of the most difficult things is trying to fit everything into the timeframe we’re given. When you

have talkative patients, it can be enjoyable, but tough to stay on track.” She says that DCA’s contributions have played a major role in improving that issue. “Our practice just installed a digital X-ray program. Throughout our partnership with DCA, they’ve really kept up with technology and provided us with the tools we need for success. They also offer webinars for continuing education, which is so helpful.” Cynthia appreciates the many ways the company gives back to the community. She recalls, “We collected Halloween candy for the troops, which is such a neat thing to do. It was inspiring to see how many people participated.” She is excited to see how the company continues to grow and give in the future. When she’s not at the office, Cynthia enjoys traveling and spending time with her husband, daughter, and her brand-new grandson. She also has a passion for genealogy work, and has built an impressive collection of her family’s history. ISSUE 7 / APRIL 2021

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Justine Antonatos Central Billing Office Manager Family Dental Group Ally since 1982

A New York State of Mind J

ustine Antonatos has worked for Family Dental Group for over 38 years. Her practice became affiliated with DCA during the merger with NEDM in 2016. She currently serves as the central billing office manager, overseeing eight offices in New York – and will soon be helping the Connecticut and Massachusetts areas as well. Justine says that DCA has helped her grow personally as well as professionally. “I didn’t know anything about the world when I came here, it was my first job! “I’ve been here so long that I have peace of mind about change. We don’t usually know what will be coming down the road in ten years. I hope that maybe I give comfort to my teammates when it comes to trying new things. DCA has helped me grow in that way. Bring on the change!” “I like the fact that DCA gives our employees the opportunity for growth,” she added. “I believe we’ll continue to grow – and I hope that I keep growing professionally and personally as well. I’m excited to watch New York strive to become the best practices.” Justine married her high school sweetheart, Jimmy. They have two daughters, two grandchildren, and another grandbaby on the way. When she’s not working, she loves crocheting, reading, and being on the beach whenever she can. She has recently found a way to give back to her community by trapping and neutering feral cats in her neighborhood.

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“

l like the fact that DCA gives our employees the opportunity for growth. I think we’ll continue to grow – and I hope that I keep growing professionally and personally as well. I’m excited to watch New York strive to become the best practices.”

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Dr. Marvin Becker

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Clinical Director, Retired Ally since 1997

A Lifetime of Healthy Smiles It is with tremendous pride that we honor the prestigious career and contributions of Dr. Marvin Becker. After an impressive career spanning more than six decades, he recently announced his retirement from serving at Dental Care Alliance. He joined us in 1997 as a Dental Director and made many lasting contributions to our organization and the dental industry. He had an affinity for helping others to grow and found joy in educating young people with an interest in dentistry. Dr. Becker has 35 years of experience as a pediatric dentist and 20 years of experience teaching at both the Georgetown University School of Dentistry and the Children’s Hospital Residency Program. He worked tirelessly throughout his career to serve medically- and emotionally-compromised patients. “Dr Becker was the consummate professional who was a wellrespected leader and mentor,” commented Mitch Olan, Executive Chairman of the Board. “He built a strong, dedicated team of providers who under his direction consistently grew their region for over 25 years.” In 2002, Dr. Becker’s experience combined with a passion for the dental profession, led to launch the first location of Dental Assistant

Training School of Maryland and Virginia in 2002. Today there are a total of eight schools across the region. DATS also functions as the dental assistant teaching facility for several community colleges in Maryland including Baltimore, Cecil, Essex, and Hartford counties. One of the contributing factors to the nationwide shortage of dental assistants is the lack of training programs. The biggest reward for Dr. Becker is knowing that they have helped to change someone’s life. It is so gratifying to help people at a critical time in their life to jump start a new career. “After practicing dentistry for 35 years and as an educator for over 20 years I get tremendous joy in helping people find their way to a successful future in a field that I love,” said Dr. Becker. “Nothing makes me happier than celebrating DATS graduates getting their first new job as a dental assistant.” Dr. Becker had a lifelong love for learning. In 1961, he graduated from Pennsylvania Military College, and four years later earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from University of Maryland’s School of Dentistry. He completed his residency at Children’s Hospital of Pennsylvania in 1967. After a year of training at Kingsbury Institute in Washington, D.C., he served as a tutor for underprivileged children in the inner city. “Wonderful man, Dr. Becker. If you look up the word “mensch” (Yiddish for a man of honor and integrity) in the dictionary, you will find a picture of Marvin Becker,” reflected Dr. Barry Lyon, Dental Director in DCA’s Maryland pedo and ortho offices. “He

taught me a lot about being a dental director. Not just the ins and outs of the job, but what the demeanor of someone in that role should be. I could not have had a better role model.” Dr. Becker retired in January of 2021. Dr. Becker was beloved by the entire organization throughout his tenure at DCA. We are grateful for his many contributions to dentistry and wish him continued happiness and health in his retirement.

From top: Dr. Becker with former DCA RM Joyce Sours and Dr. Barry Lyon. Dr. Becker pictured with some of his students at DATS - Dental Assistant Training Schools of Maryland and Virginia.

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Dr. Aimee Martinez Pediatric Dentist Main Street Children’s Dentistry Ally since 2000

Sophia Mesa Aspiring Dentist Future Ally

Inspiring the Next Generation of Dentists Sophia Mesa has dreamed of becoming a dentist for years. And by, “for years,” we mean two. This adorable four year old absolutely loves going to the dentist and seeing her friend, Dr. Aimee Martinez. She first visited the Main Street Children’s Dentistry office at Palmetto Hospital 2 years ago. Sophia’s mom, Jeleany Mesa, is a Payroll Specialist in DCA’s Support Center. Sophia was inspired to become a dentist after her first visit to the dentist’s office and meeting Dr. Aimee Martinez. Dr. Martinez has been proudly serving the families of Hialeah for 21 years. She received her degree from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in Boston in 1998. She then completed her Pediatric Specialty training at the University of Missouri/Children’s Mercy Hospital in Kansas City. After completing her training, she returned home to Miami and has been in practice since 2000 with the same office. She loves the freedom that a partnership with DCA

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brings, which allows her to focus on practicing dentistry and cultivating the patient relationship. Her favorite aspects of working with children are that they keep her on her toes, their lightheartedness, and the opportunity to create a positive dental experience that will last a lifetime. “You never know what the day will bring, but you almost always know it will be full of laughs and joy,” Dr. Martinez commented. “I so enjoy working with the families that visit us at the Palmetto office. I feel so fortunate to do what I love and make a difference in the lives of these young patients,” she added. She looks forward to our continued success and growth in the coming years. Outside the office, she enjoys spending time with her husband and teenage daughter hanging out with friends and watching movies. They are also “foodies” and love to cook and try new cuisines. Dr. Martinez has certainly made an impact on young Sophia, who loves getting dressed up in her doctor’s coat,

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Left: A personnel badge created by Sophia’s mom, Jelaney Mesa. Below: Sophia “assisting” Dr. Martinez during her brother’s appointment.

“

I want to be a dentist because I want to help people have a pretty smile, and I want to dress up and wear glasses like a dentist.” Sophia Mesa

“

I so enjoy working with the families that visit us at the Palmetto office. I feel so fortunate to do what I love and make a difference in the lives of these young patients.” Dr. Aimee Martinez

glasses, and dentistry play kit to practice her craft. Jeleany couldn’t be happier to have found such a caring and compassionate provider and role model for her daughter. “My favorite part about going to the dentist is because they check my teeth,” said Sophia. “I feel comfortable and happy when I’m in Dr. Martinez’s chair. She makes me want to be a dentist.” Sophia loves going to school, playing outside with her brother Jeremy, and learning more about becoming a dentist. In advance of her most recent appointment, her mom created a personnel badge and she was able to “assist” Dr. Martinez during her brother’s appointment. “I want to be a dentist because I want to help people have a pretty smile, and I want to dress up and wear glasses like a dentist,” shared Sophia. As we all know, impressing the importance of oral healthcare at a young age can’t be underestimated. The special relationship formed between Dr. Martinez and Sophia is wonderfully inspiring and something to be celebrated. Dr. Martinez has made a lasting difference in the thousands of patients like Sophia. And, just think of the number of patients that Sophia may be able to reach with her passion for dentistry at the age of 4. We couldn’t be more proud to have an ally like Dr. Martinez, who is inspiring the next generation of dentists. ISSUE 7 / APRIL 2021

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Erica Woolard Director, Marketing Operations Ally since 2010

Banding Together in Times of Need Erica Woolard has been with DCA for ten years, and was an original member of the call center. Since that time, she has worked in the CBO department, the purchasing department, and serves on the marketing team. Her career came full circle in 2019, when she began managing the very team that she joined a decade ago. Now, she’s merging the online scheduling and PSR SWAT teams to form the Centralized Schedule Maximization Team, which will focus on minimizing patient leakage in our offices while optimizing the office schedule to maximum capacity. In 2019, Erica’s family faced unforeseen circumstances. Her youngest daughter, Dakota – who was 15 at the time – was suddenly diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma. “It was completely unexpected,” she recalls. “Our lives were turned upside-down.” They immediately took Dakota to an evaluation at Johns Hopkins in Florida, then sought out a second opinion in Boston. Dakota, who played competitive soccer, put her life on hold and began chemotherapy. Her treatment started in July 2019, and by December of the same year, Dakota was 100% cancer-free! In January 2020, she was able to get back on the field for her first game of soccer since her diagnosis – and the entire family breathed a sigh of relief as they returned to some sense of normalcy. “The DCA team has always been like a family to me, and

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they were definitely there for us during that terrible time,” says Erica. “When I began my career at DCA, Dakota was very young. She grew up around my work family. They all knew her well.” Erica continues, “During these past 10 years, I have experienced many changes at DCA, but one thing that has always stayed the same is the support received from fellow allies. When one of us struggles there is always someone there to step in and help. We are a group of allies working together toward a shared goal while embracing individual strengths along the way and constantly pulling each other up. I look forward to continuing to being a part of the many successes to come for DCA in the future.”

