Doctors can either be the bottleneck or remove bottlenecks in their orthodontic practice. The productivity of a practice is often affected by bottlenecks that limit capacity. Consider a productivity mindset that is fostered by avoiding bottlenecks in your practice that block team members from getting things done. We can remove blockages by simplifying office systems so an orthodontic team can deliver excellent care to patients without complex and bureaucratic steps. We can also bolster team members who need training so they can perform tasks on time.
Every business can experience organizational obstacles that prevent growth. The first step to manage bottlenecks is to identify them. Generally, bottleneck issues are represented by backlogged work, long wait times, and processes filled with stress. They are either performer issues or system issues.
Performer issues
Performer issues are present when people are involved. They could be related to the doctor, staff, or third party support. One example of a performer issue in orthodontics is a clinical assistant that often runs behind on her scheduled patient column. This clinical assistant can reduce the office’s productivity, increase the workload of the rest of the team, and make the schedule run behind. Mapping the process and identifying the time it takes for each task will help to determine performer issues.
System issues
System issues are often related to a process, technology, or software. For example, a bottleneck developed by the slow upload speeds of your internet. The slow speed delays the new patient photo uploads and can create a bottleneck in the new patient appointments. As a result, longer new patient appointments could lead to fewer appointments seen per day and a backlog of patients who wait days or weeks for orthodontic treatment. Frequent staff complaints about specific processes are a way to identify system issues.
Options for managing bottlenecks in your practice
Increase the efficiency of the bottleneck
- Train productive team members
- Use technology to gain the capacity
- Upgrade your workflow
Decrease the input into the bottleneck
- Delegate or outsource processes
- Slow the pace
- Avoid the bottleneck step altogether
Removing bottlenecks should lead to increased productivity. Monitor those key performance indicators you want to improve. Remind your team to work smarter and critically analyze your workflows in the office.
