If You’re Running a Chiropractic Practice, Read This
If you’re like most chiropractors I know, you’ve probably faced moments where you feel like your business is running you—not the other way around. You’ve got patients falling off the schedule, missed appointments, and a to-do list that never seems to shrink. Sound familiar?
Here’s the thing: you’re not alone. But the good news? There’s a better way to run your practice, and it starts with tackling one thing—waste.
The Problem You Might Be Overlooking
In chiropractic businesses, waste shows up in ways you might not immediately notice. It’s the patient who leaves without scheduling a follow-up. It’s the reminder calls that don’t get made. It’s the missed leads from Facebook ads because someone didn’t call them back fast enough.
And let’s be honest—waste isn’t just frustrating. It’s expensive. It costs you time, energy, and money that could be better spent building the practice you dreamed of when you first started.
The Wake-Up Call: NFAs and DNAs
Here’s a term you need to know: NFAs (No Future Appointments). These are patients who leave your office without booking their next visit. And every single one of them is an opportunity slipping through the cracks.
Another one? DNAs (Did Not Arrives). These are patients who no-show for their appointments, whether it’s their first visit or their fifteenth. Every missed visit is a hit to your schedule—and your bottom line.
But here’s the kicker: these aren’t just unavoidable facts of practice life. They’re areas where you can get better.
What Are You Doing About It?
Be honest—how often does your team sit down and talk about NFAs and DNAs? Do you have systems in place to follow up with these patients?
Here’s the thing: following up isn’t easy. Research shows it takes six attempts—yes, six—on average to get someone on the phone. And that’s just the beginning. But without persistence, you’re leaving patients behind and potential revenue on the table.
Why Waste Isn’t Just About Systems
When we talk about waste, it’s not just about operational inefficiencies—it’s about how your team works together.
For example, how many of you have experienced the chaos of too many ideas and no decisions? As chiropractors, we’re often visionaries. We love brainstorming new strategies, but without a clear plan and team buy-in, those ideas can create more noise than progress.
The solution? A simple concept: “Disagree, but commit.” Not every team member will agree on every decision—and that’s okay. What matters is that once a decision is made, everyone commits to it fully.
The Fix: Focus, Fast Action, and Follow-Through
If you’re ready to reduce waste and build a more efficient practice, here’s where to start:
- Re-engage Patients:
- Make it a priority to follow up with NFAs and DNAs. Don’t let them fall through the cracks.
- Improve Your Systems:
- Are reminder calls happening consistently? Are you contacting Facebook leads within five minutes of them submitting a form? Those small changes can make a huge difference.
- Team Alignment:
- Foster a culture where decisions are made quickly, and everyone commits to the plan. Even if the decision isn’t perfect, acting fast allows you to pivot sooner if needed.
- Patient Connection:
- Sometimes, the most effective action is the simplest. Call your patients, check in on them, and show you care. Building relationships will always pay off.
The Bottom Line
Running a chiropractic practice doesn’t have to feel like an uphill battle. By reducing waste, streamlining systems, and fostering teamwork, you can create a practice that’s not only profitable but fulfilling.
So, ask yourself: where can you cut the waste in your business? What changes can you make today to build a stronger, more sustainable practice tomorrow?
Watch the Full Youtube Video Attached Below:
Love and Light,
Ry
