Dr. Lee Hickling and Dr. Kate Kerr-Lawson

Dr. Lee Hickling and Dr. Kate Kerr-Lawson of Kincardine, Ontario's practice has recently been chosen by the ODA as a model practice. Together with only seven other offices in the province, they have assisted the ODA in compiling a practice management handbook. This handbook is being developed to assist other dentists (especially new graduates) in effective office management techniques.

What a tremendous achievement! Both Dr. Hickling and Dr. Kerr-Lawson unquestionably claim that a large amount of their success is due to their experience with Transitions Group.

"The team at Transitions Consulting Group know what they are doing. The systems that they put in place absolutely work."

It all began in 1993 when a frustrated Lee Hickling called Transitions. Like many of his colleagues, Lee felt he was working harder and enjoying it less. He was not happy with the service his office was giving his patients, he was not happy with the returns he was receiving from the practice and he did not know how to change it. He and his staff of three were doing the best they could but were simply unable to make it all come together.

With stress levels increasing rapidly, Lee decided to phone the Transitions Consulting Group for a consultation. Transitions did an extensive review of Lee's practice and provided him with not only a plan allowing him to have the practice he wanted, but also helped him implemented the plan.

The changes came quickly. According to Lee, "the money was great but that was secondary. It was so great to see the office running smoothly - we eliminated an incredible amount of stress. It really is nice to know that we are doing absolutely everything for the patients. I did not feel that way before we had the help of Transitions."

As his practice began to flourish, Lee needed more space and more help to look after his patients. Lee doubled his office space in late 1993 and began a partnership with Kate in the spring of 1994. Shortly after Kate and Lee formed their partnership, Ontario Hydro the major employers in the area announced they would be reducing their workforce by several thousand. For Lee and Kate this meant that their patient base could decrease by ten to fifteen percent. Even with this unforeseen development, Kate and Lee have not only met, but have exceeded their goals. From an original staff of four, the office now employs a team of 12, including a treatment coordinator who helps with case presentation, and an expanded hygiene team who deliver over 80 hours of hygiene services each week.

Kate and Lee anticipate that 1999 will be their best year ever! Both Dr. Hickling and Dr. Kerr-Lawson deserve a lot of credit for making their dreams become a reality. It has paid off not only for them but also for their patients. As they both commented, "patients like to receive the extra attention we give them - they always comment on the terrific service."

Both Lee and Kate have experienced a tremendous amount of change, but their dedication and leadership has brought their practice to the next level. Congratulations on a job well done!