THE ADA PRACTICAL GUIDE TO ASSOCIATESHIPS 3 The primary purpose of this publication is to provide dentists with a practical reference focusing on associateship arrangements. The information has been designed to address the concerns of both the associate and the dentist-owner. “Associate” is a term that is used within the dental profession to refer to a wide range of working relationships. It may refer to a partner, someone who simply shares space, an employee or other mutually agreed upon arrangement. In this usage, dentists often refer to their partner or employee-dentist as an “associate.” However, when used in this publication, the term associate refers to a dentist who does not have any ownership or equity in the practice at which he or she is working. It is important to both parties that the prospective associate and the employer (solo dentist, partnership or group practice) understand and agree to the terms of an arrangement. If the arrangement is to be successful, both parties must understand the importance of a fair and equitable arrangement. An associate must recognize that the owner of a practice has invested substantial capital and effort to build it and that bringing in an associate is not without cost. Typically, an associate employee is not required to make any financial investment in the practice and does not assume the same degree of financial risk as the dentist-owner. Therefore, an associate employee should not expect to receive an equal level of income or benefits. Likewise, practice owners must understand that associates expect fair compensation and to be treated in a fair and professional manner. Learning Objectives • Define the term “associate” as used in this publication • Consider the perspectives the owner and associate must have to achieve a fair and equitable arrangement • List some common reasons for becoming an associate • Know the difference between different associateship structures: employee, independent contractor, and time- share/solo group arrangements • Understand the most important things a practice owner should consider before hiring an associate • Learn some frequent causes of why associateships fail Chapter 1: Associateships in General