Summary

Scheduling is time management and time management controls almost all other systems. Practices that improve case acceptance, customer service, etc. often do not increase production unless the schedule is addressed. One way expressed is, “You cannot out-produce your schedule.” This true statement is reflective of the need to continually update schedules and occasionally completely replace them as services, technology, materials, and efficiency change. Making positive changes in the practice without updating the schedule will still restrict the level of production growth or even contribute to production decline. By mathematically analyzing the schedule through procedural times studies and time blocking exercises, as described above, the practice can continually improve performance. As the speed of treatment can increase, without rushing the doctor or team, it creates a wonderful opportunity to increase practice production.

The recommendations in this course will work unless there is a shortage of patients or new patients. Those practices are operating significantly below their production potential, and this is an opportunity to bring it up to the highest level of performance. Additionally, better schedules are more efficient, smoother, easier, and less fatiguing. It truly is the best of all worlds.