Joseph Shai leveling the dental playing field: Dentistry and the supply of dental equipment and consumables may not be the first industry you think of when you hear the words Black Economic Empowerment. However, as with any other industry in South Africa, the development of the previously disadvantaged in dentistry is key to providing holistic health services across the country. And one man has made it mission to spread the word and level the dental playing field so that all practices are given fair and equal treatment, no  matter where they are placed geographically or even economically. This man is Joseph Shai, the MOH Sales Specialist at Dentsply Sirona, SA’s leading supplier of dental equipment and consumables. One of the mandates the company has set itself to invest in growth, boosting market share and thereby contributing to the national objectives for poverty and inequality reduction through job creation, specifically in dentistry. Joseph points out some differences between dental practices in previously disadvantaged areas and those in more affluent areas. The most marked difference is that in the former, most dentists have two to three practices and no appointments – they run around from one practice to another providing the best, but hurried service to their patients. Meanwhile in the latter, there are group partnerships, with fixed appointments, better equipment and more managed practices. In addition Joseph believes that dentists in the former areas are sorely in need of more business skills, and so is intent on upskilling them and sharing his knowledge with them. “Firstly I must be a consultant to the dentists,” explains Joseph, “I must help them market their business and they must invest in marketing themselves and their services, provide quality services and also skill themselves and use quality and reputable products. “Denstply Sirona, who themselves are focused on empowering dental professionals to provide better, safer and faster dental care, are well placed to assist me with this. I am proud to be part of an organisation such as this – Dentsply Sirona is focussed on helping dental professionals deliver the best possible dental care, for the benefit of their patients and practices today and for years to come.” Joseph is a family man who knows how important it is to set aside time for oneself, one’s family and to have people in your … [Read more...]