To succeed in dentistry is to have passion, patience, and the right business plan to place your future clinic on the map. This means getting in touch with the qualified professionals who will oversee the business aspect of your dream, hiring the right team with equal, if not, more passion in the field, and promoting your practice. Unfortunately, with any new location comes its humble beginnings. However, some clinics never make it past those beginning obstacles. Here are some common issues in failed dental practices you might want to avoid.
Improperly Trained Receptionists
Your front desk staff is always the first point of contact and the last face a patient will see upon leaving. Front desk team members must undergo adequate training to perform their job duties on top of having experience in engaging with the public. Lacking in either department can result in unhappy patients that refuse to follow up on treatment.
Not Enough Staff To Delegate Tasks
Not having the right amount of staff can pose a problem when giving patients efficient services. For example, if you find yourself performing more cleanings than actual dentistry, consider searching for more hygienists to fill the role so you can focus on the more serious procedures in the appointment.
Unsafe Work Environment
Providing a safe environment for staff and patients is a priority during your start-up. Your clinic should be free of hazards, and staff must be trained in accident prevention to mitigate the risk of malpractice.
Lack of Quality Control
A patient’s experience at your dental clinic can set the tone for future visits and new patients. All patients should have the option of filling out a survey to express what they liked and did not like during their stay. Surveys present opportunities for improvement within your business.
Low Treatment Plan Acceptance
Many dental practices can struggle to find new patients; however, if you dig deeper within the field, you’ll notice that many patients come in, receive a treatment plan they refuse to accept, and walk out never to return. Whether due to funding or a lack of confidence in their dentist, some patients will choose not to receive regular care, resulting in a lackluster patient list.
These common issues in failed dental practices define the blueprint of a well-thought-out business plan by stating concerns that could make or break your location. Handling these situations promptly can promote healthy business practices that can contribute to your clinic’s success.
