How do I talk to the practice owner about not giving discounts?September 14, 2016There are four key things I believe make discounting really detrimental to the smooth running of the practice. And none of them have anything to do with the bottom line. My advice would be not to make the financial implications of discounting the focus of your discussion.
SPONSORED CONTENTLife Gets Busy, Stay ON POINT With Cytopoint®Simplify your approach to allergic pruritus with Cytopoint. Help maintain control of allergic itch when schedules get hectic for both veterinarians and pet owners alike. + Learn more
Viewpoint: JAVMA editor disparaged COE criticsSeptember 7, 2016In a remarkable display of biased reasoning, Dr. Kurt Matushek, editor-in-chief of JAVMA, defends his decision to reject a commentary by Dr. Ralph Brinster, a recipient of the National Medal of Science, and 19 other of the most distinguished names in veterinary medicine, including former members of the American Veterinary Medical Association Council on Education.
How can I keep my star employee without paying him more?September 2, 2016I have an absolutely fantastic vet tech who has been with us for just under two years. He has almost 10 years experience, all in large, reputable hospitals. He was impressive during his interview, but during his time with us, he has exceeded all my expectations. In addition to his flawless technical skills, he has a great attitude, is reliable, an excellent team player and repeatedly goes above and beyond for clients and patients.
When veterinarians make mistakesAugust 26, 2016As I have confessed in this column many times before, I’m no poster child for veterinary practice. No one in their right mind would nominate me for clinician of the year. In fact, I’m prone to thinking my bad habits alone should probably disqualify me for any kind of a mentorship role.
How the 'gig economy' affects the future of veterinary industryAugust 26, 2016In 2001, author Daniel H. Pink published Free Agent Nation: How Americans New Independent Workers Are Transforming the Way We Live. The term 'Free Agent Nation,' was one he coined back in 1997 to predict the trend in the workforce toward freelancing, temporary work, self-employment and the rise of independent contractors.
Study: Vets hold key to growing pet insuranceAugust 19, 2016Practitioners looking for a reason to actively recommend pet health insurance should consider this: The average policyholder spends $73 more a year on veterinary care for a dog and $118 more for a cat.
How is your veterinary practice business doing?August 18, 2016You might think that the answer to this question has to do with how up-to-date you are with the latest advances in veterinary medicine. Do you have the top-of-the-line equipment? Are your staff members trained in the latest specialties?
I'm terrified of conducting job interviewsAugust 17, 2016I am the owner and sole practitioner of a small animal hospital. Over the past 20 years, I have conducted dozens, maybe hundreds of interviews, but that doesn’t mean I enjoy it or that I’m good at it. Actually, managing employees is one of my least favorite aspects of practice ownership.
Discover the silver lining in cloud-based PMSAugust 15, 2016We all know the lifeblood of any veterinary practice is the medical team and office staff. But remove the human component and what is the one aspect that enhances patient care and drives continuity and connectivity? The practice management system (PMS) serves that role and grounds the health care team.
Why you should offer day admissions at your vet practiceAugust 11, 2016A panicked pet owner calls you after cleaning up vomit and diarrhea. His dog devoured a platter of hamburgers and hotdogs during a backyard barbeque. Communicate your eagerness to help. Tell the caller, “I’m sorry to hear that your pet is sick. Let me see how we can help you today.”
