With so many dental practices still struggling to recover during the slow economic recovery, it has become more important than ever to maximize practice efficiency. Upgrading management systems makes this possible, but only if team members have the attitude and skills to get the most out of those systems.
Even the best staff members need continuing education — both clinical and administrative — if they are to keep abreast of the ongoing changes in dentistry. There are three major components of a truly effective staff training program:
1. Professional development planning for each team member — The dentist or office manager should create a multi-year continuing education plan for each team member. The elements of such a plan — reviewed annually and modified as needed — are based on the individual’s occupational and personal strengths and weaknesses, as well as the practice’s immediate and long-term goals. A combination of CE courses, workshops, and other educational resources, both in-office and off-site, should capitalize on the team member’s current skills, address any deficiencies, and anticipate the practice’s needs as they evolve. The finalized professional development plan should be reviewed with the individual.
2. Day-to-day training on practice systems — The practice team should be able to perform everyday activities with consistency and efficiency. Document how systems are to be used, step-by-step and in writing, so that all staff members — from veterans to novices — can quickly learn the protocols by following the steps. Team members can also be trained at monthly business reviews using scripted role-playing techniques.
3. Training days — Working together, the dentist and team should plan at least one training day a year. Topics would be chosen to meet the specific needs of individuals, groups of employees with similar job requirements, and the team as a whole. Following an agenda, a training day might include presentations by:
- An accountant discussing the office’s financial procedures
- Manufacturers’ representatives educating the staff about product utilization and benefits for patients
- A software expert showing how programs can be used to increase front-office effectiveness
- An OSHA consultant reviewing office safety procedures
- The dentist explaining the uses and advantages of new materials and technologies
Outstanding practice teams are made, not born. By implementing these proven approaches to professional development, any practice can significantly increase staff efficiency — which will maximize profitability.
To learn how to run a more profitable, efficient, and satisfying practice, visit the Levin Group Resource Center at www.levingroup.com/gp— a free online resource with tips, videos, and other valuable information. You can also connect with Levin Group on Facebook and Twitter (@Levin_Group) to learn strategies and share ideas.
Author bio
Dr. Roger Levin is a third-generation general dentist and the chairman and CEO of Levin Group, Inc., the largest dental practice management and marketing firm in the United States. As a leading authority on dental practice management and marketing, he has developed the scientific systems-based consulting method that will increase practice production and profitability, while lowering stress. Dr. Levin has authored more than 60 books and over 3,000 articles. He presents 100 seminars worldwide each year.