Left: The Woolard family; Nick Dakota, Katilyn and Erica. Center: Dakota’s bell ringing ceremony celebrating the end of her treatments. Right: Dakota back on the field playing competitive soccer.

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Dr. Matt Haluch Clinical Director Massachusetts & Connecticut Ally since 2014

Welcoming a New Generation of Doctors Dr. Matt Haluch started to grow with Baystate Dental nearly 20 years ago. He affiliated with DCA by way of NEDM, when the two organizations merged in 2014. Dr. Haluch is currently a partner, equity owner, and Clinical Director with DCA in the Massachusetts and Connecticut regions. An avid proponent of education, Dr. Haluch leads a comprehensive orientation to help new dentists hone their craft. “Over the course of my career, I have really enjoyed training and mentoring general dentists to expand their abilities and clinical knowledge,” he says. “Our offices have always been equipped with the tools and education, but many times dentists need that ‘hands-on’ approach to get them through that learning curve. I learned a long time ago

that general dentistry is more fun and rewarding if you expand your skill set. Patients come to our office because we are able to provide that service. Oftentimes, I refer out for a root canal or an extraction and our patients turn to us and say, ‘Hey, Doc, I like you. Can’t you just do it? I don’t want to have to go all around finding someone I trust.’ Eventually, our doctors hear that enough that they get motivated to provide comprehensive dental care. It is also a growing concern in our society as well. People expect top notch service and efficiency all the time. DCA has allowed us to keep this up.” A labor of love, Dr. Haluch’s latest project involves starting a YouTube channel that will serve as a virtual classroom. Using overhead cameras and mics, he hopes to provide realtime interaction for his students.

Dr. Haluch believes you have to work hard to play hard, but he always strives to be present for his family. “One of the things that I hope to achieve in my future with DCA is balance in my life. I have four children – aged 8, 10, 16, and 24 – and I very much enjoy being a part of their lives. My wife also works with DCA as a hygiene trainer. We enjoy golfing, fishing, traveling, and spending time together in our RV.”

“

Over the course of my career, I have really enjoyed training and mentoring general dentists to expand their abilities and clinical knowledge...”

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Dr. Pedro Perez General Dentist Ally since 2013

It’s Never Too Late to Smile

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One thing that really lured me to DCA was the autonomy they provide to dentists. I want to treat dental disease. I want to help people and do real world dentistry. I have so much gratitude to Mitch, Dave, and Larry for the opportunity to join the organization.”

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CA ally, Dr. Pedro Perez, runs a successful dental practice in Stockbridge, Georgia. When he first took over that office, it was failing. But Dr. Perez has never been one to shy away from opportunity. So with determination, hard work, and a giant leap of faith, he transformed his practice, making it a staple in his southern community. Dr. Perez grew up in Jersey City, New Jersey. “When I was younger, I loved getting into trouble. I was a misdirected kid,” he says. But change was coming. “When I was 21, my uncle passed away. My aunt had traveled from Georgia to Jersey City for the funeral. My mom, who saw the path I was headed down, told me to pack my bags. She said, ‘Go down to Georgia, grow up, and be a man.’” So, just like that, he gave up city lights for long and winding country roads. “The change of atmosphere did a lot of good for me,” says Dr. Perez. “It took me a while to become acclimated. I had to learn on my own how to survive and make it. But I’d recommend a change of scenery to any young person trying to find their way, you know? Give yourself a chance to clear your mind

and figure out what you could be doing with your life.” As it turns out, dentistry is what Dr. Perez would be doing with his life. “I decided to go to school. I thought I’d become an engineer or maybe a psychologist. But things kept progressing. When someone mentioned dentistry to me, a light came on. I knew that’s what I wanted to do.” When Dr. Perez started considering DSOs, he found that DCA aligned with his own philosophies. “One thing that really lured me to DCA was the autonomy they provide to dentists. I want to treat dental disease. I want to help people and do real world dentistry. I have so much gratitude to Mitch, Dave, and Larry for the opportunity to join the organization.” When Dr. Perez isn’t practicing dentistry, he enjoys beekeeping. He’s currently a member of his local bee club, and tends to his apiaries during the honey season. As for advice? Dr. Perez has one thing to offer: “You only have so many opportunities that come your way in life. You have to be ready for them.”

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Sarah Fowler Regional Manager Ally since 2004

Changing Lives in the Nation’s Capital Sarah Fowler joined the Dental Associates of Northern Virginia family in 2004 as an assistant at our Alexandria office during her college summer break. She returned to dentistry in 2009 at our Skyline office as a treatment coordinator and began managing our Tysons office shortly thereafter. In 2011, DANV was acquired by North East Dental Management (NEDM) and Sarah was promoted to manage our largest office, Skyline. By 2015, seven additional offices in Connecticut joined the NEDM family, so Sarah split her time as Regional Manager between Connecticut and Virginia. NEDM joined the DCA family in 2016 and has been growing in Northern Virginia ever since! “The most rewarding part of my work is seeing the difference our teams make in improving our patients’ lives,” Sarah shared. “It never ceases to amaze me to see the remarkable talent, craftsmanship, clinical skill, and compassion of my doctors, hygienists, and dental assistants. They are truly artists, engineers, master technicians, trusted confidants, and caretakers to our patients, community, and each other.” She enjoys seeing the results of cosmetic transformations, but the most meaningful are the transformations within. Through Invisalign treatment, Dr. Stephen

Price taught his teenage patient with cerebral palsy to control his reflexes and become more self-sufficient by changing his own aligners. Dr. Lebonitte helped his patient who was a burn victim recover and restored her self-confidence with beautiful veneers. Dr. Ellenbogen provides services to a support group for battered women and Sarah will never forget the smile and tears at the patient’s smile reveal. It is inspiring to see patients’ transformations and how quality dental care changes their lives - dentistry is an integral part of their healing and recovery. Sarah shares that DCA has contributed in her journey by providing a pathway to continue learning and growing in the dental industry. Being a part of a dental support organization provides opportunities to connect and share best practices with a national network of dental allies; and exposure and access to industry leading resources, technology, and systems. Just last month, the MV5 region participated in Abby Frey’s ‘Empowering Today’s Dental Assistant’ workshop and it ignited positive change. Sarah and so many team members are living testaments that DCA creates an environment to unleash career potential and the ability to “rise through the ranks.”

In addition to professional growth, DCA provides pathways to contribute to company culture and Sarah has found collaborating on the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion Council very fulfilling. Over the last 17 years, she has made lasting memories with individuals who are more like family than colleagues. She shares, “The memories are countless… from attending my first DCA Summit in 2016 with Dr. Price, Dr. Lebonitte, Dr. Rotter, Dr. Greenspan, and Dr. Schecht in Las Vegas to hosting laser training Continued Education for our dynamic hygienists with Glory and fellow regional managers, Jessy Rose and Summer Cook last year. And celebrating all the milestones with our staff in between - birthdays, work anniversaries, doctor retirements, holiday parties at Joe Theismann’s with Dr. Fishman, Chili Cookoffs at Skyline, spring picnics, and even catching Dr. Butts with sweets! Vaccines have been underway in Virginia and the future is bright for 2021! Sarah shares that one of the most exciting aspects of her job is identifying talent within our organization, developing individuals, and seeing them flourish. She looks forward to growing our practices and building great teams in 2021! ISSUE 7 / APRIL 2021

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Igor Van Nikoloski Expanded Function Dental Assistant Wadas Dental Center of Munster Ally since 2018

A Dream Come True

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Every day we build memories with the patients, my associates at Munster, South Bend, Crown Point, and our doctors. The best moments are when we as a team are the reason for a happy, smiling patient visit.”

The story of Igor Van Nikoloski is one of strength and courage. He joined the team at Wadas Dental Center of Munster in January 2018. He works alongside Dr. Jasmine Abdullh and the other providers, to deliver high quality, comprehensive care to patients of all ages in the gentlest, most caring manner possible. Before joining the Munster office, Igor moved to the United States from Macedonia where he was a practicing dentist. He has a real passion for providing care for patients and was thrilled to find a practice to call home after this move to America. He was hopeful for the opportunity of a career and life that the US promises, so he and his wife made the decision to move more than 5,000 miles to northern Indiana in 2017. Igor is grateful for the camaraderie across the Wadas Dental offices and the DCA family. He enjoys moving between the offices and meeting other DCA teams. He is proud of the providers and staff at Wadas; and enjoys the teamwork, alignment, support he has experienced since joining DCA. Dr. Jason Cooper, who practices in Munster and is also a Dental Director for Indiana, encouraged Igor to learn about other branches of dentistry, such as implantology, which increased his motivation to expand his knowledge and interest for future development. He has already taken advantage of the course offerings available on the DCA Career Academy

DCA INSIDER THE ANNIVERSARY ISSUE

and looks forward to continuing to unleash his potential through other CE programs available through DCA. “Every day we build memories with the patients, my associates at Munster, South Bend, Crown Point, and our doctors,” shared Igor. “The best moments are when we as a team are the reason for a happy, smiling patient visit.” Igor and his wife, who is also a dental assistant, enjoy traveling, visiting new destinations, and exploring new cultures. They love the arts, going to the symphony, orchestra, concerts, and the theater. It goes without saying that they are eagerly looking forward to the day that they can explore their new home and these activities again. The chance for Igor and his wife to continue their passion of serving patients and providing dental healthcare is a dream that he hoped to achieve when moving to the US and has now come true.

