Question about first job.

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DrMarioRobles

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I am a foreign-trained dentist about to complete my D4 year in the next six months. I've already passed all my board exams, CDCA exams, etc. Recently, I've been receiving multiple job offers, many of which include sign-on bonuses. However, I've been cautious about signing any contracts, as I’m not in a rush to secure a position. I’m confident in my abilities and can handle most dental procedures independently.

I wanted to reach out to those already working in the field for advice on what a realistic and fair starting pay looks like. I don’t want to devalue the profession by accepting just any offer. Some of my friends are signing with Heartland Dental, which is offering 25% of production, but from what I’ve read, that’s considered low. What is a reasonable percentage of production one should negotiate for?

I’ve also heard concerns from Heartland dentists about going into the negative some months because of unpaid claims or other office-related issues. My perspective is that the office owner assumes more financial risk, which justifies them earning more. However, if I agree to a contract specifying a certain percentage of my work, I expect to be paid that percentage regardless of whether the insurance pays the office or not. To me, it’s the office's responsibility to manage insurance claims effectively. I don’t think it’s fair for the dentist to bear the burden of unpaid claims when we’ve fulfilled our end of the job.

Am I off base here? I’d really appreciate a reality check on my expectations and advice on what I should be negotiating for in terms of compensation. Thank you in advance!

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Be careful because there is a difference between production, adjusted production, and collections. I stayed away from the DSOs. My job offer right out of school with a private practice was the higher of $700 per day guarantee or 32% adjusted production. About a year into it I negotiated that up to 35% adjusted production. I make over $400k per year at 35%. I would NEVER accept a job for 25%. You’re worth more than that.
 
Be careful because there is a difference between production, adjusted production, and collections. I stayed away from the DSOs. My job offer right out of school with a private practice was the higher of $700 per day guarantee or 32% adjusted production. About a year into it I negotiated that up to 35% adjusted production. I make over $400k per year at 35%. I would NEVER accept a job for 25%. You’re worth more than that.
Thank you so much for the information. I'll take some time to research the differences between the three options you mentioned. I really appreciate your clarification—I was starting to feel like I was the one who was confused!
 
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