Working Interviews: Genius or Total Disaster?

In this episode of "Just a Couple of Dentists," we dive into some hot topics that have been stirring up discussions in various dental Facebook groups. 

We kick off the conversation by addressing a controversial question: Should dentists pay for their hygienists' license renewals? I share my perspective that it’s not the dentist's responsibility to cover these costs, as the license belongs to the hygienist and is essential for their employment. Eric agrees, emphasizing that this practice could lead to complications if the hygienist decides to leave shortly after the renewal.

Next, we tackle the contentious issue of working interviews for dentists. I express my strong opposition to this practice, arguing that it undermines the respect and trust that should exist in the dentist-patient relationship. Eric shares his experiences with working interviews, noting that while they can provide insight into a candidate's interpersonal skills, they often create an awkward environment that doesn't accurately reflect a dentist's capabilities. We discuss the potential pitfalls, including billing complications and malpractice concerns, ultimately concluding that better interviewing techniques could replace the need for working interviews.

The conversation then shifts to the ongoing debate about 1099 versus W-2 classifications for dentists. We break down the IRS criteria for determining employment status and highlight the risks associated with misclassifying employees to save on payroll taxes. Eric and I agree that many practices are skirting the issue, which could lead to significant penalties if audited.

We also touch on a recent ADA resolution allowing foreign-trained dentists and dental students to perform hygiene without a license, which has sparked concern among hygienists about job security. While I express skepticism about whether this will effectively address the workforce shortage, we both agree that the dental profession must adapt to changing circumstances.

Finally, we discuss the policies surrounding team members clocking in for various scenarios, such as office lunches, personal dental work, and cleaning family members' teeth. We emphasize the importance of clear expectations and written policies to avoid misunderstandings and ensure fairness in the workplace.

Join us for this engaging discussion as we navigate the complexities of dental practice management and share our insights on how to foster a positive and productive work environment. Whether you're a dentist, hygienist, or part of the dental team, there's something in this episode for everyone!