I am wanting to get my chairsides involved in being responsible for their individual operatory, and how it gets scheduled. However, I don't want them to feel too responsible for hammering out the financial details.

I do not want to go frontdeskless, but I realize this is a small step in that direction. We have had computers in the ops for many years, and they are comfortable with Dentrix, so the transition should not be difficult.

It would seem like a nice flow is possible, because the chairside (or hygienist) has spent the last 45 minutes or so with the patient, and the scheduling should be more seamless than having to regurgitate the conversation to the front desk.

Our hygienists have been pre-appointing for many years, but neither they nor the chairsides have been booking treatment from the back, and this is what I want to change.

Probably the biggest hurdle I see is getting them on the schedule, only to have them decide the treatment is not something they can afford right now after they get to the front and talk finances.

So, has anyone been doing this for a while, or have the consultants in the AADPA seen some successful offices doing this? If so, what are some items I should keep in mind as we make this transition?

Hi Kent, I think your idea of having your assistant do a "room" has merit. Sounds like you are still moving from room to room. I decide many years ago to limit my treatment to one operatory. It has made my life much less stressful, improved my production and allowed me more time to see people with hygiene appointments. Can't help you with an answer, but know for sure that if you don't have a particular talent (we call it gestalt - seeing the big picture and how all the little pieces fit together) it will be a nightmare. Scheduling is an art not a science.

On another issue - looks like technology is going to fiinally get me. I have been a Mac useer for 18 years (DentalMac), but now we are ready to look at adding all the bells and whistles - digital radiology and screens in the operatories. Is Dentrix the only viable solution? What radiology system? What are the pitfalls? Is Larry Emmott the man to talk with?

Bud

Larry Emmott is the guy, for sure. Maybe he will get on the forum at some point. Dentrix is my favorite, but then, when you have a hammer...

I also like Schick, but the same carpentry analogy fits. The only pitfall is the expense of the sensors, but I would never go back, no way, no how.

I know the way I practice is not comfortable for everyone, but I'm built to enjoy going from room to room and delegating all the stuff I don't like to do.

I don't have the personality of a salesman, so the treatment is presented, and if they want to do it, fine...if not, "Next!"

I think the major issue with multiple chairs and individual talents would be the ability to know what Dr. Time and Assistant time is supposed to be. It is stressful when something that is supposed to take 60 minutes for someone to complete under normal circumstances takes 90 minutes - then the schedule unravels and everyone goes crazy.

I'm sure you can handle multiple chairs just fine. And I'm sure you can ask people to do what's in their best interest - that's ethical salesmanship.

Am going to come and visit next time in Dallas - that's where I am today - just getting ready to fly back home this afternoon.

Bud

Sorry I missed you, Bud! Stop by next time.