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Story 20

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The partnership with DCA allows me to serve my country and work at the same time. I am comfortable when I have to go away, because I know DCA fully supports our practice.”

Dr. Gordon Chiu General Dentist | Towncare Dental Ally since 1996

Never Forget Dr. Gordon Chiu joined the Army Reserves in March 2002, just a few months after the 9/11 attacks. “I like a little bit of adventure,” he says. “And the Army needs a lot of dentists.” He has served in active duty in both Fort Stewart, Georgia and Iraq, and has been practicing dentistry at Towncare Dental since 1996. Combining his love for dentistry and his desire to serve his country, Dr. Chiu has truly found his calling by donating his time and skill to those in need. “My passion is dentistry on a volunteer basis,” states Dr. Chiu. “I volunteer dentistry in the Dominican Republic. People just need it, you know? I feel good about it; I don’t mind work. The Dominican Republic is really hot, there’s a lot of sweating,” he laughs. “It’s taking out teeth at a school, basically. But they don’t have anything, and I’ve got something that someone can use.” Dr. Chiu also recently signed on with Mercy Ships, an international charity that currently operates the largest non-governmental hospital ships in the world.

Dr. Chiu still drills with his fellow Army Reservists on some weekends, and goes away for a couple of weeks every summer. “I’m comfortable when I have to go away, because I know that DCA fully supports our practice,” he says. “The partnership with DCA allows me to serve my country and work at the same time.”

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A United Leadership Team The backgrounds and stories of how each of our Division Vice Presidents came to DCA are both quite similar and very different at the same time. Three of the five DVPs were promoted from within the organization, each beginning at the office level and growing in their careers at DCA. The others began in a slightly different capacity with the organization, and ultimately evolved into the DVP role. Joe Eckerle is an example of the latter. He began his journey with DCA as a consultant in 2018, building initial dashboards and creating business improvement systems. He was so impressed by DCA that he jumped at the chance to apply to fill the role of Virginia Wicke, the beloved, long-time DVP in the Northeast who planned to retire. “I am an ally for my team. A solid coach and champion for new ideas and suggestions to improve and innovate our business,” said Joe. Shawna Eury joined DCA 12 years ago as a PSR; and, climbed the ladder over her tenure with five 44

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promotions. She also knows the importance of a cohesive, unified team, and is an outspoken advocate for our team members across the family. Nicole Lipp started at Baystate Dental as a controller in 2010, before the NEDM affiliation, and had the good fortune to be mentored by Virginia Wicke and Dr. Craig Abramowitz. She was offered several opportunities to grow, and was promoted into positions leading integrations into Denticon, revenue cycle manager, regional manager, director for DCA. Eduardo Laventman became an ally in 2007, as an office manager. Throughout the years, he developed the necessary skills to move up the ladder, and he too was promoted into the regional manager, director, and now the DVP role for the Orthodontics division Craig Murray joined DCA in 2016, and has led the facilities and real estate strategy, de novo opportunities and execution, and most recently served as the executive point of contact for new affiliates. He was named DVP for the West division in December 2020. When asked what they most look forward to in DCA’s future, not surprisingly, we received the same answer across all five DVPs:

continuing to grow stronger together and becoming the largest and most successful dental support organization in the country. Shawna commented, “I look forward to our continued growth and allying with more practices.” “I know we have the talent, and we are well on our way,” shared Eduardo. Joe says, “Our success story. As we continue to build this solid foundation, evolve analytics, and continue to develop the best team in the industry, we will no doubt be recognized as the best DSO in the United States. I want to be attached to that success.” Though they came to DCA in different ways, the DVPs have the same goal. To improve the operational leadership and support of our practices, so that our practices can deliver exceptional patient care and experiences. The DVPs are a united force in our organization that help to set us apart. While their management styles, and the practices and teams that they lead may be different, they are fully aligned, always communicating and collaborating, and learning from one another. This Operations team is more like family than colleagues. And we are fortunate to call them allies.

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“

“ Joe Eckerle DVP, Northeast Ally since 2018

“

Five years ago, I never thought I would have held three positions and am now running a division. It has been a great journey that I have many to be thankful to for their guidance and support along the way.”

We can try new things and think outside the box. We have a great team who are self-starters and focused 100% on our mission and goals. I love to be part of the continued growth and performance from this team.”

My favorite part about my job is our people. I love to collaborate with our team and help problem solve to provide the best support to our practices and our teams. I have been fortunate to have the opportunity at DCA to expand my horizons and grow professionally. I aspire to help our team members to do the same.”

Though they came to DCA in different ways, the DVPs have the same goal. To improve the operational leadership and support of our practices.

Craig Murray

“ Nicole Lipp DVP, Southeast Ally since 2010

DVP, West Ally since 2016

I truly enjoy working with the regional managers and dental directors in finding ways to support our teams in the field. A memory that I hold dear is the first Regional Manager meeting that I attended in Sarasota. It was wonderful to meet the other RMs and Support team and feel like I was part of something bigger. That we were all working together towards something greater.”

“

Coming from Mexico and never having worked in a DSO before, DCA has always

Shawna Eury DVP, Florida Ally since 2009

allowed me to be myself. It has also provided me with the tools to learn the job, the opportunities to grow, and the necessary paths that I needed to take in order to fulfill my dreams of having more and more responsibility in the company.”

Eduardo Laventman DVP, Orthodontics Ally since 2007

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“ Lisa Khandakji

When our practice was searching for a DSO, we chose DCA because it aligned with our philosophy of patient care.”

Office Manager | Dental One Associates Ally since 1990

Virginia is for Smile Lovers! For 31 years, Lisa Khandaki has been making a daily commute from Stafford to Fairfax – a 45-minute commute one way. Why? Because she loves where she works. Dental One Associates became an ally of DCA in 2016. Up until that point, Lisa served as practice administrator of three locations. Now, she manages Dental One Associates’ office in Woodson Square. “I show up every day for my patients and my staff,” says Lisa. “Everything else is secondary. I love my job.” DCA has played a major role in Lisa’s career journey. When her practice became affiliated with the company, the previous owner didn’t stay on board. Lisa’s practice had maintained its doctors and staff, but they had to restructure quickly. “The very next day, he was gone,” she recalls. “In the very beginning, I was like a mushroom in the dark. But the DCA support staff walked me through every step. Everyone was so helpful, and they kept great attitudes throughout the process. After just one month, everything was running smoothly again.” That sense of unwavering support has been consistent through the years. “I grow professionally every single

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day. I’ve learned so much through the extended training programs and networking. The regional managers and office managers meet once a month – and we all lean on each other,” she remarks. “When our practice was searching for a DSO, we chose DCA because it aligned with our philosophy of patient care.” Lisa believes that DCA will continue to grow and acquire new affiliates. “Our practices can all draw from each other,” she says. “When we need to refer our patients out, they feel comfortable knowing we’re sending them to a sister office.” Patients aren’t the only ones who benefit from this allyship. “The growth potential for my staff is impressive,” says Lisa. “Someone I hired is now a regional manager. As my employees excel and go on to other things, that just enforces the family feel. We all want each other to succeed.” With the help of Lisa, Dental One Associates of Springfield is a warm, welcoming place for those in the community. “All of my patients know me well. I’ve seen many of their children grow up. We really are one big happy family.”

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Dr. Bryan Laskin Chief Innovation Officer Ally since 2018

Innovation is in Our DNA Dr. Bryan Laskin’s journey with DCA started with a conversation, wherein he quickly clicked, and vice versa, with members of DCA leadership during an Association of Dental Support Organization (ADSO) conference. Dr. Laskin was successfully running a two-office practice and several small dental technology companies. He became interested in partnering with a DSO as a way to help manage his varied businesses, his interests, and relieve stress. Ultimately, he wanted to focus on the things he loved. Dr. Laskin is a successful dentist, innovator, and investor who has enjoyed monumental success in the dental industry over the years. Before joining DCA in 2018. Dr. Laskin had a multi-office practice and was looking for a way to focus more on taking care of patients. When researching the DSO approach, he couldn’t find a company that lined up with his vision. In fact, he even considered

starting his own organization. That all changed when he was introduced to DCA. “I was immediately impressed with Dave, Dale, James, and the entire leadership team,” says Dr. Laskin. “I felt a connection right away. They offered a fresh, customized approach – unlike the cookie-cutter methods used by other DSOs. This was essential since my practice has a special and unique culture. DCA helped us optimize operations without sacrificing my philosophy.” Dr. Laskin’s technology experience and expertise were recognized and he was given the opportunity to become DCA’s Innovation Officer. Dental technology has always been Dr. Laskin’s passion and greatest area of expertise. “The thing I love most about DCA is their ability to recognize the strengths of each doctor they work with. They saw my love of technology and my commitment to innovation – and rather than forcing me to change direction, they allowed

me to keep building on those strengths as my career progressed.” As the industry rapidly evolves and as advanced technology takes on a more prevalent role in dentistry, Dr. Laskin is able to guide and lead the organization with training and implementation of on the best and most state-of-the-art technologies. Further expanding on his experience with DCA, Dr. Laskin said, “Dentistry is rapidly changing and the clinical demands are much higher than they used to be. DCA has the capacity to address these issues directly and help reduce many of the administrative and technological headaches associated with running a practice.” When asked what DCA has done for his career, Dr. Laskin said, “I can focus more on my vital functions. Best of all, I’m no longer distracted by things I’m not good at. DCA helps dentists do what they enjoy – and do it better.”

