Lord Chesterfield once said, “Take care of the minutes, and the hours will take care of themselves”. Every minute during our patient visit is worth its weight in gold. So using every one of them to be as productive and useful as possible is invaluable. Here are some tips to help you become the master of your minutes.
Be prepared: Research ahead of time what your patient will need before you ever seat them. Having sensors for x-rays, the proper tray and instruments, know if they needed to premed etc. Awareness of your schedule and what your day holds will set the tone for your day.
Morning Huddle: This is valuable time spent with the team addressing the schedule and any special patient or time management needs BEFORE hand.
Equipment: Are my instruments, tips and inserts sharp and in top-notch working order? Make sure you have a measuring guide and checking your ultrasonic instruments for wear regularly. It’s amazing how much time is saved by using the same instrument, tip or insert throughout the whole mouth until it is no longer needed before picking up a different one – and NO SHARPENING!
Alert doctor early: After gathering and updating your information, alert the doctor that he/she may come and do the exam. Keep working and educating your patient with everything possible until they arrive. Don’t wait until the end of the appointment.
Software savvy: Make sure you know all of the ins-and-outs of your software. Short cuts like note templates, bundling of codes and voice activated probing saves keyboarding time, staffing and frustration. If your software is not user-friendly for you – then get help! Utilize and embrace the world of technology in dentistry.
If you often find yourself running behind throughout the day you might try timing yourself. Look at each procedure and analyze if there are any shortcuts you can take, while continuing to deliver quality service and care.
If this topic hits a nerve with you, then you won’t want to miss what Rachel has coming up for you in our new Video Series beginning in September. Stay tuned!
If you are interested in coaching services or products from Inspired Hygiene, please visit our website atwww.InspiredHygiene.com or call us at 877-237-7230.
Stay Inspired,
Jamie