Orthodontic Partners
Orthodontic practice management and support services company.
PE-OWNED
Acquired by Leonard Green & Partners2019-01-29
What Made It Great
Platform for consolidating independent orthodontic practices
What PE Will Likely Do
Orthodontic care quality will decline, with shorter appointment times, higher patient loads, and deferred equipment maintenance
Orthodontic service offerings will be reduced, with fewer specialized treatments and services like oral surgery or TMJ therapy
Orthodontic practices will experience higher staff turnover as experienced orthodontists and nurses are replaced with less qualified personnel
Billing practices will become more aggressive, with upcoding of procedures and diagnosis to maximize reimbursements
Expected Timeline
“0 to 6 months months”
Cosmetic changes to Orthodontic Partners' branding, leadership shuffles, and 'efficiency' announcements
“6 to 12 months months”
Gradual staffing cuts begin, with experienced orthodontists and nurses replaced by less qualified personnel
“12 to 24 months months”
Noticeable declines in service quality, with longer wait times, rushed appointments, and fewer specialized treatments
“24 to 36 months months”
Major issues emerge, such as clinic closures, quality scandals, and patient complaints about declining care
“36+ months months”
Potential bankruptcy, fire sale to another operator, or continued degradation of Orthodontic Partners' services
Similar Cases
Other companies that followed a similar path after PE acquisition
What You Can Do
Actions
Be vigilant for any changes in your orthodontist's care quality, staff, or service offerings
Consider seeking care from independent orthodontists not affiliated with Orthodontic Partners
Advocate for your local community to support and maintain high-quality, affordable orthodontic care
Alternatives
Community-focused healthcare
Integrated managed care consortium