Message from the CEO

Nothing commends success as much as longevity, and 30 years for a company is a remarkable milestone. I want to recognize DCA’s entry into a very special place, for so few companies can make it past just a few years of operation. 30 years puts the company into some very rarefied air. It is hard to believe the circuitous route the company has traveled but it did, and we are all very grateful to be part of this unique organization and recognize its awesome legacy. Magnifying the accomplishment of operating for 30 years is the fact that the 29th year of DCA’s existence was one of inconceivable and unprecedented challenge, not just for the company, but the entire field of dentistry. Now, looking at 2020 in the rearview mirror, it severely tested the organization and our team, and we are all stronger for it. Although we are well into 2021 and still grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic and its continued effects, at least there is now an optimism and enthusiasm that there is a tangible end in sight. Now in our 30th year of operation and reflecting over the past year, we can take stock of what will change because of COVID. For

DCA here are few predictions of post-COVID change:

1. We will continue to lead the field of dentistry in critical areas of patient accessibility and experience. This is a significant competitive advantage. The past year created additional impediments for patient access in all of dentistry. Ease of access and assurance of patient safety are essential advantages DCA does and will continue to offer.

2. Analytics and the use of data are an integral part of how we manage the company at every level of service. Our rapid and effective exit from the early 2020 COVID shutdown was successfully executed because we had the benefit of data and analytics that guided us in decisive ways. Data and analytics are a key competitive advantage for DCA.

3. The pace of affiliations will increase over the remainder of 2021. There are numerous reasons— tax changes under a new administration, postCOVID practice burnout, PPE supply issues, to name a few. The industry recognizes that DSOs generate heighted success in times of crisis. Our footprint will ambitiously expand in our 30th year and beyond.

4. Listening and responding to the voice of the patient is essential to our continued evolution as an organization. The COVID crisis has magnified the criticality of this. Because we now effectively listen and respond to the issues and opinions of patients, we have improved access. During the past months this has been, at times, a painful process but the ability to effectively heed and respond to patient perspectives is essential.

The past year and our 30th year demonstrate two fundamental attributes of DCA— “Stronger together” and “Stronger than ever”.

I am very grateful to be part of this company and celebrate the legacy and mission of DCA for the next 30 years.

Jerry Rhodes

Chief Executive Officer, Ally since 2017