Take It From An Old Timer: Five Things a New DC Should Not Forget

Drawing from years of experience, a veteran chiropractor offers five essential pieces of advice for new doctors entering the profession. First, he urges them not to skimp on insurance, emphasizing the need for property and casualty coverage in addition to malpractice, as patient falls and other accidents can happen. Second, he encourages new DCs to take basic life support (CPR) training seriously, sharing a personal story of using the Heimlich maneuver to save a life, proving its real-world value. Third, he reminds practitioners that they are business owners and should invest in business acumen, suggesting a coach to help with oft-neglected areas like staff management and tax planning. Fourth, maintaining a current, professional headshot is crucial in today's digital world to project a modern and credible image. Lastly, he advises doctors to regularly see their office through a patient's eyes. Small details, like dust on an adjusting table or cobwebs in a light fixture, are easily overlooked by staff but quickly noticed by patients, impacting their perception of the clinic's professionalism. These timeless tips highlight that a successful practice is built not only on clinical skill but also on preparedness, business savvy, and meticulous attention to detail.