Dentist

Genny Skarlat runs one of the largest dental practices in Adelaide. She oversees five clinics and 36 dentists in her role as general manager of Health Partners’ dental business.

Working in the busy administrative role with the private health insurance company has evolved since she joined Health Partners as a dentist in 1989.

“Interacting with so many dentists and support staff requires skills that operate over a wide range of personalities and dental disciplines,” Dr Skarlat says.

“One of the most important skills in running a successful dental business is the ability to be highly organised and attuned to the company’s growth.”

After more than 26 years in dentistry, she strongly advocates the opportunities in the profession.

A shortfall of up to 1500 oral health providers, dentists and para-dental personnel is expected by 2010, research from the National Advisory Committee on Oral Health has revealed.

In addition to dentists who provide specialist services, the number and range of dental services has grown steadily.

“Dentists enjoy a diverse, technology-driven profession with numerous areas of service and expertise,” Dr Skarlat says.

The expected retirement of baby boomer dentists will also coincide with increasing demand for dental services in the ageing population.

“Dentists will be overwhelmed by the requirements of a growing number of patients wishing to retain their natural teeth well into their senior years,” Dr Skarlat says.

“Consequently, the dentistry workforce will have to expand to meet demand in the near future.”

Dr Skarlat says this means it is “certainly the time to consider a career in dentistry”. “It is one of the most rewarding professions to pursue,” she says.

Through education, diagnosis and treatment, dentists provide essential health services.

“There is a strong link between oral health and general health.”

Working in dentistry also gives practitioners a “sense of personal satisfaction from helping others”.

Dr Skarlat’s job, apart from long hours, has allowed her to develop managerial skills, including organising training and development.

“Interacting with many dentists and support staff requires skills to bridge a wide range of personalities and dental disciplines,” she says.

Dr Skarlat also has a long association with the Australian Army Reserve as a dental officer. Based at Keswick barracks, she has been attached to the Third Health Support Battalion since 2005.

With the Dental Corps, she has trained as a logistics officer, “which has been an asset to my managerial position with Health Partners”.

Dr Skarlat also helps run internet bookings and accounts for a small tourism business in the Clare Valley which she owns with her husband.

“I am also computer literate and am undertaking a correspondence course in design and digitising in machine embroidery,” she says.

After graduating in dental surgery from Adelaide University in 1981, Dr Skarlat worked in private practice in regional Victoria and Melbourne as well as Gawler and Adelaide.

She was senior dentist with Health Partners before becoming general manager dental in 1991.