As a second-generation DC, chiropractic has always been a way of life for me.
Growing up in a chiropractic family allowed me to develop a unique perspective on success within our field. I firmly believe that anyone can achieve their goals with dedication and the right guidance. While personal effort is crucial, having a coach can expedite the journey to success, minimizing detours and missteps. Personally, I’ve always had a coach for my personal and professional growth, and I still do today. Success is a system, not just a trait, and with the right procedures, protocols and tools, any doctor of chiropractic can build a successful practice.
Where to turn for sound advice
In today’s rapidly changing healthcare marketplace, with dramatic shifts in regulatory and reimbursement landscapes, it has never been more crucial for DCs to engage the services of a practice management coach. The right coach can be the difference between a thriving practice and one that merely survives. However, with the proliferation of self-proclaimed “coaches” offering questionable schemes, finding a reliable advisor can be challenging.
Choosing a coach with a solid reputation and a proven track record can save you from costly mistakes and ensure you receive the highest-quality advice. Look for coaches who are recognized and endorsed by your professional associations. This endorsement acts as a seal of approval, indicating the coach adheres to ethical standards and provides valuable, effective guidance. A coach who is actively involved in the chiropractic community will be up to date with the latest trends, regulations and best practices, providing you with relevant and timely advice.
Safety in numbers
The pace of change in chiropractic practice, particularly in coding and compliance, is overwhelming. No single practitioner can keep up with these changes alone. The concept “None of us are as smart as all of us” has never been more applicable. A practice management coach with a national perspective can provide insights into healthcare trends before they impact your practice, offering tailored advice relevant to your local market. This support simplifies the business side of your practice, allowing you to focus on patient care.
By joining forces, you benefit from their broad network of professionals and resources. This network can offer you access to a wealth of knowledge and experience that would be difficult to acquire on your own. The collaborative approach facilitated by a coach enables you to stay ahead of industry changes, implement best practices and avoid common pitfalls. The coach’s national perspective ensures you are not isolated in your practice but are part of a larger community working together to enhance quality of care and operational efficiency.
Align belief systems
DCs need practical tools to run successful practices, not just motivational speeches. It’s crucial to find a coach whose philosophy aligns with your practice values and who understands the contemporary challenges of chiropractic care. The best coaches are proficient with modern technology and adept at teaching DCs how to document functional outcomes, attract high-quality new patients and maintain a passionate, purpose-driven team.
When selecting a coach, ensure their methods and strategies resonate with your approach to patient care. A coach who shares your belief system will be better equipped to provide guidance that aligns with your practice goals. They should offer concrete, actionable advice that can be implemented in your day-to-day operations. Look for coaches who emphasize evidence-based practices and are familiar with the latest advancements in chiropractic care. This alignment will ensure the coaching relationship is productive and the strategies you implement will have a lasting positive impact on your practice.
The importance of systems
Long-term success is built on consistent systems, not your charisma or personality. Your practice should be systems-driven, from patient examination and care recommendations to financial and documentation procedures. By implementing a systematic approach, you can focus on patient care without distraction, leading to record-breaking levels of production. A knowledgeable coach will apply sound business principles to your practice, ensuring sustainable success.
A systems-driven practice operates efficiently, reduces errors and enhances patient satisfaction. Implementing standardized procedures for every aspect of your practice — from initial patient contact to follow-up care — creates a predictable and reliable experience for your patients. This consistency builds trust and loyalty, encouraging patients to refer others to your practice. A coach with expertise in developing and refining systems can help you identify areas for improvement, streamline your operations and ensure your practice runs smoothly even during periods of growth or change.
Multidisciplinary practice coaches
The trend toward multidisciplinary practices is growing, with many DCs finding it cost-effective to consolidate services. However, this approach comes with increased legal and regulatory complexities. A knowledgeable coach and attorney familiar with your state’s legal and business structures for multidisciplinary practices can save you time, trouble and money.
Multidisciplinary practices offer numerous benefits, including comprehensive patient care and increased revenue streams. However, they also require careful navigation of legal and regulatory requirements. A coach experienced in multidisciplinary practice management can guide you through these complexities, helping you establish a compliant and efficient practice. They can assist with integrating different services, managing diverse teams and ensuring that all practitioners adhere to the necessary regulations. This expertise protects your practice from legal issues and enhances the quality of care you provide.
Personal coaching
One-on-one coaching offers personalized education and inspiration. A coach with real-world experience in managing successful chiropractic practices can accelerate your progress and hold you accountable for your goals. Learning from someone who has achieved what you aspire to can be incredibly motivating. A coach committed to ethics, integrity and your success can be a powerful ally in your professional journey.
Personal coaching provides tailored advice that addresses your specific needs and challenges. A coach who has navigated the complexities of the chiropractic industry can offer practical solutions and strategies based on their own experiences. This personalized approach ensures you receive relevant and actionable guidance, accelerating your progress toward your goals. Accountability is a key aspect of personal coaching, as it ensures you stay focused and committed to your objectives. A coach who operates with ethics and integrity fosters a trusting relationship, enhancing the effectiveness of the coaching process.
Financial affluence and professional influence
Financial success is not just a personal goal but a professional necessity. Affluent DCs can influence legislation and policy, ensuring chiropractic is recognized as a leading healthcare option. Financial security allows you to support your professional organizations and educational institutions, impacting public opinion and ensuring the profession’s long-term vitality. Success requires commitment, action and the willingness to be held accountable for your coach’s advice.
Achieving financial affluence enables you to invest in your practice, enhance patient care and contribute to the advancement of the profession. Financially secure practitioners are better positioned to support initiatives that promote chiropractic care, advocate for favorable policies and fund educational programs. This collective financial strength empowers the chiropractic community to influence public perception and legislative decisions, securing a prominent role for chiropractic in the healthcare landscape.
Final thoughts
The right practice management coach will provide expert guidance, implement effective systems and foster professional development, allowing you the time, freedom and knowledge to focus on what you do best — caring for your patients.
MARK SANNA, DC, is the CEO of Breakthrough Coaching. He is a board member of the Foundation for Chiropractic Progress, a member of the Chiropractic Summit and a member of the Chiropractic Future Strategic Plan Leadership Committee. To learn more, visit mybreakthrough.com. Sanna is the author of Cracking the Code: Marketing Chiropractic—How Chiropractors Align Spines and Minds, available on Amazon.com.
