Issue link: https://viewer.e-digitaledition.com/i/334922
IN TODAY'S ECONOMY, EVERY business is trying to figure out ways to become more efficient, stay more produc- tive and incur lower costs. Most corporate real estate decision makers are moving away from the rows of big private execu- tive offices to an open, collaborative floor plan. Some companies are even hoteling or sharing workstations for employees who may frequently be in and out of the office. These concepts are great ways to reduce a business's required square footage for opera- tion and greatly reduce what is typically its second highest expense — real estate. Corporate America and the average medical practice share the desire to lower overhead, but for countless reasons, medical practices will not subject you to a shared exam cubicle instead of an exam room for your next checkup. This is a bit of a setback for savings, but there are some solutions. Whether you're a sole practitioner, a practice manager or a hospital COO, you need to consult with an expert. Healthcare Architects If you a re in a n office that your practice is outgrowing, or your lease is coming up and you are swimming in your space, you have several options for a solution. Consulting with an architect who specializes in healthcare design can be a great step in the right direction. A good architect will be sav v y about the cutting-edge trends of healthcare efficiencies and can discuss ways to either rework your space to accom- modate more need or help reduce your footprint. A good rule of thumb when determining if your space is efficient is to ask yourself how long you have been in your current space. If you have to scratch your head or ask the other doctors, you probably have outdated space! Not that there is anything wrong with shag carpet or wood paneling, but better use of your space can lead to more revenue and less operating expenses. Storage Specialists If your practice hasn't already con- verted to an electronic medical record (EMR) system, it is required by federal mandate to convert by this year. Even with a good EMR system in place, your practice still needs a place for some fil- ing and storage of other miscellaneous supplies. A storage solution specialist can determine a way to incorporate a significant amount of storage without taking up a lot of space. I have had several clients over the years that were Your Medical Office Space Effectively Using +++++++++++++++++++ + +++ + +++ +++++++++++++++++++ REAL ESTATE By Brian M. Balash 1 8 | Central New York MD NEWS ■ M D N E W S . CO M