
Team members often walk away from continuing education classes inspired and excited about what they learned. Unfortunately, once they get back to work and their busy schedule takes over, typically most of what they learned is not implemented into the practice.
If you want your practice receive the maximum benefit from continuing education courses it is important to invest time beyond just attending the class. The information should be shared among the team, and there needs to be a concerted effort to determine what can be applied to your practice and how you are going to make it happen.
There are four key steps to help ensure your practice is taking full advantage of continuing education opportunities.
- Share the Knowledge: Set-up a team meeting within one week of the continuing education course. This ensures that the person who attended the class can present their take-a-ways to the rest of the team while it is still fresh in their mind.
- Team Collaboration: Based on what was presented, discuss as a group what should be implemented within the practice.
- Make a Plan: Create an action plan with specific due dates for each step of the process.
- Review: Once implemented, set a date in the near future to review the new protocols and collaborate as needed to ensure success.
There are many great continuing education courses available to dental professionals. By applying the knowledge gained from these courses to your practice, you will ensure continued growth into the future.