Sacramento Office Manager Utilizes Regional Occupation Program

DiMariano Dentistry has been serving Sacramento county for decades - literally. Dr. Jeff DiMariano started the Sacramento office in 1981. His daughter, Shaina, then joined him in 2004, opening her own practice in Folsom. Front Office Manager, Brittany Bates, fields their administrative duties. She trained through a Sacramento County Office of Education Regional Occupation program. After completing the program, she embarked on an internship with the DiMariano practice, which led to her current position.

What does your current job entail?

"Reception management, patient management, records management, insurance management, and billing."

What is your favorite part of your daily duties?

"Patient interaction. We have great patients within our practice and I have been able to build a professional,  yet friendly relationship with them. When they come into the office it's as if I were catching up with friends."

Do you feel your education prepared you for your current role?

"Knowing dental terminology, teeth numbers, teeth surfaces and procedures have been a huge help. The terminology is  used on the daily by doctors and staff as well as the insurance companies. It's great to be able to translate that dental lingo for patients. It makes it easier to understand when discussing appointments and treatment planning with them.  School definitely gave me the foundation for working in a dental office, but I learn something new weekly through the  work experience. When it comes to customer service skills, I don't think school can teach you that. You either have it or  you don't."

Do you have any advice for people wanting to pursue a similar career?

"[You] must be a team player. In order for the office to operate smoothly and successfully, the staff must work as a unit. I believe this field requires flexibility and adaptability as the schedule can change multiple times throughout the day."

Christopher Millard is a freelance writer and cultural critic whose music reviews can be found on Examiner.com. He also works as a publicist for Valence Communications Group and is a contributor to the health and wellness magazine, Hybrid. Chris currently resides in Sacramento, California.