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Story 24 SAFE SMILES INITIATIVE

Leaders in the Fight Against COVID-19: Saying ‘Yes’ to the Vaccine Team members of DCA and its affiliated practices play a critical role in providing a safe environment and experience for the patients and communities that we serve. Getting vaccinated is an important step you can take to protect yourself and your colleagues, patients, families, and communities from COVID-19.

Key Things to Know About COVID-19 Vaccines: Patients consistently rank healthcare providers as their most trusted source for vaccine information, because COVID-19 is a new disease with new vaccines, information is rapidly emerging about how vaccines can help us stop the pandemic. Currently, three vaccines are authorized and recommended to prevent COVID-19*: • • •

COVID-19 vaccines help our bodies develop immunity to the virus that causes COVID-19 without us having to get the illness. None of the authorized and recommended COVID-19 vaccines or COVID-19 vaccines currently in development in the United States contain the live virus that causes COVID-19. This means that a COVID-19 vaccine cannot make you sick with COVID-19. The COVID-19 vaccines teach our immune systems how to recognize and fight the virus that causes COVID-19. It typically takes a few weeks for the body to build immunity (protection against the virus that causes COVID-19) after vaccination.

Johnson+Johnson COVID-19 vaccine Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna COVID-19 vaccine.

*DCA’s COVID-19 Vaccine Taskforce is actively monitoring the evolving guidance and developments around the vaccine. The information in this article was accurate at the time it was sent to print on March 15, 2021. Additional information will be shared as it becomes available and verified.

How COVID-19 Vaccines Work

DCA INSIDER THE ANNIVERSARY ISSUE

protect them from COVID-19. Getting vaccinated is an important step you can take to protect yourself and others from COVID-19. Vaccines work with your immune system so your body will be ready to fight the virus if you are exposed. Other steps, like masks and social distancing, help reduce your chance of being exposed to the virus or spreading it to others. Together, COVID-19 vaccination and following the CDC’s recommendations to protect yourself and others, including your colleagues, patients, and families, will offer the best protection from COVID-19. To learn more about COVID-19 vaccines, visit: DCA’s COVID-19 Guidance cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines

Did you say yes to the vaccine? The Bottom Line Protection from COVID-19 is critically important and patients expect that their healthcare providers will take every reasonable precaution to

Securely send your COVID-19 vaccination record card to vaccines@dentalcarealliance.com, so that we can communicate our progress on getting vaccinated to our patients and communities!

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Saying ‘Yes’ at Towncare Dental of Pinecrest

The team at Towncare Dental of Pinecrest is a tight-knit family. For 17 years, this practice and its talented group of dental professionals has been the preferred dental care provider for families in the Pinecrest neighborhood of Miami, Florida. As the COVID pandemic swept the globe, the team at Pinecrest answered the call during reopening, seeing dental emergencies and supporting local healthcare facilities in treating patients in pain. As the world began learning about the dangers of the Coronavirus and how easily it spread from person to person, life as we knew it came to a grinding halt. Stay-at-home orders and guidance from federal health authorities to wear masks and avoid others outside his or her household were put in place across the nation. Almost immediately the promise of a vaccination to stop the spread of COVID consumed our news and other media feeds, and the hearts of Americans yearning to return to normalcy. As we neared the end of 2020, all were hopeful that the vaccine would be available soon. In December, when the first vaccine from Pfizer was authorized and recommended to prevent COVID-19, DCA provided information and guidance through its COVID-19 Vaccine Taskforce to help inform its team members with the latest availability and guidance information from the CDC. On December 3, 2020, initial supplies of COVID-19 vaccine were allocated to healthcare personnel and long-term care facility residents, referred to as Phase 1a.

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Towncare Dental of Pinecrest said YES to the vaccine...As a group, we helped each other get appointments for the vaccine, during a time when they were not readily available to our profession, getting up at early hours of the morning, or staying up late at night.” Laritza Reyes Office Manager

Top row: Gueiler Jamis, Diana Perez, Bibiana La Place, Nathalia Gali. Bottom row: Dr. Anita Pandey, Dr. Harold L. Beddall and Laritza Reyes.

The Pinecrest team considered themselves leaders in the fight against COVID-19 and understood the important role that they play in their patients’ decision making. Initially, vaccination administration in Florida was initially widely decentralized, with differing availability from county to county. The team was fiercely committed to each other, and finding a way to be vaccinated as soon as possible. They talked about the importance of the vaccine, and pledged that, when it was available to them, they would all receive it. The COVID-19 vaccines may cause side effects in some people, such as sore muscles, feeling tired, or mild fever. These reactions mean the vaccine is working to help teach the body how to fight COVID-19 if exposed to it. “We willingly covered

for each other when one of us was out getting the vaccine and helped to fill in where needed if someone didn’t feel well after,” she proudly shared. “This group showed the true definition of team!! We are proud to be a fully vaccinated family!” DCA recommends that all team members receive the vaccine as soon as it is available. At the time of this publication*, two additional vaccines have been approved from Moderna and Johnson & Johnson/Jannsen. While CDC makes recommendations for who should be offered COVID-19 vaccine first, each state has its own plan for deciding who will be vaccinated first and how they can receive vaccines. Please contact your local health department for more information on COVID-19 vaccination in your area.

The Towncare Dental of Pinecrest Team Dr. Diane Alvarez-Rodriguez Ally since 2020

Gueiler Jamis, RDH Ally since 2013

Dr. Harold Beddal Ally since 2015

Lucia Cases Dental Assistant Ally since 2010

Dr. Anita Pandey Ally since 2000 Karla Guerrero, RDH Ally since 2012

Annette De La Gandara Patient Service Rep Ally since 2011

Nathalia Gali Treatment Coordinator Ally since 2015

Claudia Paneque Lead Dental Assistant Ally since 2015

Diana Perez Dental Assistant Ally since 2020

Laritza Reyes Office Manager Ally since 2013

Bibiana Perez Dental Assistant Ally since 2009

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Story 25

Tanya Pape PSR | Maple Shade Dental Group Ally since 2012

Contributing in Meaningful Ways For 15 years, Tanya Pape has been working at Maple Shade Dental Group, an ally of DCA since 2012. She began her career as a chairside assistant with expanded duties. Today, her teammates refer to her as the anchor of their front desk. Even though she primarily works on the PSR team these days, you can still find her performing the occasional child prophy. Her warm smile and positive attitude keeps patients coming back again and again. “I like having new challenges every day,” says Tanya. Her job requires flexibility as well as a variety of skill sets. She helps with treatment planning, takes payments, and assists on procedures when the schedule demands it. Tanya partially credits the success of her Dunlap, Illinois practice to DCA. “They’ve done a lot for our office,” she says. “Our building has been recently updated, we’re in the process of purchasing a CEREC® machine, and we offer many more insurance options for

DCA INSIDER THE ANNIVERSARY ISSUE

our patients now, like DentRite.” When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Tanya was impressed with how DCA handled the situation. “They were really great at making sure we had the appropriate PPE. We never ran out of anything.” “Our office is like one big family,” Tanya says. “I have so many wonderful relationships with my coworkers and my patients.” Tanya married her high school sweetheart and now lives with him, their two children, and their Sheepadoodle. She also teaches Sunday school, attends PTA meetings, and volunteers her time to charity, including Cuddles for Kids – an organization that collects stuffed bears and takes them to the children’s hospital every Valentine’s Day. Though she stays busy with work and her personal life, Tanya acknowledges DCA for giving her the flexibility and stability she enjoys.

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Our office is like one big family...“I have so many wonderful relationships with my coworkers and my patients.”

Tonya pictured with her husband, their two children and their Sheepadoodle puppy.

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Story 26

Dr. Craig Abramowitz Executive Vice Chairman Ally since 2005

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When you get down to what a DSO really is, it’s all about the people. And taking care of people is something that DCA does best.”

