We're shining the spotlight on Kim Kearney, Practice Manager at Mayflower Dental Group in Sydney, Nova Scotia. Kim tells us about returning to her hometown of Cape Breton, her open-door policy at work, and the importance of leaning on others for support.
How long have you been a Practice Manager with Mayflower Dental Group?
I have been with Mayflower Dental Group for 11 years. I started as the Assistant to the General Manager and later moved to become the Practice Manager and Treatment Plan Coordinator for both our Mayflower Dental and Bayside Dental practices.
Can you tell us about your career path, from what you wanted to be as a child to where you are now?
I always wanted to work in a clinical environment. After my graduation from St. Francis Xavier University, I enrolled in the Dental Assisting program at Nova Scotia Community College. After my studies, I moved to Alberta and worked in the Dental Claims department at Alberta Blue Cross. Later, I joined their audit team, with a focus on on-site dental claims. Because I was missing home, I decided to return to Cape Breton in 2010. That’s when I began my journey with Mayflower Dental Group.
What do you enjoy most about coming to work?
I love being part of a large, dynamic group of professionals and seeing each member grow personally and professionally. We are patient-focused and ensure our Practices are welcoming and safe. As the Treatment Plan Coordinator, I interact with patients every day to get to know them and help them understand what their treatment involves.
How has COVID-19 impacted you, your role, and the practices?
COVID-19 has taught me to rely on the support and guidance of others and to not worry about things I cannot control. dentalcorp helped us get through the pandemic by providing us with the expertise and supplies needed to re-open safely. One of our practices, Riverside Dental, was selected by the Provincial Dental Board of Nova Scotia to open as one of the province's emergency clinics. We were very proud to have the opportunity to provide emergency services for patients in Cape Breton. It was very rewarding to see our dentists, dental assistants, and administrative team work together to provide care during such challenging times.
What does a great patient experience mean to you?
A great patient experience starts with a friendly greeting at the door, then an excellent clinical service, and a positive checkout with a satisfied and smiling patient. We pride ourselves on treating our patients like family and communicating clearly about the details of their treatment. Our team collaborates well, and there is a lot of laughter in our clinics. Our patients always enjoy visiting.
What's next for you in your career?
I am looking forward to participating in more professional development as it becomes available.
What advice do you have for dental professionals starting their careers?
Spend time in a practice to observe the day-to-day operations and ask many questions. Lean on others for support and use the advice that you will receive from more experienced dental professionals.
