ORTHODONTIC OFFICE DESIGN

The high cost of remodeling, building, and keeping up with technology has an impact on how much you can afford to pay for an orthodontic practice. This section includes four articles. The first article in the series, “Organizing an Office Construction Project” by Haeger, provides the practice purchaser with a roadmap toward budgeting for any modifications required in the new practice. This article and the accompanying downloadable Excel file (www.jco-online.com/media/36836/office-construction-worksheet.xlsx) walk you through the construction process—including technology, interior design, contractor considerations, and office budget—culminating in a remodeling worksheet that allows you to assess the cash flow of your new office. The Excel file provides a quick overview of construction costs that will impact your loan request, preparing you to show the banker that you are a serious candidate for the best interest rate. The next article, Hamula’s “Remodeling Options and Solutions” is a good overview of the steps involved in office construction. Disregard the dated photos, but pay close attention to Dr. Hamula’s treatment of the scope of the project, including finishes, lighting, patient flow, curb appeal, ceiling, and indoor environment (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning). Read the next article, “Creating Your Next Office” by Hamula and Bucher, with a scratch pad or computer handy. There are several pearls of wisdom that you will want to discuss with your contractor and will make you think about your current use of technology. Another article by Dr. Hamula, “Attracting New Patients to Your Practice,” focuses on the importance of esthetics, from exterior presentation through patient perception of your interior ambience. A pleasant appearance will immediately create a positive state of mind for new patients, which is so important when decisions are made within seconds of entering your office.

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