Veterinary software, by design, is meant to simplify numerous tasks in veterinary practice. Streamlining processes such as billing, inventory management, patient care, medical records, financials, and scheduling are just a few features that most veterinary software platforms offer. Whether you are a solo practitioner or an owner of a multi-location practice, veterinary software can be a timesaving and profit-increasing tool. Recently I had a conversation with a practice owner that shared that they were trying to justify the expense of subscribing to a software platform for their practice. That conversation is the inspiration for this blog. When used effectively, software is an asset, not an expense.
Many practices and team members only use a few essential veterinary practice management software functions. Even as an avid user of veterinary software, I still find features that I never knew existed or that do more than I even thought possible. Training new users in all aspects of the software areas (modules) they will use daily is imperative. For more experienced users, refresher courses can be helpful as software is continually being developed and improved. New features are constantly being added and released. Team members need to understand the capabilities that your practice management software offers.
A great example is the inventory management module found in most practice management software. Initially, the setup of the inventory process can seem overwhelming, causing many managers to choose only to use specific functions. Not using the available software functions significantly impacts management’s ability to forecast stock levels, reorder points, waste, usage, accurate pricing, margin, and profit. When team members revert to the old pen-and-paper approach, efficiency is compromised, and the software loses value. As a result, practices will see an increase in the cost of goods sold. A typical practice spends 18 to 25 dollars on inventory for every 100 dollars in revenue. Inventory is the second largest expense, second only to payroll. Reducing inventory costs is only one way that practice management software can assist your practice. We will explore more areas in future blogs.
Your practice management software company is a most valued resource. Look to them as a partner in your success instead of thinking of them as simply a software provider. Your software provider should be a source of education, solutions, and operational support. Most will work with you to customize features specific to your practice needs.
For more information on how Business Infusions can support your practice or to schedule a demo, please contact us at: businessinfusions.com or hvmssoftware.com
By Cynthia Bain
