Pros
1) Patient communication is key! As providers, sometimes we take this for granted, but connection with our patients is ultimately what guides our success. PDS really supports this ideal, because truly, it is an ideal.
2) Continuing Education: in order to be the very best dental providers we can be, it is imperative that we stay on top of dentistry's ever changing waves as well as continue our pursuit of learning and personal growth. PDS really supports clinicians in this respect and the courses are taught by tremendous doctors whose success is evident in their own lives and practice.
3) Potential to become an owner dentist! This should be every clinician's ultimate goal in this wonderful company. Enjoying life outside the dental office AND having autonomy (YES, YOU DO HAVE AUTONOMY IN PDS!!) as an owner dentist? Sign me up!
4) There is always someone you can call, email, text, or visit in person for help. Always. The network that exists within PDS amongst providers and management is pretty spectacular. I have met the most friendly, wonderful, supportive colleagues within this model and believe I am making connections and friends for life. I have felt that everyone really wants to see the other succeed. There are no secrets amongst clinicians and providers, knowledge is shared and success is encouraged.
5) I love having personal goals and PDS encourages this as well, and not in any way that is pressured or forced.
6) As a clinician you can practice the way you want to practice-- if a particular area is not your forte or strength (ie. endo or OS), there is no pressure to pursue this, but motivation to excel in the areas where you feel strongest, but if you want to improve in areas of weakness, there is always someone to help! I think integrated specialties are KEY in this and I have learned a tremendous amount from the fantastic specialists that come to our office.
I really could go on and on, but would end on this: this IS a supportive company. They encourage growth, continued success, compensation is fair, and goals are realistic. I plan on being a part of this organization until past retirement because I really believe in the model.
Cons
In any large organization there are imperfections, but overall, PDS has truly blown my expectations, positively, out of the water. There really aren't many cons, but just a few that I would point out:
1) At times it can be difficult to navigate the hierarchy of regional managers/partners, etc.
2) If you are practicing in a more remote location and driving to areas where courses for continuing education are held, it can be quite a commute.
