FAQ

There really are only 2 questions:

1.  Why not close?

2.  How should one choose a provider?

1.  Remaining open to the public allows patients to continue their recommended treatment plan uninterrupted.  Required care does not simply go on hold while you are gone.  Patients respect and appreciate the fact that they are not abandoned during your absence.  Arranging to remain open during your absence is viewed as responsible and caring by your patients.

Also, your office remains available to establish new patient relationships while you are out of the office.  If your office is closed, a potential patient may end up in the office of another doctor.

Staff may remain productive both in the performance of administrative duties, and in income generation by delivering medically necessary services to patients.  If your office is closed, no billable services are performed by the staff you employ.  This usually translates into a financial loss for you (lost services) and/or your staff (lost wages).

Bottom line: People depend on you.  An office can only be efficient and productive by remaining open to service your community.

2.  All providers are not created equal.  And, though no provider can treat your patients exactly like you, there is certainly a broad spectrum of care possible.  You should be confident, and without anxiety, during your absence.

It is understandable that all people want the best "value" possible.  But, "price" is only one component of value.  The other component, that should be of greater priority, is "performance."

Price + Performance is how we all determine Value.  While there is always something cheaper, cheaper is not always the wisest course.  Ultimately, we usually get what we pay for.

In the office, cheaper usually translates into inferior patient care, reduced services, and a later decrease in compliancy. So, any money that is initially thought to be "saved," by going with the lowest bidder, will usually translate into a greater financial loss through inferior performance.

As when securing a new patient, the ideal environment for the office is created through the quality of your relationships.  Therefore, the establishment of a quality relationship with an experienced and professional peer is paramount during your absence.  Your selection will make an impression with both your staff, and patients.

A quality relationship, with this provider, will promote trust and confidence each time you are required to be out of the office.  

The alternative is to entrust your office, staff, and patients to anyone with a pulse and hope for the best.