While many components contribute to the overall success or failure of a prediatric practice, PMI has noticed that physicians who are best at running practices are typically those who function as a “quarterback”. These physicians can gracefully manage the business side of the practice while continuing to see patients and ensure that everything is running smoothly to provide a medical home to patients. This role of “quarterback” is typically filled by someone who is a major player or leader within day-to-day patient interactions and execution of patient care.
When a small practice has a quarterback who is exceptional at their job, it can lead to increased growth of the practice. This type of growth is a great opportunity for the practice, but caution should be taken to make sure it is managed appropriately. Often, such leaders need to evaluate whether or not the path that lead to the practice’s current successful position is the same approach moving forward. It is not unusual that over time the complexity and time it takes to run a larger practice requires a shift in strategy. This shift in strategy encourages the practice to take their experienced quarterback and change their role to the “coach” helping others to execute the plays necessary to maintain the practice’s success.
In established practices, there may be a “managing partner” who is nearing retirement or working with another physician who is ready for a new challenge. Is there an opportunity to provide coaching for the future leaders of your practice? If so, why not let them get in the game while you coach them to success?
The role of “coach” could be filled by the former “quarterback”, but they must be willing to transition functions and refrain from micro-managing in order to be truly successful. As a coach, it is that person’s responsibility to surround themselves with competent people, trust them, and coach them to success. The role of the coach becomes less hands-on, but just as important to the overall success of the practice.
As a practice leader, one should take the time to determine if you are a coach or a quarterback. Would transitioning to coach and leveraging those around you allow your practice to grow? Who knows, maybe there’s a rising quarterback in your midst who can fill your role and carry your practice forward.