Although we are always taught not to judge a book by its cover we all know how important first impressions are, it’s up to you and your design team to ensure your first impression counts.
When designing or refurbishing your practice try to imagine the patient journey throughout the practice, from seeing the practice on the high street or on the web, to arriving in your waiting room. Consider the atmosphere you want to create for the practice and remember that every detail counts from sign writing on the outside of the building, to a coordinated reception area which reflects your branding and is attractive to existing and potential patients.
Take a look at some of our past projects; the atmospheres created at each of the practices are very different but all create an attractive and inviting atmosphere for patients.
Lighting is one of the magic ingredients of a welcoming impression for any dental practice. We offer all sorts of lighting options, but the lighting you choose largely depends on the kind of mood your after. Low, warm lighting offers a homely feel which may add to the charm of your practice particularly if the building is an old character full property or if you are going for a more homely feel. On the other hand soft, bright light can offer a sense of calm and spot lighting can give a modern, fresh feel to the practice.
The next step is creating an inviting waiting area. What makes an attractive reception area? Think clutter free spaces, comfortable seating, a welcoming reception desk, a friendly greeting to each customer, fresh magazines, fresh flowers or big bold plants…
Your reception area is one of your first points of contact your patients will have with your practice, therefore it is imperative that the right image is achieved to ensure patients are greeted with a positive first impression that makes them feel at ease. Read More…
When we walk down the high street or visit a retailer online, we make split second decisions as to whether we step foot in the door or make the all important second click on a website. Dental practices are no different to any other business, they must compete for patients like a high street shop competes for its customers.
So where should your patient journey start? We believe that the patient journey starts even before a customer sets foot in your business and this is why as much thought and consideration should be put into designing outdoor signage and immediate reception areas, as is given to ergonomics in the surgery or workflow in the decontamination suite.