Northeast Dental Management (NEDM) Joins the Family As founder of Northeast Dental Management (NEDM), Dr. Craig Abramowitz joined DCA when the two companies merged in 2016. For two years, he served as co-CEO alongside Mitch Olan, and he is now Vice Chairman of the board. “I enjoy providing support to the executive team in any way that I can,” says Dr. Abramowitz. “As someone who ran DSOs in the past, I’m happy to provide advice – and that includes all the things I’ve done wrong.” Dr. Abramowitz believes that DCA will continue down the path of success. “We went through the COVID pandemic

– the greatest challenge that the dental industry has ever seen – and we came out better than ever. I truly think the best days are in front of us – and that is a credit to every single person in this company.” “I can’t wait to get back to normal life,” says Dr. Abramowitz. “One of my fondest memories was during one our annual meetings in Las Vegas. When we were there a few years back, they hired a hypnotist as an entertainer. I watched in amazement as several of my colleagues were hypnotized during the stage show. I arrived as a skeptic and walked away a believer. To date, it remains one of the funniest, most memorable moments of my DCA career.” These days, Dr. Abramowitz is cultivating a positive work-life balance. He says, “When you’re the CEO of a company, it’s a labor of love and it’s all-consuming. When Jerry Rhodes took over that role, it gave me more time to spend with my family. I’m very fortunate for that. Because of Jerry, I’m able to have a life.” Dr. Abramowitz is married with three children. When he’s not working, he focuses on enjoying activities with friends and family. Dr. Abramowitz attributes DCA’s success to two things: culture and communication. “When you get down to what a DSO really is, it’s all about the people. And taking care of people is something that DCA does best.”

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Story 27

Supporting the Support Teams Debbie Wise Executive Administrative Assistant Ally since 2000

In 1998, Debbie Wise moved from Massachusetts to Florida to be closer to her family. After working at a law firm for a short time, she decided to look for employment at a larger company – one in which she could create friendships and cultivate family-like relationships. She found that at DCA. Debbie joined the team in 2000, during the Interdent merger, and was hired on as an accounts payable coordinator. While she enjoyed her job, she knew that her strengths were in administrative assisting. So, when a job opened up, she applied. Shortly after the DCA buyback in 2001, Debbie landed a job working for Mitch Olan, COO. “I supported Mitch and all of the regional managers, and handled anything that was needed,” says Debbie. Later, in 2005, DentRite was rolled out, and she took over the administrative aspect of that program. By 2011, the program had grown significantly and is now led by Debbi Rassell. Today, Debbie supports

DCA INSIDER THE ANNIVERSARY ISSUE

the CEO, COO, and President of DCA. Debbie also helped and enjoyed planning Support Center events, from Halloween costume contests to Christmas parties. One of her favorite memories is selling appreciation cards for Valentine’s Day. “We gave everyone an opportunity to purchase cards for one dollar a piece,” said Debbie. “Anyone who received appreciation cards could come to our makeshift candy store and trade them in for sweets. We donated the proceeds to charity. I had a lot of fun organizing that event. It gave us all an opportunity to show our gratitude to team members throughout the company.” Debbie says that DCA leadership has always instilled confidence in her. “I appreciate knowing they trust me” Debbie says about her work for Mitch, Jerry, Dale and Jeff. “I’m a worker bee. I’m not really the managerial type. I feel an immense sense of accomplishment just getting the job done.”

Photos from the 2002 DCA Annual Meeting in Las Vegas.Top from Left: Jeanne Cook, Mitch Olan and Debbie. Bottom: Debbie pictured with Dave Nichols.

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Caryn Ackerman Office Manager, Sarasota Support Center Ally since 1999

aryn Ackerman has been with DCA since 1999, when she joined the team as administrative assistant to Dave Nichols, CFO. Since that time, she’s become Office Manager of the Sarasota Support Center and has watched the company outgrow three business locations. Because of the many hats she wears, Caryn has the unique opportunity to work with several different divisions. “As Office Manager, I enjoy the interaction I have with all the departments in the Sarasota Support Center,” says Caryn. “As administrative assistant to the CFO of DCA. I also work closely with the finance department. Both roles allow me to build rapport with many of my team members, as well as maintain the friendships I’ve made over the years.” One of Caryn’s contributions to DCA culture is keeping the Support Center team engaged. “As the support center grew and expanded on our Sarasota campus, it was important to Dave Nichols & Mitch Olan to continue the family-like atmosphere,” she recalls. “So, I was asked to plan socials and fun activities for our team members and we enjoyed gathering and getting to know one another better over the years.”

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I look forward to when we can all return to the Sarasota campus and rebuild the camaraderie that’s been absent since March 2020.”

Caryn reminisces about the way that the Sarasota

From Left: Caryn with Mitch Olan, Saratsota Support Center Employee Fun day 2013. Top Right: Caryn with late husband, Larry. Bottom Right: Saratsota Support Center Employee Baseball Night, 2017.

Support Team embraced her late husband, Larry. “He was an unofficial employee at DCA. An integral member of the team, his title was Chef Ackerman for all the deep fried turkeys and hams he made for our Thanksgiving and Easter potlucks,” she says. “They made him feel welcome from the first day I joined DCA.” The COVID-19 pandemic has put a damper on event planning as of late, but Caryn is excited about the future. “I look forward to when we can all return to the Sarasota campus and rebuild the camaraderie that’s been absent since March 2020.”

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Story 28

Maria Daizi Regional Manager Ally since 2005

Southeast Florida’s Matriarch M

aria Daizi has been with DCA for nearly 25 years. Starting out as an office manager in 1997, she moved into the role of regional manager three years later. Together, Maria and the Southeast Florida team have created a culture unlike any other. First and foremost, Maria wants to acknowledge her team members and the commitment they show every single day. “I always tell my managers that we’ve built a castle,” says Maria. “Seventy percent of us have been together for 15 to 20 years. We’ve been able to grow as one. That is my pride and joy! We truly appreciate each other and work together toward a common goal.” She also credits DCA leadership for helping their allies and teams flourish. “I have so much appreciation for the company as a whole,” she says. “They really give us the tools we need to be successful.” Maria’s primary focus is providing excellent customer service to her patients. “I love dentistry, I love my team, and I love knowing how much we change people’s lives,” she stated. “We’ve seen a lot of changes through the years, but we’ve been able to see them through in a productive way. We learn to go along with the transitions and make things happen.” One of the most significant changes Maria has

DCA INSIDER THE ANNIVERSARY ISSUE

witnessed, like so many others in the industry, is the COVID-19 pandemic. “When COVID hit, a lot of assistants left. They chose other careers. DCA really stepped up and handled the situation exceptionally.” Maria recalls so many wonderful memories throughout her years at DCA. “They held a town hall meeting recently when Jerry came to our region,” she says. “Over 200 people were in attendance, and I was able to celebrate my 60th birthday with them all. It was such a lovely experience. DCA is a business, but it is also a family.” When Maria isn’t working, she loves to pamper herself with massages and healthy living. She also enjoys spending time with her two daughters and three grandkids, who all live nearby. She can often be found on the beach or out on her boat fishing.

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Seventy percent of us have been together for 15 to 20 years. We’ve been able to grow as one. That is my pride and joy! We truly appreciate each other and work together toward a common goal.”

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Story 29

I was so excited to come back because I get to work with these folks once again. It’s such an enjoyable job. We have a lot of cohesiveness. Everyone works toward the common goal.”

Dr. Barry Lyon Clinical Director, Maryland Ally since 2010

Returning to DCA with Renewed Commitment Dr. Barry Lyon first affiliated with DCA in 2010. He was the owner at a busy pediatric dental and orthodontic practice. “After I affiliated, the plan was to continue working in my office two and a half days a week and travel with the current dental director the rest of the week. After one year, the other dental director would retire and I would take over.” But things didn’t go as planned. “He had a fatal heart attack six weeks after I started,” says Dr. Lyon. “And I was suddenly thrown into the role as dental director.” “I loved being a dental director,” says Dr. Lyon. But he missed working with DCA after he left in 2017. “I was so anxious to come back because I get to work with these folks once again,” he says. “It’s such an enjoyable job. We have a lot of cohesiveness. Everyone works toward the common goal.” Dr. Lyon attributes DCA’s unparalleled success to its leadership and patient-centered philosophy. “The company has grown significantly and has been

successful in doing so,” he says. “The dental directors we have across the country are very devoted to their jobs. Clinically, we’re very sound and we provide consistent, high-quality care. DCA is patient-driven, not dollar-driven, and that’s so important. If you take care of patients sincerely, then the rest will fall into place.” “The culture of DCA is so positive,” Dr. Lyon continues. “We’re a tightly-knit community. The corporate meetings were almost like family reunions. I really enjoyed connecting with people each year in Las Vegas. People think I’m crazy, but this job is like a hobby to me.” Dr. Lyon deeply values the teamwork and collaboration within DCA. “I know this article is supposed to be about me,” he says. “But I couldn’t do what I do without my regional managers, office managers, and our corporate leadership in Sarasota.”

Left: Dr. Lyon pictured with Mitch Olan at a DCA meeting in Las Vegas 2014. Dr. Lyon all smiles, manning our booth at an industry trade show.

