When to put more staff on…

The issue of when to put more staff on is often debated. The question is: what are your goals?

If you want your practice to grow, then at some point you do need to increase your staff levels. This will not only increase your leverage in terms of revenue but also improve your customer service and clinical outcomes.  If you want to remain a solo practice, then this post might just be an interesting read for you. 

I often go by the following simple formula. If the practice is running at 80% in terms of in-room appointments used and this has been the case for a 6-8 week period, and all your staff are working their normal timetables then, it is time to employ another practitioner if you can and you have the space. 

One of the things we know about patients is that they like to be able to get appointments when they want and with who they want. Therefore, having the clinic run at just under 80% will allow this to be done with greater ease. This will also make it more viable in terms of having a consistency of practitioner for the patient leading obviously to better customer service, clinical outcomes, and clinic reputation. Being able to cover annual and sick leave is also a bonus of this strategy. 

Assuming you don’t have the space for another practitioner, then potentially consider putting up your fees. Simple economics 101, supply, and demand. The topic of fees and charging what your worth will be covered next time.  

As your clinic grows you will get to the point where it does not rely on just a few staff to operate and by doing so you do reduce your exposure to risk. I know it sounds simple but if you have three practitioners in the clinic and one leaves, you’re 33% down in terms of staffing levels and revenue generation. However, if you have one in five leave, well that’s only 20%. It is like insurance, plan for the worst, plan better for the best and remember, CASH FLOW IS KING!

So, if you want your clinic to grow, you need to employ. The first one is the hardest, I doubt you will look back. 

If you want to learn more (and due to recent requests) I am running my 2 day Transform your practice course in October this year! Click here to be forwarded to my website and events page to gain further understanding and read testimonials from past participants. I would love to see you there and share my knowledge to help you work towards the practice of your dreams. 

For more details please visit my website at: www.antonyhirstconsulting.com.au

Sincerely,
Antony Hirst