The top things to consider when selecting new practice management software

Whether you are a new office searching for your first practice management software or an existing office considering a change, finding the right solution is important. This is a decision you will have to live with for a long time and it emanates into nearly every aspect of the dental office, from the front desk to the operatory.

So, how do you ensure that you make the right choice?

There are fundamental considerations to keep in mind when selecting the appropriate software to gear your office towards maximum success. The below considerations can help you guide you towards the best choice for your office.

Trending article: How Eaglesoft has helped one practice keep its focus where it should be: On patients

Functionality to meet current and future state

Software should meet both an office’s current needs and their future goals. It’s important that dental offices not choose a solution with limited possibilities. Once implemented, switching software can be difficult and costly.

When it comes to functionality, does this practice management solution allow for the most efficient ways to provide your patients with the care they need for years to come?

Consider:

· Are you planning on going completely paperless, including electronic charts?

· Will your images be electronic?

· What products does your software need to integrate today? What about in the future?

· How will you bill medical insurance companies? Do you plan to automate this process? Will all billing be electronically processed?

· Do you need to save existing paper files in your new electronic files?

· Do you need to store daily, weekly and monthly reports in the system?
Determine your needs and requirements in advance, and compare your preferences to the solutions offered by a new system. Assign values of importance to each preferred feature requirement on your list to make the most objective decision. Keep in mind that your practice needs will be constantly evolving, and you will want a system capable of growing with them.

Trending article: Patterson Dental's CEREC technology can streamline orthodontic treatment

Support, training and learning tools

Place the most advanced software in the hands of an inexperienced staff member and you will have problems. For this reason, it’s important that you are able to provide your team with the training tools needed to bring them up to speed.

You should also make sure that the resources your staff needs is available as long as you are using the software – not just when you initially onboard. Think about ongoing needs for continued education to improve software usage or what would happen when staff turnover occurs.

Consider:

Does your solution provider assist you every step of the way?

Is there a variety of different training methods available? Reliable resources should there to help you any time you need them, through various channels – online resources, real-time chat, on the phone, and in person.

If the product’s customer support team is unable to answer any of your preliminary questions, even the most seemingly perfect solution could be a bad investment. Confirm that the product comes from a company with an outstanding reputation in customer service and support.

Deciding which software program your office should adopt is not a decision to be made lightly. Be confident that your software provider will be the long term partner that your practice needs for success. Determine the solution that you would be happiest to use for years to come and confirm the company you are purchasing it from will be there to help you make the most out of your commitment and investment.