For the first time in 17 years—since I opened my doors as a start-up practice with three patients on the schedule that first day—I’ve had to tell patients wanting to get established that I’m unable to see them at this time. I’m actually turning patients away.
This is not a good feeling. At all. Why? Well, I’m at full capacity. I don’t have room for my hygiene patients at the three-, four-, and six-month intervals—for either existing or new patients. And yes, I know I need another hygienist but here’s the conundrum: I’ve had an ad out for eight months. My restorative schedule (which is blocked by appointment type and production) is booked out for a month solid and finding 30 minutes even for an emergency is difficult (although I will never turn down a patient with an emergent medical need). My staff is on the ball, fine-tuned, and we operate like a well-run machine—something I’m really proud of. But, when it boils down to it, I only have so many hours in each day, and there are only so many providers to go around.
My plan is to see how things play out through the summer. Given the state of the economy with the general trend being an uptick in patients needing care—whether it’s due to increased self-care awareness or “COVID retribution”—I would submit this situation is likely something that’s not unique to me. Am I wrong?
My front desk has managed OK thus far, although some patients, quite frankly, are pissed they can’t come in. Some understand. Some are agreeable to being put on a short call list. Bottom line: I’m a “yes” person (as opposed to a “no” person) and telling people I can’t see them doesn’t sit well with me at all.
Any insight into this from those of you who have had to close your doors to the newbies per se would be appreciated! I know this isn’t going to be a permanent situation for my practice, but I’m in new territory here and thinking I’m not alone...at least I hope I’m not!
The wheels are churning, and some ideas have sprouted in my adventurous mind about how to manage the status quo. Many may call me crazy for having these ideas, but let’s just say it’s a brainstorming venture to be had over a drink with like-minded people. So, stay tuned.
Shoot me your thoughts and insights!
Dr. Stacey
Editor’s note: This article first appeared in Through the Loupes newsletter, a publication of the Endeavor Business Media Dental Group. Read more articles and subscribe to Through the Loupes.
Stacey L. Gividen, DDS, a graduate of Marquette University School of Dentistry, is in private practice in Hamilton, Montana. She is a guest lecturer at the University of Montana in the anatomy and physiology department. Dr. Gividen is the editorial codirector of Through the Loupes and a contributing author for DentistryIQ, Perio-Implant Advisory, and Dental Economics. She serves on the Dental Economics editorial advisory board. You may contact her at [email protected].
