We are shining the spotlight on Leanna Foy, Practice Manager at Spruceland Family Dental Care in Prince George, British Columbia. Leanna tells us about her journey in the dental industry, promoting change in the office to support success and growth, and the importance of having confidence in your skills.
How long have you been a Practice Manager with Spruceland Family Dental Care?
I have been a part of the Spruceland Family Dental Care team for four years.
Can you tell us about your career path, from what you wanted to be as a child to where you are now?
I started my career as a Certified Dental Assistant at a small practice in 2001. Soon after, I transitioned to working at the front desk and later took on the role of Practice Manager. During that time, I also taught the Dental Administration course at the College of New Caledonia for five years. My childhood dream was to become a teacher. Dentistry was not on my radar until I received orthodontic care in my teens. As a result of that experience, my interest in oral anatomy peaked.
What do you enjoy most about coming to work?
I would have to say my incredible team, who I view as my family. It is great to watch each team member grow professionally and personally. Additionally, providing our patients with excellent dental care and healthy smiles is extremely rewarding. I love that we can lead and promote changes in our office to support success and growth. It makes each day challenging, engaging, and fulfilling.
How has COVID-19 impacted you, your role, and the practices?
The pandemic was overwhelming for everyone. However, we learned to cope and adapt to changes to provide our patients with the best optimal care while adhering to restrictions to keep everyone safe. We strive to provide our patients and team with the confidence that their health and safety remain our top priority. Staffing has been one of the most significant challenges over the last couple of years, but being prepared for constant changes in the workplace and supporting the tour team has helped me grow in my role as a practice manager.
What does a great patient experience mean to you?
A great patient experience begins with the initial phone call with our patient coordinators and continues with excellent care from our dental associates and clinical staff. We provide patients with exceptional care by addressing oral, financial, or physical concerns. Each patient should leave satisfied with the service provided throughout their appointment.
What’s next for you in your career?
I always enjoy tackling challenges, learning, and sharing my knowledge and experience with others. I would love to help dentalcorp onboard new dental practices in the network.
What advice do you have for dental professionals starting their careers?
It is important to like what you do when you start. With time, you will love everything about your role once you become confident with your skills and knowledge. You will also see your job as a career with incredible rewards and opportunities as you will contribute to patients' overall health, as well as the success of the practice.
Anything else you’d like to add?
I’m so grateful to have joined Spruceland Family Dental Care and to have the opportunity to work with our other Practice Managers, our support team, and dentalcorp.
