Change is hard, especially when it means upending something as foundational as your veterinary practice management software (PIMS). Changes to your software affect every employee, client, and pet, and altering workflows to change it may feel impossible.
On the other hand, sticking with outdated, inefficient software is more harmful to your business than the temporary inconvenience of switching.
In a world of rapidly advancing technology, clients – and team members – expect the modern conveniences that only a modern software solution can provide. Cloud-based systems like Provet Cloud are designed to reduce daily stressors and bond clients more strongly to your practice.
Here are five reasons why you shouldn’t be afraid to switch, and how a new system can benefit your team members.
1. Ongoing support can ease the transition
Switching software inevitably comes with a learning curve and significant changes to hospital workflows and protocols. Your team might initially struggle, but a solid support team backing your software can ease the transition.
Modern veterinary practice management software providers like Provet Cloud understand that support should continue long after initial onboarding and include:
- Comprehensive team training customized to each hospital role.
- An extensive support topics library.
- Live customer support to troubleshoot issues in real time.
- Dedicated account managers to guide you.
2. Built-in tools maximize efficiency
Traditional “legacy” systems may not integrate with third-party platforms you need for essential tasks, such as invoicing, scheduling, imaging, lab work, or client communication. When team members have to toggle back and forth between separate technology platforms, everyday tasks take longer and human error is more likely.
Cloud-based veterinary practice management systems have essential tools built in. They can also help your team adapt to innovations by allowing new integrations that don’t require server updates or paid upgrades.
Modern software can speed up daily processes by:
- Automating appointment reminders and communications
- Simplifying medical records with templates and artificial intelligence (AI)
- Processing multiple payment types in one place
3. Cloud-based systems enable remote work
Traditional practice management software is server-based, meaning you can access it only from the computers in your clinic, and setting up remote access is a complex process. Many also limit the number of workstations running at any given time. Adopting a cloud-based system opens a new world of possibilities for remote and hybrid schedules, something previously difficult to come by in the veterinary space. Offering more options can provide team members the flexibility they need to avoid burnout.
Additional benefits of moving your software to the cloud include:
- Access from anywhere with an internet connection
- Real-time updates from any workstation
- Automatic backups and improved security
4. Communication tools improve client relationships
Client communication is critical to practice success, yet many older veterinary practice management software systems have minimal or outdated tools for engaging pet owners. Clients who feel connected to the practice will be more likely to comply with recommendations and achieve the high level of patient care your team strives for.
Modern systems include built-in communication features, such as:
- Two-way texting for quick client updates
- Automated email reminders for appointments and overdue services
- Telemedicine capabilities for synchronous and asynchronous care
5. The cost of inaction is greater than the cost of change
While switching veterinary practice management software can feel insurmountable, sticking with an outdated system comes at a cost, whether by making more work than is necessary for your staff or by alienating clients (and even potential new employees) who expect a more tech-forward experience.
The status quo might feel easier now, but failing to evolve alongside technology means you may get left behind. A little discomfort now can bring greater success down the line.
Tangible benefits of switching veterinary practice management software
Switching sounds like a great idea on paper, but how does it translate to real life? For most veterinary team members, working with efficient software means they can do more during the workday, go home on time, and have less overall stress. Here are some concrete examples of how it could play out, and why you shouldn’t be afraid to switch:
- Front office team — Automation provides consistency for clients and reduces workload for the front office staff, resulting in fewer incidents with unhappy clients, less “phone fatigue,” and greater job satisfaction.
- Technicians and assistants — Seamless integrations provide a single workspace for all the tasks technicians handle each day, significantly reducing time demands. When things no longer pile up throughout the day, techs have more emotional and physical bandwidth to handle whatever comes through the door.
- Veterinarians — AI assistance allows veterinarians to complete charts in minutes instead of hours, so they can see more patients without getting bogged down by paperwork or stuck working long after their shift ends.
- Leadership — More flexible work options, including remote and hybrid schedules, help attract and retain employees. Instead of battling constant turnover, leaders can focus on cultivating a positive culture and making an impact in the community.
Key takeaways
- A software switch doesn’t have to be scary. You don’t have to fear switching veterinary practice management software when you choose a company that supports teams through onboarding and beyond.
- Modern systems can solve everyday problems. Cloud-based systems improve efficiency, security, communication, and day-to-day operations for every veterinary team member.
- Don’t risk getting left behind. The costs of taking on a new system, including time and financial commitments, are likely less than the effects of keeping an old system, including lost revenue, frustrated team members, and disconnected clients.
Switching to Provet Cloud
Slow software, tedious workflows, angry clients, late nights, or stagnated growth could mean it’s time for your clinic to make a change. Switching your PIMS is a major endeavor, but choosing the right system can ensure a smooth and easy process.
Book a demo with the Provet Cloud team to learn how our intuitive software and unique features can ease your fears.
