Recently while speaking at a meeting the question was raised “How do I know when it is time to add an associate?”   After a brief discussion the point was raised about volume.  The answer derived was based on the law of diminishing returns:

            “Adding an associate makes sense when your volume grows to the point

             you ability to maintain your PVV at or above the $90 to $110 level.  When

             you begin to have a decline in PVV your ability to treat patients effectively

             and efficiently is no longer occurring.  You (as the doctor) have become

             more concerned about the patient in the next room than the patient in front

             of you.  Therefore, adding an associate to see the excess patient load can

             result in growth for the practice, both economically and clinically.”

Think about it, you want to be paid for what you do and you want to do what is best for the patient. 

April 17, 2009