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Story 30

Mitch Olan Executive Chairman Ally since 1991

Finding Our Roots DCA quite literally wouldn’t be what it is today without Mitch Olan. After Dr. Steve Matzkin opened his first two practices in 1991, Mitch joined the team in 1994 to help lead the startup DSOAfter serving as COO for 18 years and CEO for 6 years, Mitch became a Board Member at DCA – a role in which he retains today. “We saw a much-needed opportunity to support dentists as business people. So, we relocated from Michigan to Florida, and the rest is history,” says Mitch. “We thought about licensing our services, but ultimately we realized it was more beneficial to partner with practices. We started out by affiliating with a couple of offices a year – and in 1997, we took the company public.” In the years that followed, the company faced some unique challenges. In 1999, DCA merged with a company called Gentle Dental to form Interdent. In time, DCA leadership realized that the philosophies of the two entities simply didn’t line up. So, in 2001, DCA bought their division back. “That was a game changer,” said Mitch. “From 2001 to 2012, we grew to 100 locations. Then we brought in a private equity partner, Quad C.” In 2015, DCA

“

joined forces with Harvest Partners, an even larger PE firm, which paved the way to exponential growth. Today, DCA is one of the largest and most respected DSOs in the United States. Mitch is most proud of the career opportunities provided within the company. “There are people who started out as office managers who now serve as VPs. The career paths that we’ve implemented have created a new level of responsibility for bigger and greater things. DCA found methods to support the industry in ways that were not really being done.” “DCA’s future is incredibly bright because of its strong infrastructure,” says Mitch. “Consolidation of the dental industry is going to continue for at least the next decade. And I think we’re in a great space at a great time. We serve the dental community in a way that’s getting better with every passing year. The strong will survive – and we will survive because our team is resilient.” As DCA’s longest tenured employee, Mitch still lives in Sarasota. He loves golfing, snow skiing, and traveling with his wife and two children.

The strong will survive – and we will survive because our team is resilient.” 56

DCA INSIDER THE ANNIVERSARY ISSUE

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DCA quite literally wouldn’t be what it is today without Mitch Olan.

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Supported Practices Arizona Cordon Orthodontics, Cave Creek East Valley Implant and Periodontal Center Mesa Scottsdale Phoenix Precision Dental, Gilbert

Arkansas Arkansas Maxillofacial Surgery Little RockBryant Ashcraft Orthodontics Little Rock Jacksonville

Colorado

Bradenton Mandarin, Jacksonville Mount Dora Ocala Oceans Dental Group, Palm Coast Ocoee Orange Avenue Dentistry, Orlando Orange City Orlando Pembroke Pines Quail Meadows, Ocala RDV at Sportsplex, Orlando Riverview Rockledge Dental Sarasota Sarasota East Shady Road, Ocala Sweetwater Smiles, Longwood Tampa Temple Terrace Anastasia Dental Associates, St. Augustine

Colorado Springs Oral Surgery Colorado Springs North Colorado Springs South Pueblo

Argyle Dental Center, Jacksonville

Connecticut

David Bowles, DDS Bradenton Sarasota

Huntington Family Dental Group, Shelton Lighthouse Dental Care, Stratford Long Wharf Dental Group, New Haven Premier Dental of Connecticut Danbury Fairfield Farmington Valley Hartford

Delaware New Castle Dental Associates, New Castle

Florida Advanced Dental Care Bradenton Brandon Citrus Park, Tampa Clearwater, Largo Designer Smiles, Orlando Englewood Lakewood Ranch, Bradenton Manatee Dental at College Park, Bradenton Manatee Dental of East 58

Boynton Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery & Implant Center, Boynton Beach

Dental Associates of Florida Bartow Brooksville Central Brandon Lakeland Lutz Plant City Sun City Tampa Walding & Associates, Lakeland Winter Haven Dental Specialty Center Aventura Baptist, Miami Cape Coral Cutler Bay Forest Hill, West Palm Beach Fort Myers Homestead Jupiter Miami Beach Naples Palmetto Center for Dental Specialties Sunrise Center for Dental Specialties Galt Family Dentistry, Fort Lauderdale

DCA INSIDER THE ANNIVERSARY ISSUE

Imray & Gesek Baymeadows, Jacksonville Orange Park Park Street, Jacksonville Main Street Children’s Dentistry & Orthodontics Aventura Baptist Medical Plaza, Miami Cape Coral Clermont Ft. Myers Homestead Jupiter Kendall, Miami London Square, Miami Miami Beach Miami Lakes Naples Orange City Palmetto Bay Palmetto Hospital, Hialeah Plantation South Broward, Cooper City Waterford Lakes, Orlando Wellington, Royal Palm Beach Winter Park Miami Center for Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry, Miami Pediatric Dental Associates, Miami Tioga Dental & Orthodontics Celebration Pointe Gainesville Towncare Dental Altamonte Springs Bonita Springs Cape Coral Clermont Cutler Bay Dental Associates of Hollywood Dental Associates of Kendall Dental Center at Aventura Dental Center at Baptist, Miami Forest Hill, West Palm Beach Ft. Myers G&G Dental Associates, Tamarac Hialeh Square Homestead Jupiter Dental Group London Square, Miami Miami Beach Dental Center Naples Naples Center for Cosmetic Dentistry Palm Dental Center, Hialeah Pembroke Pines Pinecrest, Miami Plantation Dental Services

Sunrise Dental Group, Plantation Superior Dental, Plantation West Kendall, Miami Winter Park

Georgia Buford Family Dentistry Dental One Associates College Park Drs. Grant & Conger, Dalton Eagles Landing, Stockbridge Fayetteville Kennesaw Marietta Toco Hills, Atlanta Imagix Dental Alpharetta Dental Professionals of Vinings, Atlanta Hickory Flat Dental, Woodstock Johns Creek Dental, Suwanee Legacy Pediatric Dental & Orthodontics, Kennesaw Norcross Roswell Suwanee North Point Periodontics & Dental Implants, Alpharetta Northside Oral Surgery, Dunwoody Patrick Toms DMD, Gainesville Quality Orthodontic Care Alpharetta Johns Creek Town Center Dental, Suwanee

Illinois Forever Family Dental of New Lenox Maple Shade Dental Camp Crossing, East Peoria East Peoria Peoria, Dunlap The Foehr Group, Bloomington

Indiana Brace Yourself Orthodontics Elkhart South Bend The Dental Center Goshen

Granger Mishawaka Plymouth South Bend (Adult) South Bend (Pedo) Warsaw

Minnesota

Wadas Dental Center Crown Point Munster

American Dental Center, Union

Maryland College Park Dental, College Park Dental One Associates Annapolis Belair, Abingdon Beltway, Baltimore Columbia Cross Keys, Baltimore Drs. Lasher and Harriman, Waldorf Frederick Oxon Hill Steeplechase, Capitol Heights Valley Dental Associates, Owings Mills Westminster Main Street Children’s Dentistry & Orthodontics Elkton Forest Hill Glen Burnie Havre de Grace Perring Parkway, Baltimore

Massachusetts Baystate Dental Belchertown Chicopee Greenfield Harrison Holyoke Ludlow Northampton Springfield Sturbridge West Springfield Westfield Wilbraham

Michigan Family Dental Group, Flint Gentle Dental Grand River Avenue, Detroit Gratiot Avenue, Detroit New Baltimore Shelby Township St. Clair Shores Warren Westland

Lake Minnetonka Dental, Wayzata

New Jersey Dental Arts of South Jersey, Voorhees Dental Solutions Blackwood Deptford Voorhees Diamond Spring Dental Associates, Denville Garden State Dental East Brunswick Newark Roselle Park Toms River Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics of Midland Park Thurm Dental Group

New York Dentists’ Office of the Hudson Valley, Lake Katrine Dolson Avenue Dental, Middletown Family Dental Group Brewster Fishkill Jefferson Valley Kids Family Dental Long Island Dental Specialty, Huntington PDA Dental, New York City Ramapo Dental Care, Suffern

Roxborough, Philadelphia Stoney Creek, Springfield Upper Darby Gentle Dental Allentown Blue Bell Collingdale Haverford Oregon Avenue, Philadelphia Springfield Thorndale West Chester

Texas

Austin Children’s Dentistry & Orthodontics Austin Avery Ranch, Austin Hutto Leander Round Rock Made Ya Smile Cypress Eldridge Lakes Friendswood Katy Kingwood Pearland Rayford Crossing Rosenberg Sienna Plantation Spring Cypress Sugar Land West Eight Crossing Woodlands Orthodontics by Birth & Fletcher Arlington Burleson Fort Worth Keller Randol Mill Family Dentistry, Arlington

Tyson’s Corner, Vienna Dental One Associates Fairfax Fredericksburg Manassas Springfield Woodbridge Woodson Square, Fairfax Dental Specialty Centers of Virginia Chesapeake Virginia Beach Drs. Delgado & Kuzmik Alexandria Vienna, Tyson’s Corner Elite Dental Group Arlington Virginia Dental Center Cosmetic & Family Dentistry Hermann & Desio Family Dentistry, Falls Church Klar Voorhees Orthodontics Courthouse, Virginia Beach Greenbrier, Chesapeake Hilltop, Virginia Beach Kempsville, Virginia Beach Suffolk Konikoff Dental Associates Battlefield Boulevard, Chesapeake Cedar Road, Chesapeake Edinburgh, Chesapeake General Booth, Virginia Beach Harbour View, Suffolk Konikoff Kids, Virginia Beach Little Neck, Virginia Beach Lynnhaven, Virginia Beach Shore Drive, Virginia Beach Volvo Parkway, Chesapeake Northern Virginia Oral Maxillofacial Surgery Associates Annandale Manassas Woodbridge

Saw Mill Dental, Yonkers

South Texas Orthodontics La Cantera, San Antonio Northwest – Tezel, San Antonio Schertz Stone Oak, San Antonio

Ohio

Virginia

Eckels Orthodontics, Marietta

Atlas Walk Dental, Gainesville

Pennsylvania

Ballston Dental Arts, Arlington

Taheri Dental Group Manassas Woodbridge

Brad M. Freedman, DDS & Associates, Alexandria

West Virginia

Richard L. Rausch, DDS, New York City

Dental Solutions 13th Street, Philadelphia Bala Cynwyd Cedarbrook, Wyncote Grant Avenue, Philadelphia Jenkintown Market Street, Philadelphia Media

Dental Associates of Northern Virginia Alexandria Burke Fair Oaks, Fairfax Skyline, Falls Church

Polifko & Dvorak, Woodbridge Rye Smiles for Life, Fairfax Smiles at Fairfax Corner, Fairfax

Eckels Orthodontics Parkersburg Ripley

ISSUE 7 / APRIL 2021

DCA Support Directory We are here to help you. Please use this information to connect with any member of the DCA Support Team with questions or needs.

