Sunday, May 24, 2015

IS HIRING A PRACTICE ADMINISTRATOR A GOOD IDEA?

The practice of dentistry has evolved well past the old description, “Drill, fill, and bill.”  As a result, managing an office has become much more complicated and burdensome.  Multi-doctor practices with more staff members are now the norm rather than solo practices with two or three team members.  Government-imposed regulations such as HIPAA and OSHA demand much time and attention.  Electronics, including website management, social media postings, electronic charting, filing of claims, patient privacy regulations, marketing and so on demand expertise of a knowledgeable manager.  In short, the dentist often cannot juggle all the balls necessary for managing today’s dental practice while continuing to care for patients with the latest and best treatment.

Many dentists are finding the answer to the additional stress of managing today’s uber-busy dental office by hiring a Practice Administrator. That poses the question to many dentists, “Where can I find someone to fill the role?”  Look for likely candidates among your own team members.  A bright, experienced, dependable staff member with a sense of the business aspects of the practice can evolve into an excellent Practice Administrator.  You may find the right person by recruiting business or management graduates at local colleges or community colleges.  Additionally, place ads with  employment agencies, particularly those specializing in management level positions or healthcare practice administrators.

While you are weighing the possibilities of adding a Practice Administrator to your staff roster, the questions may arise: “Do I really need a Practice Administrator?”  “What will the position cost?”  “Can my practice afford it?”  I’ll post some thoughts about Administrator responsibilities and compensation in my next blog.  Watch for it.

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