We all aim for a healthy, thriving dental practice. And nothing keeps a business green and growing like the almighty dollar. Because time is money, a focus on productivity can help you do just that. Here are a few methods you may not have considered to give your business a boost:
Digital Scheduling
Automation is the name of the game in increasing efficiency in many parts of your business. One of the first places to start is with scheduling patient appointments.
A simple online search will yield dozens of software options that will allow patients to book an appointment directly on your website, freeing up an incredible amount of time for your front desk staff members to attend to other matters.
In just minutes, your patients will quickly be able to select a treatment or appointment type and find open time slots conveniently from their computer or mobile device.
Remind, Remind, Remind
Forgotten appointments are one of the largest hits to practice productivity. Consider putting a plan in place to provide email or text reminders for your patients so your chair is never empty. For those patients who are less digitally inclined, a phone call from your office a few days before is an excellent idea.
Listen and Learn
One of the most valuable opportunities for any dental practitioner is listening and learning from feedback. Understandably, many of us find negative reviews and comments hard to hear. However, these bits of information can provide a window into our patients’ perspective.
We all have personal and business-related faults. Don’t take complaints personally, but try to think each comment through from the patient’s perspective. Was it a sour mood, a miscommunication or an unexpected bill that gave a bad impression? How can you and your staff do better for the next patient who is just walking in?
Communicate Internally
Productivity is largely built upon clear communication. Provide numerous opportunities for staff members to reach you with questions throughout the day to keep information flowing. A great way to do this is to start your day with a morning staff meeting.
A quick, standing huddle is excellent for setting the tone and providing motivation for all. Take a few minutes to remind your staff of any practice-wide goals or values, walk through any important daily information and give your staff the chance to speak up with questions or even a few personal anecdotes to boost morale and a sense of team.
When you’re able to communicate effectively as a team you’ll save countless hours in productivity.
As a theme, much of productivity seems to come down to communication and technology. Finding and adapting to one or more of these methods is an excellent start in boosting overall productivity. Here’s to your practice’s success!
