Coaching for Dentists

Coaching Made Simple

When a dentist is interested in my help, my primary objective is to ask questions and learn as much as I can about that dentist.  After learning what the dentist wants, the next objective is to determine if we are a good professional match. It matters.  When a dentist, team and consultant "click", we have the potential to do great work together.

 I have never taken a “one size fits all” approach.  When I'm clear and confident I can help meet your objectives, it's then that coaching options are discussed.  We begin by addressing your most pressing issues.  Generally, our work will fall into one of the following categories:

Click above to hear Debbie discussing the importance of team meetings and systems in an efficient and profitable practice.

1.  Issue-Specific Coaching: You want coaching in a particular area, which may simply be worked through over the phone or video Skype.  If you have a specific issue, which can be worked through on the phone, this approach may be perfect for you.  You may prefer to start a coaching relationship slowly, so it can be a great way to get to know each other. We discuss your issue, a diagnosis is made and a plan for action is developed.  Leading you toward a result is my objective.

2.  Practice Analysis Coaching:  You’re fairly certain your practice isn’t as efficient and organized as it could be – and therefore not as profitable as it should be - and are in need of a practice analysis. The savvy dentist knows it makes sense to have a complete evaluation every so often to avoid hidden issues and potential pitfalls.  It just makes sense to take the time for expert analysis and to develop a game plan to meet your goals.  Practice Analysis Coaching and Annual Planning Coaching generally go hand in hand. Most often, this service is a two-day onsite visit in your office.  

3.  Annual Planning Coaching: You are finally ready to get a handle on your overhead and all the metrics associated with your practice.  Only when I have a thorough understanding of the financial aspect of your practice can I make the best recommendations. By not investing in this step is akin to you developing a treatment plan for a patient without a full series of radiographs. This service often accompanies my Practice Analysis Coaching and is the one that dentists rave has been “worth the price of admission”.  It includes a thorough analysis of your Profit and Loss statement, expense projections, your calendar is set for the upcoming year, and “smart” goals are determined to meet the needs of your practice.   When this is combined with a Practice Analysis, this service is provided on the second day of the two-day, onsite visit.

4. Coaching for Practice Administrators: The challenges of running a successful dental practice become more time-consuming and complex each year. Human resources, endless new governmental regulations, hiring, training, project management, marketing, patient needs – just to name a few – all come with the 21st century dentist’s territory. But what happens when a dentist is being pulled in so many directions they simply don’t have the time, energy or inclination to handle it all? Click here for complete information on my Coaching for Practice Administrators service.

5.  Comprehensive Coaching:  You know that improving your practice is more than a “tweak” and there is a desire for a more significant working relationship. After a Practice Analysis and Annual Plan, I develop a training curriculum to best meet your needs.  The plan is based on what you want along with recommendations from my findings.  This approach may require a 3-, 6-, 12- or 15-month working relationship combining telephone/Skype and on-site visits.  My fee and the time I expect we will work together will be clear.  How we proceed will always be up to you. 

Here are some of the areas we may be working on in Comprehensive Coaching:

• Systems Coaching:  You are ready for results, consistency and happy patients who enjoy doing business with you. After analysis of your current systems, such as payment protocols, appointment scheduling, recare, the new patient exam and staff meetings, I provide training and resources allowing you to improve systems for optimal efficiency and patient service.  When your systems work, your patients are the ultimate beneficiaries--and they will thank you for it!
  
  
• Leadership Coaching: You are ready for training and coaching to be a better boss.  You want to see your productivity and team go to the next level. Learning how to strengthen a team who will share in and help move your vision forward, is one of the most important functions you have as a practice leader. Yes, you can do this. The best practices I work with work collaboratively and enthusiastically together.  Learn how to bring out the best in your people.  
  
  
• Communication skills:  You know there is a better way to say things—but just don’t know how to train your staff.  Whether it’s how to effectively work with patients who attempt to cancel an appointment, how a patient is “handed-off” from the back office to the front desk team or ensure that patients “feel the love”, communication skill development is key—and what most doctors say they want for themselves and their team members.  
  
  
• Transition Coaching: You are ready to prepare for a transition such as bringing in an associate, preparing for a sale, or merging your practice with another.  The form a practice transition can take is as varied as the potential players involved.  I’ll work with you to find the best plan and solution and to see you reach your transition goals.  Successful transitions require a team of experts and I’m associated with some of the best in the industry.

My job is to help you succeed at yours, while you produce excellent dentistry, run a successful small business and go home happy each evening. Period. Your job is to find and utilize the best coaching and support in order to reach your individual goals.   Let’s talk and together get started on making something significant happen.

My fee and payment options will be discussed when we determine how we will work together.  Thank you.