OFFICE APPEARANCE---A KEY TO RETAINING PATIENTS

After you read this, close your eyes. Take a mental stroll through your office. Be critical. How does it appear to patients, particularly first timers? Remember that an appealing, up-to-date office says to patients, “This doctor and staff care about their office, its appearance and cleanliness. They will have the same type of care for me.” Patients often equate an attractive, impeccably clean office with excellent dental care. And, particularly, in today’s tight economy, patients will stay and accept treatment only from a practice they consider excellent.

If you are not entirely pleased by your office appearance, recruit staff members in the evaluation process. Set time aside to let business staff members walk through the clinical area, making a list of opportunities for improvements. Ask clinical staff to do the same for the business and reception areas. Don’t forget the grounds and parking area. Looking critically with “fresh eyes”, staff members can spot problems in the area in which they do NOT work.

Follow up. Act on staff suggestions and your own critique as well. Organization and tidiness of your office are free except for staff time involved. If costly projects are necessary, such as new carpet, re-painting or purchasing new reception room furniture or new clinical equipment, set a budget and prioritize the order in which improvements will be made.