Creating and Maintaining a Successful Practice: My "Best Idea"

Editor's Note: Welcome to Dynamic Chiropractic Practice Insights "My Best Idea" column. An extension of our "Solutions" feature, this column provides a forum for an exceptional practitioner to share some of the secrets to their success.

While there are many factors that go into having a successful chiropractic clinic, I have found that the number one thing is comprised of three particular factors. The first factor is the use of acuscope/myopulse modalities.

The second factor is definitely result-oriented patient care. Perhaps the most important goal in any practice should be treating patients in the least number of treatments possible to get excellent results and a resolution to their condition. If no results are achieved within 4-6 treatments, it is important to either refer the patient out to a specialist or order additional diagnostic tests. We as chiropractors need to put more of an emphasis on ethical care, and not just financial care. The third factor is to utilize all the skills as a "Doctor" and not just an "Adjustor." Let's face it, there are many chiropractor's within every community, but what sets one apart from all others is the type of care you can offer patients that no other chiropractor can. This can be quite easy to do if you utilize all the skills learned in chiropractic school. What I mean by this is to become a holistic doctor who uses lab testing, myofascial trigger point therapy with the acuscope and myopulse, utilize the MRI, CT and EMG/NCV options sooner rather than later. And, perhaps most important, don't over treat your patients.

There are also two things I look at as practical milestones to measure my success in these areas. The first is patient outcomes, as I seek the least number of treatments to resolve their condition. The second is MD and patient referrals without having to advertise once in 20 years of practicing. Satisfied patients expect to be satisfied and may or may not refer; however, excited patients will definitely refer. By offering excellent outcomes in the shortest amount of time, and sometimes in one visit, you excite your patients.

My advice to other doctors of chiropractic is to find a niche you are comfortable with and know everything about it to the point that you own it and master it. Then, meet with MDs and PTs on the specific subject you own and ask them for referrals.

Once again, you must set yourself apart from the cliché chiropractor by offering the best outcomes in the least number of visits. I have met with more than 150 MDs and dozens of PTs, and the number one issue they have with DCs is that we keep treating without any objectivity.

What is your "Best Idea" for building a successful practice and maximizing patient care? Share it with your colleagues. Start by sending an e-mail to and we' ll send you details on how to contribute.

Dr. A.B. Morovati, DC, DAPPM operates the Morovati Chiropractic and Sports Injury Center in Glendale, Calif. He is a current member of the American Academy of Spine Physicians and is a graduate of Cleveland Chiropractic College and Loma Linda University. To learn more about Dr. Morovati's practice, visit www.morovati.com.