In this episode of the Business of Dentistry podcast, Les Jones sits down with Manish Chitnis to talk about one of the biggest decisions a dentist can make – converting from NHS to private dentistry.
Manish Chitnis is a practice owner with more than 15 years’ experience and five practices across Hampshire and Dorset. In this podcast, he shares the story behind the move, starting with the growing pressures of running a mixed practice.
From financial strain to team burnout, he paints a clear picture of the challenges that made staying in the NHS unsustainable. But it wasn’t just about numbers. It was about doing the right thing for his team, his patients, and the future of his business.
He talks candidly about the fears that came with the decision: Would the community understand? Would patients stay? Would the team be on board? With support from Practice Plan, Manish and his wife made the move.
The result? Within just six weeks, the practice had hit its target. Manish reflects on the relief and pride that came with that response, and how it reaffirmed their decision to put people and quality first.
How does transitioning from NHS to private affect patients?
Manish also discusses the difference it’s made to the team and the patient experience. Dentists who were once seeing over twenty patients a day now see eight or nine, allowing for more time, and a calmer, more fulfilling work environment.
Throughout the episode, Manish reflects on the emotional side of the journey, the importance of planning, and the value of having the right support. He also shares what life looks like on the other side: more time with patients, better quality care, and a happier, more fulfilled team.
Listen in to hear how Manish navigated the conversion, what he learned along the way, and why he has only one regret (he wishes he’d done it sooner).
This year, Practice Plan celebrates 30 years of welcoming practices into the family, helping them to grow profitable and sustainable businesses through the introduction of practice-branded membership plans.
If you’re considering your options away from the NHS and are looking for a plan provider who will hold your hand through the process at a pace that’s right for you, you can start the conversation with Practice Plan today by calling 01691 684165 or to book your one-to-one NHS to private conversation at a date and time that suits you, just visit practiceplan.co.uk/nhsvirtual.
If you’d like to find out more about introducing a plan, and how Practice Plan can help you, visit practiceplan.co.uk/nhs.
This article is sponsored by Practice Plan.
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