How Smiles Change Lives

What can be said to a patient who cannot afford braces due to financial constraints within their family? Fortunately, there are resources available to help. On today's episode, we'll introduce you to Smiles Change Lives, a non-profit organization dedicated to making braces accessible to children. For 27 years, Smiles Change Lives has helped countless children achieve healthy, beautiful smiles. The Vice President of Operations, Alexis Barclay, will delve into the program's details and explain how you can apply. We will also hear from Dr. Victoria Lynskey, an orthodontist with a decade of experience working with Smiles Change Lives. She'll share heartwarming stories about the program's impact and the joy of transforming a child's life through the gift of braces. Tune in and discover how Smiles Change Lives can bring a brighter future to children in need.

IN THIS EPISODE:
[0:00] Dr. Leon sets up the scenario of a boy needing braces and a family who cannot afford them
[5:10] Alexis explains how Smiles Change Lives is different than other nonprofits in this space
[6:52] Alexis shares his music background playing electric bass in Kansas City
[8:08] Alexis describes how they vet families to be eligible for Smiles Change Lives and how they help when they do not qualify
[10:47] Alexis talks about the progression of qualifications for Smiles Changes Lives
[13:47] Discussion of how the orthodontist participates in the program
[15:22] Dr. Victoria Lynsky shares her positive experiences with Smiles Change Lives
[18:01] The process of signing up with Smiles Change Lives
[20:59] Alexis discusses what he sees in the future for Smiles Change Lives

KEY TAKEAWAYS:
[4:53] Smiles Change Lives has been in business for 27 years, and during that time, they have learned what not to do, let alone everything to do to support their providers and their patients
[7:49] There is a strategy Smiles Change Lives uses to work with families who can’t financially afford braces. It begins with reviewing tax returns
[10:26] The completion rate of successful orthodontic work is 99% when the patient pays something out of pocket. It also provides leverage for the parent who pays the bill but empowers them, knowing they did this for their child.

RESOURCE LINKS
People + Practice - Website
Leon - Email
Amy - Email
People + Practice - Email
Smiles Change Lives - Website
Alexis Barclay - Email


BIOGRAPHY: Alexis Barclay
Raised across the pond in North London, Alexis moved to the US when he was just 17 years old. After living in Florida, he eventually made his way to Kansas City, where he’s been ever since.

In 2007, Alexis joined Smiles Change Lives, working at its sister company, Embrace Smiles, a promotional products company. From there, he served as Director of Provider Services for 11 years. Currently, he serves as Vice President of Operations.

When he’s not at work, you can find Alexis playing bass with one of Kansas City’s notable bands. He resides in Riverside, MO, with his wife, Brooklyn and three kids.


QUOTES:
“We work with our orthodontists, figuring out what the best thing for the practices are. We are very ortho-centric. We want to make sure that we are doing the best by our providers because the bottom line is, without our providers, we can't do what we do.” - Alexis Barclay
“We ensure we are not wasting your time with someone who could pay otherwise. Most people looking for Smiles Change Lives are just thankful to get something, and if they are not within our guidelines, they will reach out to me and ask, can you find me an affordable orthodontist? “Alexis Barclay