We would all agree that if technology improves clinical quality, it should be considered for implementation in a dental practice. However, it should not be implemented at the risk of a decline in profitability due to the investment required. In my observation, the return on investment in workflow technology is significant and should help increase practice profitability and doctor income.
Develop a technology purchase plan. Practices that spend hundreds of thousands of dollars on new technologies all at once will struggle to achieve profit goals because of the increase in expenses. The key is to develop a technology purchase timeline. Some things make sense to buy together because they integrate well, and others can wait to be added to the practice.
Don't forget to educate patients about new technologies and/or new services. Adding a new service is a powerful strategy to increase practice production; however, this only works if your patients are aware of it. Levin Group recommends creating a simple monthly email with a few paragraphs to educate patients on the new technology or service and its benefits. This creates a higher-level image and leading-edge brand for the practice.
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].
The comments and observations expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of DrBicuspid.com, nor should they be construed as an endorsement or admonishment of any particular idea, vendor, or organization.
