Triple Threat Dental Practice

Definition:  Triple Threat – noun, an individual who is an expert or adept in three fields or skills, i.e., a football player
skilled at running, passing, and kicking.
 
Reflecting on 35 years of experience in private practice and as I now engage with other dentists on their practice growth and development, sustaining a thriving practice involves change; a change that seems to evolve over time like our patients is the business and economic climate, and the industry we represent.  The image that comes to mind is the multi-talented athlete who brings a high level of skills to the team-running, passing and kicking all done with the ease and grace of the skilled athlete.
I place this analogy before you as we look at the skills required in today’s healthcare environment for the dental practice – and yes, once again I mention three, the TRIPLE THREAT:

• Technical skills
• Leadership skills
• Business skills

 
Upon graduation from dental school, our focus is directed toward acquiring hand-eye coordination and technical skills and a base line for the basic sciences in understanding patient care.  Placing the patient in the chair and doing the dentistry is our primary goal.
 
The enormous paradigm shift is supporting the skills and knowledge that brings patient care-which includes the complete care of the patient – to a reality! Hence, the new requirement of a dental office is to be as adept as a “Triple Threat Athlete” An expert with; the Technical skills, knowledge and skills for the business side of the practice, and leadership.
 
One of the most important things we can impart on our colleagues entering the dental profession, as well as those currently practicing, is that we must expand our tool box.  We must become adept in the business beyond our dental skills and seek out the required expertise.  Most of us have an affinity toward two of the three required skill sets, but spend little time or energy on the areas that drain us. 

An honest self-assessment of our strengths is essential in order for us to come to the realization of recognizing “what we don’t know” and where there's opportunity for growth. Seeking professional expertise in the area of business (legal, accounting, etc.) and leadership development is not optional in today’s multi-faceted business environment and the patients we serve.
 
One example getting everyone’s attention is the recently posted state regulations and their expanding oversight. This not only needs attention, but demands leadership to ensure the compliance of all staff. There is an increasing number of health care and business regulations that requires our awareness to avoid legal consequences. An up-to-date office manual signed by the employee today is mandatory.  Without all team members on-board and being knowledgeable of your policy compliance with state and federal law, you and your practice are at exposed. 
 
The paradigm shift has taken place and the era of the ‘Triple Threat’ dental practice is not just being ushered into our profession, it’s become a mandatory requirement for growth and success.  It has also led to models of practicing dentistry such as large group practices and corporate management offices.
 
For the purpose of this article I challenge you to do a self-assessment.

• TECHNICAL SKILLS: Are my professional skills growing with the knowledge base of advancements taking place in our field?
•  LEADERSHIP & VISION:  Vision requires clarity-alignment and the ability to execute a plan.
• COMMUNICATION:  Skills that articulate patient needs and influence decisions towards positive health, while building trusting relationships that leads to growth and referrals.
• RELATIONSHIPS:  The human relationship and its development are not optional and must be woven into the vision for the practice. Dental schools are attempting to incorporate the humanistic component into the curriculum recognizing that it must be woven into the complex fabric of the new dentist. It has now become a standard for accreditation.
• BUSINESS MANAGEMENT:  Management of the business cannot be escaped if we hope to have a well-run office. I put this under the category of leadership. You can delegate responsibilities, but you must inspect what you expect. I find ignoring the inspection often results in management abuse or abdicated by the doctor. The tail ends up waging the dog.

  
So how do I strengthen my office to have the skills of a Triple Threat Athlete?
 
First, establish an intentional planning time, put it on the calendar and make this happen. Nothing changes or happens without the dedicated time.

Start with a written assessment of the areas discussed. Consider an outside consultant if this type of project is totally outside your wheel house.  Each skill (leadership, business and technical) deserves your attention if you want to take your practice to the next level.  Be vulnerable and select 2 or 3 colleagues to have a discussion in these areas.
 
Remember, you can do anything, but you cannot do everything.  Select one area to research and develop a strategy to grow and then apply your knowledge. Do this over a 1-2 month period.
 
Once you have a plan in place, consider involving your team and get their input and feedback. This will help to get ownership and support from your team. Where appropriate, seek professional counsel outside the dental profession. Today’s world of technology and information is ideal for people who are lifelong learners and want to expand their skill set or knowledge base.
 
Change in all three areas is constant.  The critical question is ‘How will I respond?’

Change is not optional and growth is a choice.   Grow into a ‘Triple Threat’ office.
 
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Editor’s Note:  Dr. James R. Schroeder practiced dentistry in Richmond and is the founder of Leadership by Design.  If you have questions or would like help implementing a change in your office, contact Dr. Jim at 804-897-5900 or email drjim@lbdtransitions.com
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