Do's and don'ts for updating systems

The basis of all dental practice management is one word: systems. A system is a process that is carried out to achieve the desired result. Unfortunately, most practices go for years without updating their systems, even after experiencing significant challenges. Practices can only achieve higher revenue, increased efficiency, and lower stress by upgrading the systems they currently have.

Use proven systems. When it comes to designing and updating systems, you can't afford to waste years on trial and error when a lot of it will be error. You need to know that the systems you're about to implement exist somewhere and have proved to be successful. Systems that are achieving results in other practices will also achieve results in yours.

Don't forget to document systems. If your systems aren't documented, then they exist only in the heads of the team members. This means that when a team member leaves, all that knowledge leaves with that individual. After certain team members leave, we've seen practices left scrambling to figure out how to handle insurance, collect money, or even schedule patients. When your systems are documented, the information can be accessed by anyone for study and review.

Dr. Roger P. Levin is CEO of Levin Group, a leading practice management and marketing consulting firm. To contact him or to join the 40,000 dental professionals who receive his Practice Production Tip of the Day, visit LevinGroup.com or email [email protected].

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