Operating a successful dental practice is no easy feat. There are more variables involved in the smooth maintenance of a dental practice that go well beyond just knowing the dentistry aspect. Having a dental practice is, after all, a business. As experienced dental office consultants, we know the ins and outs of brokering dental practice transitions. And we know that these tips will help your dental practice run like a well-oiled engine.
Determine what makes your practice stand out.
On the surface, a dental clinic is a dental clinic. However, no two dental practices are the same because the people who operate them aren’t the same, nor are their patients. Figure out what makes your practice different from other practices in your area.
Research your competitors and other successful practices. What are they doing right? What services or packages do they offer? Is there a segment of patients who are being left out?
Develop lasting relationships with your patients.
The bread and butter of any business is customers. In the case of dental practices, patients. And while it’s great to want to focus your marketing on attracting new patients, the best strategy is to foster relationships with existing patients. Your patients are still your patients after they have concluded their visit. Keep in touch with them. Check on them. Be accessible through social media. Also, don’t be afraid to be an active member of your community. Organize a little BBQ or offer a refreshment pitstop at a local event such as a parade or charity run.
Create a positive office culture.
Your employees are your most important asset. Treat them as such. Create an organizational culture that fits your unique team so that they feel as if they are a part of a team. When employees feel as if they are a part of a team, they are more likely to take ownership of their place of work.
Keep your staff in the know with routines like weekly meetings that also allow them to share their opinions for improving systems. Be actively interested in their professional goals and help them to achieve those goals.
Offer patients different financing options.
We live in a world where there are just some things that aren’t affordable. Health care, including oral health, should not be one of them. You want your patients to follow your recommendations and they will be more likely to do that if they are able to finance their treatment. A patient’s financial situation shouldn’t dictate their health care decisions. Offering multiple forms of payment, such as debit, credit, check, or cash can really help. They will be more likely to return if they know you offer a variety of options to meet their needs.
Offer additional services.
In addition to keeping your practice’s technology up to date, considering offering additional services. While you don’t want to overextend your staff, if you have the means, offer additional services like Veneers, Implants, Dentures, or Oral sleep appliances.
Of course, your focus should be on offering the best oral health care you can. However, it’s apparent that oral health care alone isn’t what grows a business. So, when your dental practice transition becomes a reality, follow these tips and your practice is sure to run smoothly and efficiently. And if you need help, Aptus is a professional practice management consultant agency who can help you get the ball rolling so that your practice will be successful.