Full Name

Ext

Title

002300

Insurance Coordinator

Abby Frey

–

DA Training Specialist

Abigail Colon

–

Insurance Coordinator - CBO

Alberto Suarez

–

Contact Center Coordinator

Aaron D’Amico

Alex Bardenhagen

–

Sr. Contact Center Coordinator

C.J. Nocella

Ext 002409

Title IT Integration Manager (386) 986-0451

Full Name

Ext 008030

Systems Manager (305) 710-7245

Donel Petrin

007547

Sr. IT Operations Specialist (941) 504-4124

–

Fee Schedule Analyst

Carla Nesta

007257

Lead HR Coordinator

Carol Juliano

007231

Accounts Payable Coordinator

Dr. Don Gallo

008034

Chief Clinical Officer (786) 972-0458

Caroline Ramsdell

001103

Staff Accountant

Eddie Parmenter

009201

IT Operations Specialist

Edna Kittendorf

002325

Accounts Payable Coordinator Accounts Payable Coordinator

Caitlin Schlabach

007275

Alice Ricciardi

–

Insurance Coordinator

Caryn Ackerman

007247

Office Manager & Administrative Assistant (Russell Allen)

Alyssa Duran

–

Insurance Coordinator

Catherine Blasko

002401

Executive Assistant (Dr. Matzkin)

Elizabeth (Beth) Bruns

007256

Amanda Newberry

–

Fee Schedule Analyst

Cassondra Parsons

Insurance Coordinator

Ellen Peacock

007225

Insights & Engagement Specialist

Cecelie Battilana

CSM Team

Eric Jackson

Insurance Coordinator

Chelsea Mason

005007

HR Coordinator NE

Erica Woolard

Amber Altiero

007007 –

Title

Denise Arechavaleta

Alex Pallares

Amanda Stevens

Senior Data Analyst

Full Name

– –

Ana Atiles

008008

Sr. Payroll Specialist

Chelsea Thompson

007309

Ana Cabiedes

008019

Claims Rep

Erin Keating

– 001089 –

Senior Recruiter Network Telecom Analyst Director of Marketing Operations Insurance Coordinator - CBO

007290

Staff Accountant

–

AP Coordinator

Christa Bass

005005

Senior Recruiter

Erwin Goodwin

Angelique Swann

–

Implant Project Manager

Christopher Ta

002412

Helpdesk Representative I

Faye Lucchesi

Annette Cason

–

Insurance Coordinator - CBO

Gabriela SmithFranco

007280

Garth McMullen

–

Vice President, Talent Acquisition & Retention (941) 720-7189 Director of Practice Development (786) 298-7853

Chuck Aldrich

064049

Director of R/E & Facilities

Anthony Caiazzo

001086

Staff Accountant

Cindy McKenzie

008027

Asst. Instructional Designer

Anthony Gallant

001099

Digital Marketing Director

Cindy Tomblin

005009

HR Coordinator

Anthony Hueston

–

Senior Staff Accountant

Claudia Rubio

007550

Legal Assistant

DentRite Customer Service

April Cutler

007245

Staff Accountant

Claudine Walters

007238

Integration Accounting Manager

Glory Grossbard

–

April Grinchenko

002307

Insurance Coordinator (Verifications)

Colleen Edel

003085

Doctor Administrator

Grace Dragotta

007274

Director of Planning & Analysis

Corrine Stoltzfus

007386

Assistant Controller Grady Wilson

002405

IT Integration Specialist (941) 374-5122

–

VP of Business Development (Southeast) (330) 310-6675

Executive Vice Chairman (201) 303-5648

Greg Lindman

–

007294

IT Operations Specialist

Heather Brealey

002326

IT Operations Specialist

–

CSM Team

Arianny Espinoza

–

Staff Accountant 1 - Finance

Ashley Mofford

–

Insurance Coordinator

Austin Hunter

–

Business Development Coordinator

April Snowden

Autumn Rogers

007173

Insurance Data Specialist

Azure Larsen

–

Insurance Coordinator

Barbara Goodman

–

Revenue Cycle Manager

Barry Ames

007544

Dentist Recruiter

Beau Peurifoy

002415

Helpdesk Representative 1

Berenice Quintero Hernandez

–

Insurance Coordinator

Beth Vaniderstine

–

CSM Team

Betsy Layhew

005004

Betty Guarino

–

Recruiter Administrative Director - Northeast (Evolve Ext. 60001)

Betty Munoz

001064

Staff Accountant

Bobbi Coil

002304

Lead Insurance Coordinator

Brian Peddie

–

Technology & Accounting Policy Director

Bridget O’Neill

–

Director, Affiliate Integrations

Bryan Weston

–

Helpdesk Representative 1

DCA INSIDER THE ANNIVERSARY ISSUE

Cory Ramos

Craig Abramowitz

Craig Murray

007555

DVP, West (857) 272-5156

Crystal Chouinard

007279

Delegated Credentialing Coordinator

D.J. Schlehlein

002402

Systems Administrator

Dale Hockel

007558

Chief Operating Officer (317) 292-4044

Danny Burke

007291

VP of Tax

Darnelle Gomez

–

Jake Gaecke

Buyer

James Murray

001107

Digital Marketing Specialist

James Nick

001095

Chief Revenue Officer (920) 265-4362

Jamie Heister

007295

IT Operations Specialist

Jason Chaffin

002417

Chief Information Officer (615) 585-7095

007271

Employment Manager/Dentist Recruiter (941) 809-5245

Training Specialist

007560

VP of Revenue Cycle

Jeff Dreels

David Nichols

007542

Board Member (941) 809-5940

Jeff Koziel

–

Chief Development Officer (610) 304-5029

David Quigley

007552

General Counsel & Compliance Officer

Debbi Rassel

007272

DentRite Customer Service Supervisor

Debbie Wise

007237

Executive Assistant (J. Rhodes, D. Hockel & M. Olan)

Senior Data Scientist

001050

David Neal

David Pegg

–

James Jean-Louis

–

President

Jeleany Mesa

008029

Payroll Specialist

Jenifer Woods Lammi

002334

Collections

Jennifer Gomez

008014

Credentialing Coordinator

Jennifer Obriot

009321

Senior Professional Recruiter

Jennifer Seeds

010120

Consumer Experience Specialist

Jenny Gil

008026

Payroll Coordinator

DCA SUPPORT DIRECTORY

Full Name

Title

Full Name

Ext

VP of Analytics & Review Programs

Rob Harris

002420

IT Admin Developer

007233

Assistant Accounting Manager

Rosie Chersia

007299

Accounts Payable Coordinator

007240

Human Resources Manager

Russell Allen

007549

Chief Financial Officer

CSM Team

Ruthie Farquharson

007249

Treasury Management Supervisor

Ryan Zeman

–

VP of Business Development (815) 793-3421

Sandy Goding

007281

Accounts Payable Coordinator

Savannah Newbanks

002422

IT Integration Coordinator

Title

Full Name

007557

Chief Executive Officer (484) 678-7466

Matthew Thiel

–

Megan Martin

Jessica Gay

–

Insurance Coordinator

Meghan Anderson

Jessica Ramos

–

Sr. Benefits Administrator

Jessica Savidge

007196

Associate General Counsel

Jody Annis

007241

IT Financial Analyst

Joel Olivio

002418

Josh Maggard

Jerry Rhodes

Ext

Melanie Ahrens

Ext

–

Melissa Rothenbach

007298

Financial Analyst

IT Technical Services Director (941) 348-9161

Michael Bergelin

001068

Brand Manager

001115

Digital Marketing Specialist

Michael Calder

Juanita Honor

002323

Accounts Payable Coordinator

Juergen Mohr

007236

Sr. Staff Accountant

Julian Wilder

002406

Network/Telecom Analyst (941) 376-3746

Kandy Butler

–

Karen Harper

001063

Insurance Coordinator

008028

Claims Rep

Kelly McCormick

007288

Accounts Payable Coordinator

Kelly Stillman

001097

VP, Communications & Culture (317) 741-8842

Kendra Bennett

001047

Human Resources Specialist

Kevin Burke

001112

Procurement Director

Kim Bastien

001077

Insurance Coordinator

Kyle Olivarri

001098

Brand Manager

Lauren Johnson

– 007556

Michael Duff

002308

Insurance Coordinator

Serifat Bello

007260

Accounts Payable Coordinator

Michael Tremba

002413

IT Help Desk

Shauna Pierce

008010

Payroll Manager (305) 502-5405

Michaela Muniz

002362

Director of Insurance Plan Management

Shawn Wherry

007228

VP of Marketing (941) 914-4768

Michelle Axberg

–

Insurance Mail Coordinator

Sim Son

002414

Marketing Operations Specialist

Karina Argotte

Laura Cortes

–

CSM Team Project Manager (R/E Operations)

