Q & A with Dr. Ray McKinley

Posted on 07-08-2011

 

Q: What got you into this specific medical field?
A: My father, Dr. Otis McKinley, was a dentist. As a young man I observed how much he enjoyed his profession. As a result of his influence on my life, as well as all of my 4 brothers, we all became dentists. I am excited to welcome my daughter, Brittany McKinley-Holloway, DDS who will be joining me in practice in July, 2011. She is the first 3rd generation McKinley to join the profession. She is also a graduate of The University of Detroit School of Dentistry.
 
Q: What landed you in your city, and what is it that you like about the neighborhood?
A: I was born and raised in Fraser, MI. My father was very active in the community as Mayor and founded the Fraser Parks and Recreation Department. I live in northern Macomb county and enjoy the home-town feeling of being active in my community. I practiced in Romeo for about 20 years and then moved south to Shelby Township about 15 years ago. I feel that Shelby Township is a thriving community and a central location for the patients I serve. Technology and advancements in dentistry are an important part of the services I offer and this location allows me to be available for patients from the surrounding areas.
 
Q: Where did you receive your undergraduate and professional degrees, and did you participate in any residencies?
A: I received my undergraduate degree from Olivet College, Olivet, MI. I received my Doctorate in Dental Surgery from The University of Detroit, School of Dentistry.
 
Q: Do you belong to any professional associations?
A: I am a member of The Macomb County Dental Association, The Michigan Dental Association, The American Dental Association. I have previously served on The Michigan Dental Association Peer Review, President of the Romeo-Washington Kiwanis Club, President of the Romeo-Washington Chamber of Commerce.
 
Q: What year did you begin practicing?
A: My practice opened in October, 1974
 
Q: What investments in your practice equipment and facilities have you made?
A: I am continuously updating my office and practice with state-of-the-art technology and decorating to best serve the needs of the patients I serve. Thankfully, my staff is not a part of those changes. I work to create an atmosphere for personal growth and development that has resulted in the long term retention of my staff. On average, my staff have been with me for 20 years. Digital Radiographs, Intra-Oral Camera, Electric Handpieces, CEREC, Invisalign.
 
Q: What procedures do you feel your practice excels in above others?
A: Implants (We have an excellent success rate with implants), Cosmetic Dentistry, CEREC, Oral Surgery, Root Canal Therapy, Gold onlays, inlays and crowns. One thing our patients really appreciate is that Dr. McKinley provides ALL services. Patients are rarely referred out of the office. This is convenient and a cost savings to the patients.
 
Q: What are your office hours?
A: Monday 9-5, but generally reserved for out-of-state patients so that we can be sure to have time to complete all services before they fly back home. Tuesday 8-5:30, Wednesday 8:30-6, Thursday 8:30-6. Friday 9-12 and one or two Saturdays per month, generally reserved for large and/or involved procedures.
 
Q: What HMO or PPO providers are you in network with? Do you offer financing?
A: We do not participate in any HMO or PPO. However, Dr. Holloway will be in the near future. We offer financing with CareCredit and accept all major credit cards: AmEx, MC, VISA, Discover
 
Q: Do you accept any government programs or discount cards?
A: We accept the Healthy Kids program
 
Q: What are the most challenging parts of your everyday practice?
A: Unkept appointments are the most expensive part of our overhead. We do not overbook the schedule and so when someone does not show up or cancels without notice, it is very costly.
 
Q: What are the best moments that make it worthwhile?
A: When we complete a cosmetic smile makeover, it brings us to tears. We get amazing feedback from our patients. Letters, notes and emails. We keep them in a book in the reception area for all to see. We also have a Getting to Know Us scrapbook in the front with a bio page on each employee and events we attend. Patients really enjoy it. We consider most of our patients like family, and they feel the same about us.