As summer is nearing an end, now is the time of year to ask the following question about your year over year status. Are you on a decline that won’t seem to stop? Is the practice surviving with a flat-line plateau or did you have at least 10-15% growth over last year?
Decline means DO SOMETHING. Plateau means it is time to identify what the barriers to growth are, and growth means to celebrate the progress and keep up the momentum. Below are some tried and true tips that can be done to assure that you THRIVE.
1. Regular Team Meetings: Meet at least once a month as a department or team for celebrating the WINS of past month and the PLAN for the next day.
2. Confirm active patient count: Know how many active patients you have –patients who have been in for a visit in the past two years.
3. Analyze your Break Even for Cash Flow: Know what it costs to run the practice and what needs to be collected to live your lifestyle.
4. Nurture Internal Referrals: Ask the patients who are loyal to you to refer their friends and family.
5. Maximize Technology: USE IT!! -Don’t let it sit there like the exercise bike in my bedroom!!
6. Flexible Financial Arrangements: Be open to ways to pay and work with a third party financing company.
7. Comprehensive Oral Exams: Update patients every 3-5 years as a needed dental physical.
8. Diagnostic Philosophy: Is everything getting diagnosed and treatment planned?
9. 80% recall/retention: Schedule dedicated time to approach the patients who have fallen through the cracks and are due for a hygiene appointment.
10. Gain Help and support from an Expert: Call us today at 1-800-345-5157 for your complimentary conversation!
About the Author
Lisa Philp is the Chief Visionary Officer of TGNA – Transitions Group North America. Lisa is committed to being an eternal student in the areas of personal growth, leadership, change management, human capital potential, adult learning, advanced training techniques and communication skills.
