Smarter Staffing and Tech Choices That Pay Off

Episode Description

How should medical assistants actually be used in a busy podiatry practice—and how many do you really need per doctor? In this episode, listener questions drive a practical discussion on staffing ratios, task delegation, and in-room workflows that keep patient flow moving without burning out the doctor.

The conversation also covers why certain technologies like PAD testing were phased out, how ultrasound can directly increase treatment acceptance, and how to think about shockwave devices based on real-world use—not sales claims.

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Episode Breakdown & Timestamps

[00:00] Introduction & Practice Growth Focus

Framing the goal: moving established practices beyond the $1M mark toward $2M.

[00:55] Medical Assistant Staffing Ratios

Why a 1.5 MA-to-doctor ratio works in a high-volume environment.

[01:45] What Medical Assistants Handle Day-to-Day

Rooming patients, intake, X-rays, DME dispensing, and checkout.

[02:45] Managing Flow in a Busy Clinic

Seeing 24+ patients per day and how nail techs fit into the schedule.

[03:30] Virtual Scribes vs. MA Scribing

Using a long-term virtual scribe and why room size and workflow matter.

[04:35] Call Buttons and In-Room Support Systems

How discreet alert systems help staff assist without interrupting flow.

[05:30] Clinical Tasks the Doctor Retains

Dressings, cantharidin, salicylic acid, suture removal, and nail care support.

[06:15] Why PAD Testing Was Discontinued

Staff time, EMR limitations, low impact on referrals, and marginal ROI.

[07:40] Ultrasound as a Revenue and Education Tool

Using ultrasound to support diagnoses and increase shockwave acceptance.

[08:40] Shockwave Devices & Final Thoughts

Radial vs. focused shockwave, patient expectations, and closing remarks.

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Key Takeaway

Staff efficiency and technology decisions should be judged by workflow impact and return—not tradition, habit, or vendor promises.

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Conclusion

If these staffing or technology questions sound familiar, feedback and follow-up questions are encouraged. You can reach out by email or schedule a short strategy call to talk through your own practice setup. Listener questions help shape future episodes and keep the content practical and relevant.