Structuring Practice Transitions to Address the Big Issues Fairly and Ensure Mutual Satisfaction

This lecture will describe the big issues that arise in group practice buy-ins and outright practice sales (and, to a lesser extent, associate employment agreements). Whether you are "Dr. Junior" or "Dr. Senior" you need to be aware of the things that can make or break a long-term relationship. The key is understanding both what the issues are and how they can be structured fairly. Topics for discussion will include: basic terms to include in an associate's employment agreement and why it pays to mention a potential buy-in in the employment agreement; when and how to value an orthodontic practice; how to structure the transaction for fair tax treatment on both sides; allocating compensation and fringe benefits among owners in a group practice; and the consequences of a doctor exiting the group practice. This course will not favor one side or the other, but will present each issue fairly and objectively. Therefore, this is an ideal seminar both doctors in the transition to attend together.

Learning Objectives:

• Evaluate whether an orthodontic practice appraisal is reasonable.
• Determine whether the tax structure of the buy-in/buy-out is appropriate.
• Determine how to fairly compensate co-owners for their clinical production and their investment in the practice.