Dr Sripal Kumar

‍Q: Dr. Kumar, could you share your background and the challenges you faced before seeking business coaching?

Dr Sripal Kumar: Absolutely. When I first started working with Dental Wealth Builder (DWB), I was an associate dentist working across several practices. I was completing a good number of cases, particularly in basic treatment plans, but I felt something was missing. Despite my clinical skills, I recognised a gap in my ability to leverage them to build a thriving practice fully. I had done some communication courses and was achieving relatively high acceptance rates, but I knew I could do more. I wanted to communicate more comprehensive and larger treatment plans. I reached a point where I needed to explore new strategies and systems from those who had successfully navigated similar paths in the dental profession. The COVID-19 pandemic also presented its challenges, but it provided an opportunity for me to reflect on and reassess my career trajectory. That's when I decided to seek coaching from Drs. Rahul and Bhavna Doshi at Dental Wealth Builder.

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Q: What specific strategies and tools had the most significant impact on your practice?

Dr Sripal Kumar: One of the most transformative aspects of the DWB program was understanding the entire patient journey, from the initial phone call to the outcome. The training on the importance of that first interaction, where we learned to use specific alignment statements and maintain a solution-oriented approach. This set the tone for a welcoming and professional experience right from the start. The handover process to the Treatment Coordinator (TCO) was another crucial element. It helped in making patients feel valued and understood even before they sat in the dentist's chair. The focus was on creating a seamless journey for the patient, ensuring that they felt comfortable and informed at every stage.

Another critical aspect was the emphasis on understanding the patients' primary concerns and motivations. I learnt specific techniques and tools that subsequently became invaluable for years to come. This knowledge allowed us to tailor our communication and services to meet their particular needs. We also learned the art of managing body language and delivering treatment plans in a way that instilled confidence and trust. The concept of solution-focused communication resonated deeply with me. It shifted the way I viewed the case acceptance process, making it less about selling and more about genuinely helping patients achieve their desired outcomes.

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Q: How have your patients benefited from the changes implemented?

Dr Sripal Kumar: Patients have definitely benefited from the changes we've implemented. The structured patient journey ensures that they receive a consistent and high-quality experience from the moment they contact the practice. This has not only improved patient satisfaction but also increased our case acceptance rates. The feedback received from patients often highlights how well they feel cared for and understood, which is a direct result of the training we received.

The program also emphasised the importance of communication, not only with patients but also within the team. This has created a more cohesive and supportive environment, which patients can sense and appreciate. The team is better equipped to handle patient inquiries, address concerns, and provide a personalised experience. This holistic approach has been crucial in establishing a loyal patient base and a positive reputation within the community.

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Q: How did you develop a growth mindset and adopt proactive behaviours?

Dr Sripal Kumar: The growth mindset developed through the DWB program was instrumental in this growth. It involved a lot of introspection and a deep dive into what I truly wanted from my career and life. Bhavna helped me identify and dismantle any self-imposed barriers that were holding me back. It wasn't just about professional growth; it was also about personal development. Understanding the importance of health, well-being, and self-care was a big part of this journey. I was encouraged to adopt positive habits and align my daily actions with my long-term goals.

I resonated with the value of continuous learning and adaptation. It wasn't just about acquiring knowledge; it was about applying it and being open to change. This proactive approach extended beyond my professional life into my personal life, helping me maintain a better work-life balance. The emphasis on strategic thinking and planning has been invaluable, especially now that I am a practice owner. Knowing how to anticipate challenges and strategise effectively has made the transition smoother and more manageable.

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Q: What advice would you give to other associate dentists, considering business coaching, especially those on the fence?

Dr Sripal Kumar: My advice to any dentist considering business coaching is to leap. If you're on the fence, it's likely because you recognise a need for change or growth, but aren't sure where to begin. The proper coaching provides the tools and guidance necessary to bridge that gap. The insights and strategies you gain from a program like DWB are invaluable. They help you not only to grow your practice but also to grow personally. Your investment will pay dividends far beyond the financial cost. It's about equipping yourself with the skills and mindset necessary to succeed in a highly competitive and ever-changing field. Both Bhavna and Rahul served as invaluable sounding boards, helping me identify potential paths and greatly enhancing my decision-making process. Bhavna has many times pointed out that we only have so much time in our careers, so it's essential to make the most of it. This particular coaching program will not only maximise your potential but also help you leverage opportunities due to its dual experience in the industry.

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Q: What are the key lessons you took away from the DWB program?

‍Dr Sripal Kumar: My most valuable key lessons that I continue to use daily can be summarised into three main areas:

1. Sales Process Mastery: Understanding and being comfortable with the sales process was a significant shift. It changed my perception from seeing it as a necessary evil to viewing it as an essential part of delivering high-quality patient care. The program demystified the concept of selling and reframed it as providing valuable solutions to patients.

2. Vision and Foundation: Setting a clear vision for my practice and aligning every aspect of the business to this vision was another critical lesson. This includes everything from team alignment to patient journey mapping. Having a clear vision has been essential in making strategic decisions that support long-term growth and success.

3. Continuous Growth and Balance: The program taught me the importance of balancing professional growth with personal well-being. It's not just about financial success but also about achieving a fulfilling and sustainable career. This lesson has helped me prioritise my time and focus on what truly matters, both in my practice and in my personal life.

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Q: Can you describe what influenced your transition from an associate to a principal dentist?

Dr Sripal Kumar: The transition from being an associate to a principal dentist was a significant leap, and the DWB program was pivotal in that process. Our foundational work, especially around setting a vision and aligning team values, played a crucial role. As an associate, I was limited by the environments in which I worked. As a principal, I now have the freedom to shape the practice according to the standards and values I believe in. This has enabled me to establish a team culture that aligns with the growth and quality of care we strive to provide.

Owning a practice brings a whole new set of challenges, but the skills and knowledge gained from the DWB program have been invaluable. The program prepared me for the realities of practice ownership, from managing finances to leading a team. The strategic frameworks we developed have been instrumental in navigating the complexities of running a practice. It's also been gratifying to implement these strategies and see the positive impact on both patient satisfaction and practice growth.

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‍Q: Finally, how do you define growth now, and how has your approach changed?

Dr Sripal Kumar: Growth now, to me, means much more than just financial gain. It's about creating a practice that is both fulfilling and professionally rewarding, as well as personally enriching. It's about achieving a balance where I can deliver the best possible care to my patients, lead a motivated and happy team, and still have time for personal pursuits. The DWB program has redefined my approach to growth, focusing on building a sustainable and rewarding practice. It's not just about expanding services or increasing revenue; it's about doing so in a way that aligns with my values and vision. This holistic approach has made my work more meaningful and my practice more resilient to the challenges that come with running a business.