The Dental Office Design Competition, sponsored by Wells Fargo Practice Finance, Dental Economics and the American Dental Association, was initiated in 1999 as an inspiration and learning tool for dentists planning to build or remodel their own practices. Since then, over 60 practices across the country – from small solo offices with modest budgets, to large group practices employing multiple doctors – have won the prestigious DODC award for the outstanding execution of their design objectives.
What can you learn from these design winners about creating or updating your own practice? Following are some words of advice from the 2014 winners of the Dental Office Design Competition.
Build with the future in mind
According to Craig Spodak of Spodak Dental Group in Delray Beach, Florida, 2014 winner of the Dental Office Design of the Year – Group Practice, it’s important to understand where you want to be in the future in order to achieve a truly functional design. In expanding his facility to 13,000 square feet with 18 operatories, Dr. Spodak focused on incorporating all dental specialties, an on-site lab, and a modern sterilization lab in the group practice design in order to provide comprehensive services to his patients now, and in the future.
Visit other dental practices
Eric To, DDS, of Parklane Dental, Arcadia, California, 2014 winner of the Dental Office Design of the Year – Small Practice award, recommends visiting and examining as many dental offices as possible to learn both the advantages and drawbacks of different layouts and designs. According to Dr. To, no one design is perfect for all practice scenarios, as different patient demographics and markets will have varying standards and requirements.
Know your equipment
To also advises that you thoroughly know how to proficiently use your office equipment, including computer and telephone systems, to determine their best possible location within the practice. Plan the equipment placement and office layout around your patients’ and staff’s habits.
Focus on your patients
And finally, as Dr. Spodak puts it, the main focus of your design efforts should be how you can deliver the best care to your patients. Always make their needs your first priority and continually strive to exceed their expectations.
For more advice and to learn more about all from past winners, visit https://practicefinance.wellsfargo.com/dentists/dental-office-design/
