Dion Nugent, president of Forté Systems, San Ramon, Calif

Managing a practice is becoming more and more difficult for chiropractors. Not only do DCs need to care for their patients, they also need to be business savvy. Chiropractic Products asked Dion Nugent, president of Forté Systems, San Ramon, Calif, about what DCs need to know when purchasing practice management software.

What advice do you have for new practitioners shopping for management software?

Selecting the right practice management software can be overwhelming. To ensure that DCs make the right decision, keep it simple. Start by making a needs list, which should contain all that you expect from the software. If you are not certain which program to buy, ask your colleagues. If possible, talk to CAs, because they can provide critical insight.

Call the companies recommended with your needs list in hand. Once you identify a product that matches your needs, request a trial version and literature package. Most programs range from $99—$5000. If you are a new DC, buy only what you need to get started and upgrade later. Look for a product that includes technical support with the sale. Also, ask if they offer a new doctor. discount. Remember, the cheapest is not always the best.

For established practitioners?

For the established doctor, I recommend the same process with one exception. Use your trend line to buy the software that you project you will need in a year. If your past has shown that your statistics are on the rise, prepare by purchasing software that will accommodate your current and future needs. If your practice has been consistent for quite some time, think about time management and find a software package that will free you from distractions.

What software tool have you found to be the most effective for DC practitioners? Why?

The Chiro 7000 Plus is by far our most popular product. It is reasonably priced and includes training and support. This tool manages the needs of virtually all types of practices. The most popular features are advanced appointment calendar, automated soap notes, narrative report writer, and the accelerated accounts receivable module. This product is HIPAA compliant and electronic billing ready.

Tell us about the history of Forté Systems and its products.

Forté Systems flagship product line, Chiro 7000, was designed and engineered by a chiropractor who wanted to enhance the potential of his practice by combining the benefits of computer automation with the basics of practice management. In 1987, Medical Business Automation (MBA) was formed by 4 entrepreneurs from various backgrounds (engineering, marketing, finance, and business). MBA began development of its Windows® version of the Chiro 7000 and became a Microsoft Systems Service Provider. This partnership was the beginning of the Microsoft and MBA engineering team. In 2001, MBA executives assemble an employee buyout: enter Forté Systems, a privately-held corporation owned by its employees, who not only care about its customers but thrive on their satisfaction.

Tell us about Forté's commitment to the chiropractic profession.

The complexity of your practice is managed by the simplicity of our software. Our company exists because of the trust that we build with our clients and our DCs know that they are number one on our list. We offer solutions that increase productivity, save time, and decrease stress.

What do you see for the future of chiropractic?

So many before us have fought so hard for so long to pave the way for those who practice today. The pendulum has definitely swung, but the fight is far from over. My contribution will be the promise to build the best chiropractic practice management software to allow DCs to focus on prevention, education, and healing their patients. By simplifying the complexities of business management, I see a future where DCs are free to practice the art, philosophy, and science of chiropractic. CP