Dr. P. Rory O’Neill answers questions about the career path he took after finishing his residency...

2005 Annual Meeting Student Event
STARTING AS AN INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR

Below is an interview with Dr. P. Rory O’Neill, D.M. D., who practices in North Andover, Massachusetts, and completed his periodontal residency at Tufts University in 1978.
Photo

What is the most rewarding part of what you do everyday?

I enjoy making decisions and I love helping my fellow man. My patients and students are wonderful, for without them my life would be exceedingly dull.

What was your ideal plan after graduation?

To enter private practice and engage in teaching.

What realities did you encounter?

I was able to attain my goals. First I worked as an independent contractor on a part time basis and got ripped off. Left me with a very bad taste in my mouth.

What appealed to you about becoming an independent contractor?

During a transition period of my life, I was asked by colleagues to work in their offices, this bought me time in which to assess the area I was looking to set up an office.

What variables influenced your decision of becoming an independent contractor?

Immediate earning capacity, immediate patient load and no limitation on my ability to compete in the area (i.e. no restrictions).

How did you go about searching for an independent contractor’s position?

Local knowledge and journal advertising.

Did location factor into this situation?

Definitely so!

Please explain your financial compensation arrangement, using real or fictitious figures.

It varied from one to the next.

No paid holidays, pay your own liability, continued education and journals. No compensation for attending C.E courses. You are just a hired hand, without benefits. Use or be used. No health or retirement benefits and the dental assistant has a far better package than the I.C. has.

Do you believe this is a good form of practice?

Bottom line…no, I do not, unless it benefits the recent grad in making up his mind as to what he wishes to do; and maybe it is good for some who do not wish the responsibility of having their own practice, responsibilities, etc. However, for someone transitioning out of practice it may be ideal.

Why is the independent contractor often frowned upon in the profession?

Piecemeal worker with little or no loyalty.

How did this experience affect your plan and decisions about your career and future?

Get out of it A.S.A.P.

What risks were involved?

None really. Just time. Maybe getting involved with an office of bad reputation.

What is your situation now?

Private practice and part time teaching….ideal!

What resources (i.e., people, publications, groups) did you find the most helpful?

Colleagues, teachers and local journals.

What suggestions do you have for individuals transitioning into an independent contractor arrangement?

Use it to your benefit. Get a contract and have everything written in it.

What was your biggest mistake as a new practitioner?

Staying as an I.C. too long in one practice.

How many different offices where you performing periodontal procedures at?

5 or 6.

What is the most important thing you have learned?

In business it is best to be your own boss and be very wary of others especially if they sweet talk you.

Find Out More

Student/Educator Links

What's New


2012 Annual Meeting Information and Registration

Share