At this time of year, I was looking to what New Year resolutions could lift me up and reignite my enthusiasm, after an extended period of unprecedented times. I have two good ideas and felt they were worth sharing, as just thinking about them made me feel positive.
AAO Tech Select
The first is a project. Those of you doing in-house aligners have convinced me that it is the future. Both for clinical control and financial. But it is a leap to get it started. How to do it and do it right was holding me back. So when the AAO came out with TechSelect early in the summer, I thought it worth checking out. We now have access to “the only comprehensive, unbiased resource for fabricating aligners in-house” and it really seems true. As we move back into professional normalcy, 2022 will be the year it gets implemented, and I know where I’ll go to make it happen. TechSelect is a great member resource.
AAO/Wharton Mastering the Business of Orthodontics
The second idea will give me more immediate satisfaction. This one has me really pumped- the AAO/Wharton Mastering the Business of Orthodontics program. This seems to fill one of the gaping holes in our education-how best to run an orthodontic practice. I’m good at moving teeth but know there is always a need to improve my business skills. A program over eight weeks, at less than a thousand bucks ( if you are an AAO member). Do it on your own time and with an understanding that you will know a lot more about the potential of your practice than you did when you started. So, two New Year’s resolutions that I can really do. I’m already excited for what 2022 will bring!
My last resolution is to be in Miami in May for a real face-to-face awesome AAO Annual Session. It will be three years since we all got together. Can’t wait to see you all there!
Every year at this time I think back on all who continue to make our profession great. This year, I’m thankful for my incredible colleagues who are part of NESO’s leadership. They are some of the most intelligent, curious and dedicated people in orthodontics. Elsewhere in this newsletter we highlight some of these very special leaders; Lee Erickson, Carrie Melita and Renee Pompei. Please take a moment to reach out ant thank them for all they have done and all they still do. Success of boards, including NESO’s, is about having a culture that is open to discussion, collaboration and a desire to move an organization and a profession forward. We have a great Board, and my hope is anyone who is interested in getting involved will take a moment to reach out to me or our ED, Kristin Dunn (kdunn@neso.org). Leadership development is part of what sustains an organization so know we are here to help jump start your leadership career.
Happy Holidays to everyone. Be safe and be well.
John
John Callahan
Trustee- Northeastern Society of Orthodontists
American Association of Orthodontists
315-569-8219