Sheila Grosdidier, RVT, has worked in the field of veterinary medicine for over 30 years. She earned her B.S. degree in Human Behavioral Science at New York Institute of Technology and her A.A. in Veterinary Technology at Maple Woods College. She has completed post-graduate work in psychology and adult learning and has authored textbook chapters on professional development, practice management and nutrition. Most recently she co-authored 

The Art of Veterinary Practice Management, 2nd Edition

As a partner at VMC Inc. in Evergreen, Colo., Ms. Grosdidier conducts extensive on-site consultations with veterinary practices. She is a frequent speaker at the Fetch dvm360 conferences. and she's a member of the 

Q How many incoming phone lines does my practice need for each veterinarian? 

Sheila Grosdidier, RVT, a consultant with VMC Inc. in Evergreen Colo., offers these general phone line rules. 

 Plan for one phone line for each full-time veterinarian, plus one. "So, if you have three full-time veterinarians, you generally need four phone lines," she says. 

 Consider a line utilization study. Many phone companies will do one if asked. "This study analyzes the call volume on your lines in 30-minute increments and highlights the need for additional lines or other phone services such as DSL," Grosdidier says. 

 Don't split a phone line with a credit card machine. "You don't want to be without the ability to process charges when you need it," she says. 

 Don't ignore a busy signal. "If you hear clients are getting a busy signal, consider an additional phone line," says Grosdidier, "before they try another number—like the one for the clinic down the street." 

Grosdidier says to remember that these are general guidelines—and that the phone company can be a great resource for helping you get the most out of your phone system. 			

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Q: How many incoming phone lines does my practice need for each veterinarian?

Keep the lines open

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