"Next Steps" The key in Getting Sh....Stuff Done

As veterinarians, we naturally excel in structured, step-by-step processes. When a patient comes into the clinic, we don’t just diagnose the issue and send them on their way. Instead, we follow a methodical process.

We identify the problem, create a treatment plan, and outline follow-up actions to ensure the best possible outcome. This approach ensures accountability, sets clear expectations, and builds trust with clients.

This same principle applies when managing your practice. Defining and acting on next steps creates clarity, drives progress, and strengthens team collaboration. Here’s why next steps are so vital.

Next steps establish accountability

When next steps are clearly defined, everyone understands their responsibilities. Just as a treatment plan ensures that a client knows when to administer medication or return for a follow-up, a practice team benefits from knowing their specific roles and deadlines. Without this clarity, tasks can fall through the cracks, and progress can stall.

They set clear expectations

Next steps outline exactly what needs to happen, who is responsible, and when it needs to be completed. In patient care, this might involve a discussion with a client about what to expect from a prescribed treatment. In practice management, it ensures that all team members are aligned and working toward a shared goal.

Next steps provide a roadmap

A clear plan breaks down a complex challenge into manageable actions. Without next steps, even the best goals can feel overwhelming and abstract. Whether improving team communication or streamlining operations, next steps turn aspirations into actionable progress.

They foster transparency

Transparency is critical in both patient care and team management. In patient care, you explain the diagnosis, discuss treatment options, and outline follow-up care. In practice management, defining next steps ensures that everyone understands the process and has the opportunity to contribute, building trust across the team.

Applying Next Steps in Practice Management

Let’s translate the step-by-step approach we use in veterinary care to managing a practice.

When a pet presents with symptoms, the first step is identifying the problem. For instance, if a dog comes in with lethargy, you conduct tests to uncover the underlying issue. Similarly, in your practice, you might notice symptoms like team disengagement, inefficiency, or burnout. Diagnosing the root cause is the first step toward solving these challenges.

Once the problem is identified, the next step is creating a treatment plan. If a client’s dog is diagnosed with an infection, you might prescribe antibiotics and recommend rest. In a practice setting, this might mean introducing team huddles to improve communication or delegating specific tasks to free up your time for strategic work.

The final step is defining follow-up actions. In patient care, this could mean scheduling a follow-up appointment to evaluate progress. In your practice, follow-up might involve checking in with the team to see how new processes are working or gathering feedback on recent changes.

Real-World Examples

If your team is struggling with communication, start by identifying the underlying issue. Perhaps team members feel excluded from important decisions or don’t understand their roles. The treatment plan might include implementing weekly team meetings to create an open forum for discussion. A follow-up step could involve checking in with the team after one month to assess whether the meetings are improving communication.

If you’re experiencing burnout from juggling clinical and administrative tasks, identify the tasks that are consuming the most time. Delegate some of these responsibilities to your practice manager and schedule regular check-ins to ensure a smooth transition. This approach not only alleviates stress but also empowers your team to take on more responsibility. If your practice is facing inefficiencies, start by reviewing workflows to identify bottlenecks.

For example, if client check-ins are slow, the treatment plan could involve creating a standardized procedure. Follow-up steps might include training the team on the new process and gathering feedback after implementation.

Moving Forward

Defining next steps is more than a management tool; it’s a mindset that drives clarity, accountability, and progress. Whether you’re treating patients or improving practice operations, success comes from taking purposeful, well-defined actions.

Take a moment to assess your practice. What’s one challenge you’re currently facing? Identify the problem, create a plan, and define the next step. Acting on it today could be the beginning of meaningful progress tomorrow.

Success, like patient recovery, is achieved step by step. With each next step, you move closer to your goals, creating a practice that thrives on clarity, trust, and collaboration.