David Harris on Forensic Accounting in Dental Practices

July 2025, Ep. 017

Posted on 7/2/2025 by WEO Media

In this enlightening episode, Joseph and David Harris delve into the alarming prevalence of embezzlement in dental practices, discussing the role of forensic accounting, the importance of practice management software, and identifying red flags that may indicate theft. They emphasize the necessity of division of duties, regular financial reviews, and the shared responsibility of staff in maintaining financial integrity. The conversation also highlights the various forms of theft beyond cash and the ethical considerations that can impact a practice's vulnerability to embezzlement. In this conversation, David Harris discusses the complexities of embezzlement in dental practices, emphasizing the psychological aspects of thieves, the importance of thorough background checks, and the connection between drug abuse and theft. He shares insights from his extensive experience investigating embezzlement cases, highlighting the need for proactive measures to prevent theft and the significance of learning from past incidents. David also recounts his personal journey from a troubled youth to a successful investigator, illustrating the importance of understanding the mindset of thieves to better protect practices.

Takeaways

•	There's about a 70% chance of embezzlement in a dentist's career.
•	Forensic CPAs are essential for understanding dental practices.
•	Practice management software can be exploited for theft.
•	Thieves often avoid taking vacations to conceal their actions.
•	Division of duties is crucial in preventing embezzlement.
•	Daily financial reviews can be challenging; monthly reviews are recommended.
•	Shared responsibility among staff can enhance financial oversight.
•	Embezzlement can occur from any position within a practice.
•	Cash is not the only target; checks and credit card payments are also vulnerable.
•	Ethical lapses in practice management can lead to increased theft risk. Embezzlement often goes unnoticed for years, impacting financial stability.
•	Thieves typically steal a small percentage of collections, making it hard to detect.
•	Background checks are crucial in hiring to prevent theft.
•	Drug addiction can lead to increased theft in dental practices.
•	Many thieves have multiple methods of stealing, complicating detection.
•	Half of dentists who experience embezzlement will face it again if lessons aren't learned.
•	Proactive measures are essential to prevent embezzlement before it occurs.
•	The transition to digital systems has made practices more vulnerable to theft.
•	Understanding the psychology of thieves can help in prevention.
•	Proper training and systems can empower dentists to protect their practices.

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