SUPPORT IS THE KEY TO SUCCESS
In 2008 I celebrated my graduation in Brisbane after completing the Diploma of Practice Management via workshops with UNE Partnerships and the Australian Dental Association Queensland (ADAQ). Completing this course is the best career investment I have made.
It has helped not only me but also my dental practice – Petrie Dental Centre. Due to the great support I received along the way I achieved my goal – that was the key to my success!
I started as a junior dental assistant in 2004 and successfully completed my Certificate III in Dental Assisting through ADAQ. I was studying for the Certificate IV in Dental Radiography when halfway through I received information about the UNE Partnerships ‘Professional Practice Manager Development Program’ at an ADAQ information open day. I shared my concern about studying the two courses at the same time with the staff at ADAQ and UNE Partnerships. Both organisations assured me that with their support and that of my employers I would be able to manage both courses. I decided to give it a go.
Workshop delivery
After enrolling in the Diploma course, I received a set of study notes and a detailed schedule of monthly workshops to be held at ADAQ Brisbane. These workshops would prove invaluable to me and turn out to be a great way to work through the course. It was at these informative workshops that I gained insight into the true meaning of the course I was undertaking.
The presenters explained the content of the course modules in a way that was easy to understand and in a relaxed manner. Every presenter was approachable, both on the day as well as after the workshop via email and phone. Each presenter was highly experienced and confident in the area they were covering and I valued their comments. The lectures were always interesting and held my attention, and I always looked forward to the following one.
The ten modules were worked through in a sequence making the course easy to follow and understand. Assessment criteria and deadlines were clearly outlined and all assessments were submitted online making the process simple.
Networking, feedback and support
Another positive advantage of attending the workshops was the opportunity to mix with other students working in general and specialist dental practices who had similar interests and goals to mine. The networking support at the workshops, the encouragement and guidance from the presenters, and the support I received from my employers were what enabled me to sustain my determination and energy to complete the Diploma of Practice Management within the twelve months while still working full time. The support I received from my employers, fellow staff members, ADAQ and UNE Partnerships was the ultimate key to my success.
The comments and feedback I received from the Assessors guided me and gave me direction throughout the course and the confidence to implement changes in my practice. I found these comments to be clear and concise, always with positive remarks or with suggestions that could be applied to improve my workplace, my dental practice.
Running a successful practice
Throughout the course I always had the feeling that it was designed to motivate and educate me on how I could have a positive effect on the running of the practice. The aim was always to improve the business and make it more successful for the owners.
Since completing the course I feel confident about introducing new plans, strategies and goals into my workplace. I feel that from the information and skills I have gained our practice will be able to move forward in this industry. With the backing of my employers I intend to continue managing my workplace to the absolute best of my ability and with the knowledge I gained from this course I believe I will continue to succeed.
The Diploma course does involve hard work, dedication and commitment but at the end the feeling of success and achievement is a great reward! As I said earlier it was the best investment for my career and has given me much work satisfaction.
The Diploma of Practice Management focuses on the various “management” functions involved in running a successful business. I highly recommend this course to anyone wanting to further their career or to practice owners and dentists who want to expand their business skills and knowledge to enable their practice to grow and succeed in this ever changing industry.
Chelsea Haddon
Practice Manager
Petrie Dental Centre
