Advertising feature
A 21st-century private practice
Denplan’s Michael Rudmanlooks at the benefits of investing in the latest systems and technology
There’s more to running a success- ful practice than flashy gadgets – in fact, up to 30 per cent of dental practices in the UK still have no computerisation at all. However, keeping up to date with 21st-centu- ry technology can not only help you attract new patients, but also help your business thrive. The following tips are designed to give you an idea of where to start.
Websites Having a website is one of today’s most important yet inexpensive advertising tools. The best websites are visually appealing, informative, inviting and regularly updated, so invest in a good basic design and the rest can be done in-house. Most den- tal practice websites are outsourced to a specialist provider for design and support and this can be an easy and efficient way to achieve an inter- net presence.
Mobile phones More than 40 million people in the UK own a mobile phone and for the forward-thinking dental practice, its simplest application can be its great- est asset. By reminding patients of their forthcoming appointments via text message, you can save thou- sands of pounds in lost revenue. These can even be sent automatical- ly on a daily basis, as part of a practice management software system.
Computerised records Storing computerised patient
records not only eliminates the need for hundreds of patient folders, it also opens up a world of marketing opportunities and time-saving meas- ures. A couple of clicks is all it takes to make, cancel or amend appoint- ments and, with patient information at your fingertips, you can develop even better relationships by noting birthdays, applauding special mile- stones for children or recognising nervous patients.
Speculate to accumulate All these ideas are all very well and good, but in the current financial climate, you may be wary of making expensive changes to your practice. However, Practiceworks (sole sup- pliers of the Kodak R4 system) indicate that a two-surgery practice could have a basic networking system installed from under £10,000, while with digital imaging and other innovations, you could be looking at closer to £25,000. With a little effort to make the best use of the new technology, Practiceworks estimates that most practices will cover the cost of such an investment within 12 months. Installation and training can usu-
ally be done in three days, with the practice being closed for a maximum of just one day. Additional training can be delivered at any time and some payment plan providers offer a range of verifiable CPD courses to help integrate your team into new systems or ways of working. Some also offer a wealth of serv-
ices, including the ability to share patient information to ensure your records are always up to date and a wide range of professional and per- sonal discounts.
Social media If your practice already has the basics, you’re probably a convert
Michael Rudman Scottish Dental magazine 63
already, so what else is out there that could make your dental practice stand out from the crowd? Social networking sites such as blogs, Facebook and Twitter can not only allow you to share all your latest news and information with col- leagues and patients, but also the real-time nature of online updates can cause a real buzz and interest in what you have to say. You can set most up in minutes
and it’s a great way of updating your patients and colleagues on your latest practice news, events, servic- es and products. And the best thing is most social networking sites are completely free! So, if it’s time for an injection of
technology, my advice would be to consult the experts and take that leap to bring your practice into the 21st century.
About the Author Michael Rudman is Dental Strategy Manager at Denplan. With more than 11 years’ experience providing marketing advice and solutions to small businesses, Michael has been focusing on Denplan products for four years to not only develop its offering for practices, but also expand its online communications strategy.
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