The veterinary industry has been experiencing a shift in patient visit volumes, with recent reports showing a decline in the average number of visits. According to a recent article in Veterinary Information Network (VIN), this trend has been observed across many practices, prompting concerns about how to adapt.
If your veterinary practice has noticed a drop in appointments, or if you’re coming off a period of overwhelming demand, now is the perfect time to re-evaluate your strategies and make key adjustments.
If You’re Getting Back to Normal Levels
Were you overwhelmed with the sheer number of appointments over the past few years? If so, this slowdown might be a welcome reprieve, giving you a chance to focus on enhancing your practice’s efficiency and strategic goals. This is a great opportunity to take a step back, breathe, and consider the changes that could take your practice to the next level.
Here are some ideas to help you make the most of this period:
- Evaluate Your Software and Workflow Integrations: Now is the time to implement any new software solutions that could improve your practice’s efficiency. Consider adding microchip integrations, telemedicine offerings, or online ordering systems (like the new Vetsource / NaVetor integration) to streamline processes and enhance client convenience. Telemedicine and online ordering, in particular, may create new revenue streams for your practice.
- Reassess Staffing Needs: Take a look at your team structure. Would additional staffing or a revision of team roles help you deliver better service or gain more efficiency? Consider cross-training your team members to increase their versatility and improve overall productivity.
- Implement Time-Saving Automations: Technology can be a game-changer when it comes to saving time in daily operations. Dictation software, AI scribe tools, and other efficiency solutions can help reduce the burden of administrative tasks, allowing your team to focus more on patient care.
- Focus on Strategic Priorities: With a more manageable workload, you can prioritize the projects and goals that you’ve been putting off. Whether it’s updating your practice’s technology, searching for new practice management software, or developing new service offerings, use this time to invest in initiatives that will improve your competitive position and benefit your business in the long run.
If your practice’s revenue and profitability are holding steady despite the lower visit volume, take this as an opportunity to refine and elevate your practice rather than worrying about the slowdown.
If You’re Not Busy Enough
If you’ve seen a significant drop in patient visits and it’s affecting your bottom line, it’s time to focus on proactive strategies to attract more business to your practice.
Here are some actionable steps to get more clients through the door:
- Revamp Client Communication and Reminders: Effective communication can make a significant difference in client engagement. Reach out to lapsed clients with special offers or incentives to encourage them to return. Consider launching a monthly newsletter packed with pet health tips to keep your clients informed and engaged. Also, review your reminder protocol to ensure you’re maximizing its potential; a clean, consistent reminder system can significantly increase appointment bookings (for more on this, see this recent blog post).
- Enhance Your Digital Presence: Your online footprint plays a crucial role in attracting new clients. Ensure that your practice is easily searchable and stands out in your local market. Investing in search engine optimization (SEO) for your website, maintaining an active presence on social media, and encouraging satisfied clients to leave positive online reviews can all help set your practice apart from competitors.
- Stand Out in Your Market: Differentiate your practice by emphasizing what makes you unique. Whether it’s specialized services, flexible appointment scheduling, or a focus on customer service, highlight your strengths in your marketing materials to attract clients who value those qualities.
Adapting to fluctuations in veterinary visit volumes requires a combination of flexibility, strategy, and focus on client engagement. Whether you’re experiencing a slowdown or struggling to bring in enough patients, the key is to use this time to refine your practice’s approach and invest in long-term improvements. By staying proactive and adjusting your strategies to fit the current trends, your veterinary practice can continue to thrive despite the evolving landscape.