Forbes Innovation How Cloud-Based Dental Software Can Help Create Scalable Growth During Economic Uncertainty Eric Giesecke Forbes Councils Member Forbes Technology Council COUNCIL POST Expertise from Forbes Councils members, operated under license. Opinions expressed are those of the author. | Membership (fee-based) Feb 15, 2023, 09:30am EST | Share to Facebook Share to Twitter Share to Linkedin Eric Giesecke is the CEO of Planet DDS . getty Many patients are returning to their dentists for the first time since the pandemic began. According to the American Dental Association’s Health Policy Institute December 2022 survey, dentists in all care settings reported their schedules are at least 85% full—a noticeable jump from January 2022 , when dental practices reported their schedules at 77% capacity. Although the trend continues to move in the right direction, dental practices still need to grapple with last-minute cancellations, no-shows and not enough patients scheduling appointments. With the industry’s staffing shortage showing no signs of easing and the uncertain economic climate, it’s clear that dental practices need solutions to build organizational resilience while improving the patient experience. Blueprint For Success The good news is that there’s a blueprint for success. One way the dental industry can forge ahead as other industries have is by adopting cloud-based systems and applications. Across many other industries, cloud adoption is approximately 90% . Within healthcare, adoption is also just under 90% . Yet, those of us in the dental industry know that it trails far behind in cloud adoption. But although migrating operations to the cloud seems like a natural path forward for many, some dental practices remain reticent to transition from their legacy server-based systems. Also, many organizations that are cutting back on spending in anticipation of an economic downturn may only see part of the picture without realizing how the initial effort of switching systems and investing in cloud-based software could potentially yield quick returns and boost efficiency. MORE FOR YOU The ‘Backsies’ Billionaire: Texan Builds Second Fortune From Wreckage Of Real Estate Empire He’d Sold Don't Fear Giving Or Receiving Feedback Destination Spirits: The Distillery At Brush Creek Produces Spirits With A Distinct Connection To Its Land Cloud solutions can help dental service organizations (DSOs) and emerging group practices streamline care without taking on the extra expenses required to maintain what often becomes an increasingly complex server-based system. To successfully position themselves for 2023 and beyond, DSOs should consider embracing better infrastructures and operational models that help improve the patient experience and reduce administrative burdens. Three Key Benefits Of The Cloud For DSOs And Groups Cloud-based dental software can offer the following advantages to its users and patients, including DSOs and groups: 1. It helps streamline workflows to reduce administrative burdens for existing staff. Advanced cloud-based systems have back-end tools that centralize data, billing, scheduling and reporting. What’s more, cloud-based platforms can allow authorized personnel to pull reports and manage operations anytime and anywhere—there’s no need to be situated in a central office location. This enables them to make critical, real-time decisions. 2. It could help reduce customer churn and increase loyalty. Many cloud solutions allow DSOs and groups to provide a better patient experience. When referring to a specialist within the DSO, cloud-based applications help unify operations under one umbrella, allowing customers to receive consistent, standardized care. Another way cloud solutions help practices strengthen relationships with patients includes more accuracy when presenting treatment plans and estimates through access to real-time data. This consistency helps DSOs maintain higher patient satisfaction and better retention rates. 3. It can foster organizational growth. With consistent systems reporting across locations, DSO leaders can potentially make better, data-driven decisions to grow and scale their organization through acquisitions and opening new locations. Challenges Of Moving To The Cloud A few concerns can prevent DSO leaders from making the move to the cloud. Two concerns about connectivity are internet speed and reliability. However, as high-speed internet connection has become more reliable and affordable, this is no longer an issue for most organizations. Another challenge that DSOs often need to overcome is the fear of disruption to the day-to-day operations as they transition to the cloud. This is where a trusted and skilled vendor can help deliver a smooth transition in three crucial areas: data and image conversions, training and support. Unlocking Value In The Cloud Given all that’s at stake heading into 2023, practices that consider investing in cloud solutions are positioned to increase their competitive advantage. The next 12 months will bring unforeseen challenges and new opportunities. High-performing practices are poised to pull ahead by concentrating on improved efficiency, staff retention rates and patient experiences, with cloud software as one way to boost their chances. Forbes Technology Council is an invitation-only community for world-class CIOs, CTOs and technology executives. Do I qualify? Follow me on LinkedIn . Check out my website . Eric Giesecke Editorial Standards Print Reprints & Permissions.