Backlogged work, long wait times, and stressful processes coincide with bottlenecks. These obstacles limit growth and decrease the capacity of the orthodontist and their team. However, we can manage bottlenecks by increasing the efficiency and reducing the input into the backup. In my prior post, we discussed how an orthodontic practice could train productive team members, use technology to gain capacity, and improve workflows to achieve efficiency. We can also decrease the workload by slowing the pace and avoiding jams altogether.
Orthodontists are often wearing many hats and handling many tasks. Sometimes, the concern within an orthodontic practice is the doctor as a bottleneck. As a result, back-ups with all that we do can affect our productivity and stress levels. Let’s discuss four strategies to decrease their effect.
Manage doctor time
Document everything you do. In addition, practice deliberately to reduce the time to do it. It would be best to manage all the workloads assigned to the orthodontist to make sure nothing is slowing down the doctor. For example, the clinical assistant should be ready for the procedure when called into an operatory. Digital work should also be vetted and prepared before the doctor reviews to minimize doctor time doing CAD work. Setups and equipment should be ready to support the doctor’s appointment. Add the necessary resources to the bottleneck’s operation. A doctor partnered with an efficient process, proper technology, and an empowered team can be incredibly productive.
Examine your schedule
Analyze your production schedule to make sure there is a procedure mix that minimizes the demand for the doctor. The template should account for where you can be during your day and keep a realistic yet productive pace. The orthodontist should also only do what a doctor needs to do. Eliminate all non-value-added activities. Get rid of all the waste in operation. Eliminating loss of productivity is the focus of process improvement.
Manage downtime
Eliminate time sinks. Manage internal and external distractions that will pull you away from productivity time. During downtime, coordinate digital work and opportunities for training and marketing. Preparation and a proactive approach to pending work can decrease the stress of busier times.
Reassign tasks
Whenever possible, break down tasks into smaller projects and reassign them to auxiliary personnel. Delegation becomes key to a productive doctor and productive orthodontic practice.
