Automated telephone attendants

Written by Reed Tinsley, CPA | October 22, 2008

I called a physician office the other day and was greeted by the automated telephone attendant, which I don't mind in many cases, But this one droaned on and on with prompts, which I don't like. I understand why a practice would want a lot of prompts but they are a pain in the ass! Put yourself in the shoes of a patient - would you like to sit there and listen to all of that? Most would not and all it leads to is patient dissatisfaction.

So if you are going to have an automated telephone attendant,

1. Keep a tight set minimum prompts;

2. Always have the option to hit "0" for a receptionist.

About the Author

Reed Tinsley CPA

This article is written by Reed Tinsley, a Houston, TX-based CPA with over 30 years of experience advising physicians and medical practices across Texas and the United States. Reed holds certifications as a Certified Valuation Analyst (CVA), Certified Healthcare Business Consultant (CHBC), and Certified Financial Planner (CFP), specializing exclusively in the healthcare sector. He is a published author, nationally recognized speaker, and trusted advisor to physicians on accounting & tax, practice management, and financial planning. Schedule a Free Consultation.

Have questions? I’m here to help.

Categories
Accounting and Tax Services Litigation Support Managed Care Consulting Managed Care Contract Negotiations Medical Practice and Healthcare Entity Valuation Medical Practice Assessment Medical Practice Brokerage Medical Practice Embezzlement Consulting Medical Practice Management Medical Practice Merger Advice Medical Strategic Planning Newsletter Personal Financial Planning Oversight Physician Compensation Models Physician Compliance Physician Financial Management Services Retirement Uncategorized