Assure your continued success by planning today
This issue of Optometric Management focuses on a diverse set of strategies to help plan for the coming year. . . and beyond. Let’s start where it all begins — with the patient. (In her insightful “O.D. to O.D.” [p.4] Chief Optometric Editor April Jasper reminds us that at some point, we all will be patients.)
With advances in technology, consider patient communications in your planning. In “Employ Communication Technology,” (p.24), Mile Brujic, O.D., F.A.A.O., provides a summary of systems that can help reduce time spent on critical tasks, such as scheduling, and, ultimately, offer opportunities to interact with patients on a more personal level.
INTEGRATING A PASSION INTO PRACTICE
A win-win for many practices is the opportunity to combine a passion, such as sports, with patient care. To increase the likelihood that such a specialty will succeed, Jennifer Stewart, O.D., lists six “must-haves” in “Niche Necessities” (p.22). Dr. Stewart applied these “must-haves” to open Performance 20/20, which offers sports vision training.
Looking at operations, accounts receivable can be a tough topic to approach, especially with patients, but it is essential for planning. As Ann Rea Miller, O.D., explains, an effective AR system allows a practice to, “purchase new technology that aids in providing the best care to patients.” Dr. Miller offers “10 Steps to an Efficient Accounts Receivable,” beginning on p.18.
While IRS regulations on how tax law is interpreted have not been finalized yet, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 may provide substantial benefits for small business owners. To help plan for how the law could affect optometrists, see the two scenarios provided by Kenneth D. Doyle, O.D., M.B.A. in “Tax Break: Do You Qualify?” on p.14.
HOLIDAY PLANS AND WISHES
More immediately, consider your plans for the month. As December is a time of gifts and celebrations, along with commitments, planning your time can help make the holiday season less stressful and more enjoyable. And on behalf of the entire OM team, we wish you a season filled with peace, joy, time with loved ones and successful plans! OM