r/FQHCDentistry

Does anyone ever wonder about the opportunity cost of working for an FQHC? Generally speaking, compared with our private practice colleagues, we make much less. I understand if you take into account benefits, etc. it may be similar, but how close? Here in California, we are making around 150-180k annually. Are we underpaid? What is everyone's long-term plan? Is there any incentive for me to stay if I am not doing loan forgiveness ..

Hi everyone,

I was wondering how common it is for FQHC facilities to only provide the most basic of procedures for their patients: fillings, extractions, cleanings. Is it really rare to find a place that allows for a more broader scope: RCT, dentures, crowns? Also, are there any cons to facilities that provide more procedures?

I'm particularly wondering for Illinois and Wisconsin areas, as those are the places I'm looking to apply. My experience with FQHC is limited to what I've encountered in dental school a few years ago (mainly fillings and extractions).

Thank you all in advance for your help in responding!

Do you guys ever feel bad for the patients, that have commercial dental coverage plans, who unknowingly chose to seek care at FQHC setting?

99% of these patient types don’t know that they are being seen at FQHC, which will change/limit their experience and type of treatments. I swear if this clinic was inside of prison, Patient would still
Show up. No one ever bother to do a simple web search.

I’ve only worked in FQHC and I have a friend who is looking to leave her DSO and come work at an FQHC. I explained that there is no production or collection you have to worry about as the provider. Our productivity is measured off of encounters and the department generates revenue per encounter whatever our negotiated encounter rate is with the state Medicaid. That seems simple to me and it’s likely due to working in this environment for so long. However she can’t wrap her head around the encounter and how we generate revenue. I tried to explain it also by giving an example. “Say you do five fillings in one visit we are only going to get $100 (made up rate for educational purposes) for that encounter.” Am I explaining things correctly? Am I missing something? Cus I’m not sure where the disconnect is for her. How would you all explain how an FQHC generates revenue for dental

I’m burnt out on 5 day 40hr work weeks. Anyone successfully negotiate to work less at their FQHC? I’d like to move down to ~3.5 days / 30hr weeks, still want 401k / health insurance / license fees and CE funds (don’t care about any of the other benefits).

Just curious to hear from fellow FQHC dentists to see the variety.

What are your work hours?

How many patients a day do you typically see (with and without hygiene)?

What are your typical treatment cases like (mainly bread and butter, or a lot of endo/crowns, both)?