North Texas Dentistry Volume 8 Issue 1 NTD 2018 ISSUE 1 DE | Page 25

for a patient base is essential. Behavioral considerations like interpersonal skills and communication are part of the success of a relationship-based practice. Timing and financial considerations play a large role in buyers identifying their op- portunity as well. Working with a sea- soned transition consultant allows for the vetting of these necessary components. Some “practice brokers” seek a transac- tional experience for a changing of the guard with a processing of documents and a single strategy for its completion that is driven strictly by financial and legal considerations. That transactional mindset is what you have been working to avoid in your practice for a career, so why would you consider growing your practice or ending your career with a phi- losophy that goes against the grain of who and what your practice has become? Why not become curious about practice transition strategies like a co-discovery experience of what best fits your practice model and philosophy? Asking more questions and learning more about what makes your practice a successful legacy is the first step. Transition consultants offer a complete approach to evaluate your relationship-based practice that seeks all the financial and legal consider- ations plus works to transfer the techni- cal, behavioral and business culture for continuity in your practice and security for your future built on strategic solu- tions. Finding a transition consultant with successful business experiences helps make them uniquely qualified to collaborate with you to develop your strategic transition or expansion solu- tion. Whether you are a specialist or a general dentist, seek a consultant that will per- form a comprehensive exam on your practice and report the findings with a thorough and professional strategy to meet your wants an d needs. Developing a legacy plan for your relationship- based practice model that creates opportunity and security for your next phase must be intentional. Are you ready to discover the best strategies for you and the future of your practice? . Lynne Gerlach, DDS, FICD, FACD Dr. Lynne Spencer Gerlach earned her status as a successful restorative dentist and businesswoman in her 26+ year career practicing in Plano. From startups to partnerships and solo private practices, her experience in transforming businesses is a passion. Dr. Lynne’s entrepreneurial experiences in multiple businesses have shaped her desire to assist others with business strategy and growth. She has been helping doctors in their transition and exit planning needs since 2013 with Phase II Dental Transitions in Dal- las. Dr. Gerlach often lectures on Practice Transition topics and writes for dental publications. Dr. Gerlach graduated from Austin College and Baylor College of Dentistry. She completed her Cer- tification in the ADA Kellogg Executive Management Program at Northwestern University in 2014. Dr. Gerlach has served as visiting faculty and a L.D. Pankey Foundation Advisor since 2008 and served on the Board of Directors as well as secretary. She served the Dallas County Dental Society Board of Directors as editor and previously served the Texas Dental Association as part of the Mem- bership Council. She currently serves the Texas DENPAC Board and remains active in organized dentistry. She has been a delegate to the TDA since 2005 and is a fellow in the American College of Dentists, International College of Dentists and a member of ADA, TDA, DCDS, and ADI. She and her husband, Dr. Bill Gerlach have two grown children, Meredith and Creighton. Her hobbies include sports, music, travel, bridge, and cooking. For more information, visit www.phasetwodental.com or call (214) 540-8085. www.northtexasdentistry.com | NORTH TEXAS DENTISTRY 25