This is one of the most confusing systems in our profession. Many offices spell out vague guidelines for their team to use. Many stipulate that they can have dental coverage for “immediate” family members. The definition of “immediate” family needs to be spelled out so misunderstandings are limited.

Many offices provide dental care for the entire dental team. This system can cause problems within the team if one team member has had some significant neglect. A team member who is not at a very high level of oral health will receive a lot of care and a large benefit.  While a team member who has taken great care of their mouth may only require minimal dental treatment and not use this benefit.

Consider providing the same amount of benefit for all of the employees. You can provide a consistent dollar amount each year to be used by your team. For example, you could stipulate that you will provide them with $2000.00 of dental treatment each year. They can use those dollars for their care or for their immediate family. Once they use up the thousand dollars, they will be responsible for paying the remaining portion in cash.

Part time employees are typically not entitled to any benefits. You will need to determine what you would like to provide for them, if anything.

Please know that we are not discouraging benefits to your team. In fact, we encourage them! We simply encourage you to put systems and structures in place that are equitable for all of your team members.

Don’t forget the compensation benefits that don’t show up on your employee’s paycheck. These items are called “Hidden Paycheck” items and your dental care benefits are only one example of this.

Employees may overlook the benefits provided to them by their employers. By incorporating these items into your compensation review, it allows the employee to see the whole compensation picture for what it really is. Many times the hidden paycheck items can add up to 35 percent of their earnings, and most of it is tax-free.

Example of a Compensation Review – Preliminary Offer

Annual Base Salary Offered                 $__________________

Employer Matching FICA                    $__________________

Profitability Pay when Available      $___________________

Medical Premium Contribution         $ ___________________

Pension Plan Contribution                   $ ___________________

Total Salary                                                 $___________________

 The items listed below will not show up on your paycheck. But they are additional benefits provided to you by the doctor.

Uniform Allowance                             $ ___________________

Dental Care Allowance                       $ ___________________

Jury Duty – Bereavement Pay        $ ___________________

Parking Garage Fees                            $ ___________________

Continuing Education                         $ ___________________

Total Compensation $____________________________

Pension Participation Date ___________________

 

Coaching Department; The Schuster Center