Finished Product
On April 1, 2009, the newly named Pine Grove Dental Arts opened its doors to the community, and the response has been very positive. When you walk inside, says Phillips, it’s a relaxing environment, decorated with earth tones and featuring a fireplace that serves both the waiting and treatment areas. Photos of mountains and the doctors’ travels, as well as rocks and art are displayed throughout. “It’s a modern and efficient, and very attractive office,” Long says.
As for other doctors looking to merge a practice or remodel their space, Dr. Comeau says that success is possible with the right people. “When it comes to design and building, hire people who know what they’re doing and get out of the way.” Dr. Schwartz seconds Dr. Comeau regarding the importance of the people you work with, including the doctors themselves. “It’s good to be with other doctors who are of the same mentality. Our facility is a reflection of that.”
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Becoming Partners
Before the doctors went into business together, they built relationships on respect and trust. Dr. Schwartz says that it was important not to hold back anything in the beginning stages. “If you don’t feel comfortable or confident that you can discuss your concerns, it won’t get any easier when you throw money into the mix.”
With the help of a lawyer well-versed in dental practice contracts, Drs. Comeau, Diehl and Schwartz set agreeable terms and mapped out plans for a variety of scenarios, from expansion to buying someone out. For Dr. Comeau, who is in his 60s, the contract also gave him an exit strategy as he nears retirement.
Dr. Diehl says that communication with the others has been key. “If you’re merging practices, it can’t only be your idea that works. You have to be tolerant of other people’s opinions.”
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