Leslie Williams

007244

Sr. Accounts Payable Coordinator

Linda Quartaro

007235

Staff Accountant

VP of Business Development (South Central) (720) 581-5668

Mike Cole

007246

VP of Insurance Plan Management/DentRite (727) 424-2990

Mike McGarigle

007292

Assistant Accounting Manager

Mitch Olan

007541

Executive Chairman (941) 809-5944

Molly Benz

–

Monica Chouinard Neko Cruz

007281 –

Senior Brand Manager 941-376-4501

–

CSM Team

–

Associate Marketing Coordinator

Susan Webb

–

Affiliate Project Manager

Nick Schorr

003102

Senior Construction Project Manager

Talia Pandolfi

007222

Nicole Chaulsett

007553

IT Operations Manager (941) 650-4734

008006

Business Support

Oscar Irazoque

008024

Payroll Analyst

Lisa Pallotto

007261

Payroll Manager - Northeast (Evolve Ext. 60009) (201) 739-2260

Pam Mitchell

007227

Sr. Staff Accountant

Lisa Soto

006110

Accounts Payable Coordinator

Pamela Boyle

–

Livie Paret

007248

Corporate Tax Manager

Patrick Perry

002410

Helpdesk Representative I

Maggie Crymer

002445

Sr. Contact Center Coordinator

Paula Walters

007285

Accounts Payable Coordinator

Manuel Torres

007277

Sr. Staff Accountant

Peter Menke

007252

Staff Accountant II

Marco Stewart

002411

Helpdesk Representative I

Rachel Black

001054

Purchasing Coordinator

Ray Lannen

007262

Sr. Financial Analyst

Raygena Bailey

007287

Accounting Clerk (Treasury)

Rebekah LaBarrie

–

Sr. Credentialing Specialist

Renard Bryant

–

Network Telecom Analyst

Richard Papaluca

–

CBO Insurance Coordinator

Staff Accountant

Stephanie Toney

Susan Stith

Ocli Cundins

001084

Credentialing Supervisor

Accounting Clerk (Treasury)

Insurance Coordinator

Matthew Plough

008032

007220

002332

008016

Stephanie Gomez

Nelly Garcia

IT Operations Specialist

Marie-Line Rigaud

Creative Director

Credentialing Specialist

007289

Training & Organizational Development Manager (786) 877-6080

001056

–

Nicole Soler

Insurance Coordinator

Stefanie Grossman

Steven Cole

Contact Center Coordinator

–

Accounts Payable Coordinator

Insurance Coordinator

–

Marie Barillas

007243

VP of Human Resources (352) 430-4326

Lisa Keith

CSM Team

Sophia Eteau

005001

Insurance Coordinator

–

IT Help Desk Insurance Coordinator

Steve Duval

–

Maria Gacek

–

Sonya Francisco

Administrative Assistant (Credentialing/DentRite)

Lisa Altiero

Lisa Liquori

Title

Staff Accountant

Teresa Ishak

–

Tiffany Eun

003086 –

Tijo Ammakuzhiyil

Controller (813) 774-2265 Staff Accountant 2 Finance Employment Coordinator - Recruit Assistant Accounting Manager

Traci Dunn

007242

Insurance Data Specialist

Tracy Pham

001082

Human Resources Manager

Vickie Arthur

007250

Accounting Clerk (Treasury)

Virginia Travis

–

CSM Team

–

Insurance Coordinator

001073

Senior Accounts Payable

Zachary Fonder

–

Insurance Coordinator

Zackary Fischer

–

Helpdesk Representative 1

William Cole William Sizemore

Zayda Trujillo

008021

Claims Rep

Sarasota Support Center 6240 Lake Osprey Drive Sarasota, FL 34240 Main: (941) 955-3150 Fax: (941) 388-6989

ISSUE 7 / APRIL 2021

Quick Reference Department Contact Information Accounts Payable

—

accountspayablesupport@dentalcarealliance.com

Human Resources

—

(941) 306-1823

Analytics

—

analytics@dentalcarealliance.com

Inclusion & Diversity

—

inclusion@dentalcarealliance.com

Benefits

—

dcabenefits@dentalcarealliance.com

Insurance Fee Schedules

—

feeschedules@dentalcarealliance.com

Business Development

—

Central Business Office

002301

cbo@dentalcarealliance.com

Collections

002334

collections@dentalcarealliance.com

Communications

001097

communications@dentalcarealliance.com

Coupa Credentialing Contact Center Help

(941) 359-8492 partnerships@dentalcarealliance.com

Insurance Plan Entry

002307

InsPlan@dentalcarealliance.com

Kronos

008026

kronoshelp@dentalcarealliance.com

Marketing

—

dcamarketing@dentalcarealliance.com

Media Requests

—

media@dentalcarealliance.com

Patient Satisfaction

—

coupasupport@dentalcarealliance.com

008032

credentialing@dentalcareallance.com

Procurement

contactcenterhelp@dentalcarealliance.com

—

patientsatisfaction@dentalcarealliance.com (941) 216-1983

002320

orders@dentalcarealliance.com

Refunds

—

refunds@dentalcarealliance.com

DentRite

001800

dentrite@dentalcarealliance.com

Talent Acquisiton

—

TA@dentalcarealliance.com

D.I.C.E.

001097

dice@dentalcarealliance.com

Treasury

—

treasury@dentalcarealliance.com

facilities@dentalcarealliance.com

Scheduling Maximization Team

—

CSMTeam@dentalcarealliance.com

smile!

—

smile@dentalcarealliance.com

Facility Service —

eMaint X4

https://x41.emaint.com

(Facilities Work Orders) Henry Schein Equipment Service

064049

ces@henryschein.com

Support Services

(800) 645-6594

IT, LMS, Schedule Changes

002400

support@dentalcarealliance.com (941) 552-2400

DCA Clinical Leadership Team Alex Cardounel, DDS Florida

Gene Witkin, DDS Georgia

Matthew Steur, DMD Colorado

Stephen Price, DDS Virginia

Barry Lyon, DDS Maryland, Pedo/Ortho

Jason Cooper, DDS Indiana

Michael Kesner, DDS Texas

Steven Goldstein, DDS New Jersey

Bryan Laskin, DDS Minnesota

Jorge A. Vargas, DMD Main Street

Michelle Mattioli, DMD Virginia

Todd Jorgenson, DDS Arizona

Dennis Corona, DDS Florida & Michigan

Lorne Yasbin, DMD Maryland

Mitch Blumenthal, DMD Pennsylvania & South New Jersey

William Trey Mueller, DMD Florida

Edan Blumenthal, DMD Pennsylvania & South New Jersey

Matthew Freedman, DMD Orthodontics

Robert Friedman, DMD New York

Erin Shanahan, DMD Illinois

Matt Haluch, DDS Massachusetts & Connecticut

Scott Schoen, DDS Arkansas

DCA INSIDER THE ANNIVERSARY ISSUE

Bring us the best. How does it work?

How will the bonus be paid?

As the number of offices affiliated with DCA continues to grow, we have an ever-increasing need for great team members. Thus, we would like to encourage and reward you for referring qualified candidates who are hired by DCA or any of our affiliated practices.

• For DCA team members, bonuses are paid during the bonus payroll run.

If you refer someone who is eventually hired, you will receive a bonus after their 6-month anniversary is achieved in accordance with the following guidelines: • When applying through the Dental Care Alliance careers website (dcacareers.com) applicant MUST enter your full name under “Referred By”. • Bonuses are paid after the 6-month anniversary is achieved. • DCA team members: You will be ineligible for a referral if the person you refer will be reporting directly to you or if you are the hiring authority for that position. • Referrals of current and former team members are not eligible.

Connect with TEXT HR @linkedin.com/company/dental-care-alliance @dentalcarealliance @dentalcarealliance

• Bonus inquires must be made within twelve months of the new team member’s start date.

How much is the bonus? The value of the bonus varies depending on the position filled. (Part-time positions receive ½ the bonus amount.)

Level Position

Fulltime Bonus

Parttime Bonus

Dentist

$2,000

$1,000

Hygienist

$1,000

$500

III

Manager (Office and/ or Department), Certified Dental Assistant, Accountant

$750

$375

All Other Positions

$500

$250

Dental Care Alliance 6240 Lake Osprey Drive Sarasota, FL 34240 dentalcarealliance.com

Our stories. Your success. Share your DCA story! Let us know how DCA has helped you in your career journey; which experiences at DCA have exemplified our culture of partnership, alliance, growth, service and support; how are you a DCA ally improving lives and supporting our DCA mission? We want to hear from you! https://www.dentalcarealliance.net/get-started/

Share your DCA story today! Email DCAMarketing@dentalcarealliance.com and be the next DCA success story!

DCA Insider - 30th Anniversary Edition - April 2021

Articles inside

Message from the CEO