Beth and David close out the year with a practical, numbers-forward conversation on what veterinary practices should review at year-end and carry into 2026. They break down a simple “effective doctor compensation” check (W-2 vs. production) to validate pay math, spot inequities, and reduce associate turnover risk. They also highlight how routine, short 1:1 check-ins can uncover issues early and strengthen culture—especially when production starts trending down for reasons no one sees on the surface.
Next, David introduces a Practice Price Index (PPI): a quick spreadsheet method using ~50 internal supply items to quantify cost creep and guide fee updates over time (without putting the burden solely on the owner). They wrap with a challenge for 2026: use your practice management software for inventory—even if you start small with flea/tick/heartworm—plus a reminder that vendor and lab agreements are negotiable. Overall, the episode is a clear roadmap for protecting margins, supporting teams, and building a more stable practice year-over-year.