leadership
After Action Reviews
A Peak Performance Tool
by Joel C . Small , DDS and Mac McDonald , DDS
Peak performance is defined as a state of optimal functioning and flow . Like a finely tuned Swiss watch , when we operate at our peak , all parts of a clinical practice function flawlessly and in perfect harmony . Those aspiring to reach peak performance must have a vision of what peak performance looks like . This is a responsibility of the owner / doctor who must collaborate with their staff to create a vision of this desired result .
Another effective tool for achieving peak performance is one that has been utilized by the U . S . Armed Forces and is called an “ After Action Review ”, or AAR . The Navy SEALs use the AAR as a means of fine-tuning future operations . By conducting an in-depth post-mission review , the Seals capitalize on the positive aspects of a mission or correct the underlying causes that led to a less than desirable result . Marcus Luttrell , the Lone Survivor , a highly decorated Navy SEAL , and American patriot , is quoted as saying that the After Action Review is as important as the action itself .
We have worked with clients to implement a shorter , yet equally as effective form of the AAR for clinical dental practices . Unlike the AAR utilized by the U . S . military which entails extensive reporting and paperwork , the review that we have designed for dental practices should take no more than five minutes either at the end of the day or at the beginning of the following workday . We have found the AAR to be invaluable in moving an entire team towards peak performance . Not only does the AAR serve to create individual accountability for a team ’ s performance , but even more importantly it shines a light on practice systems and protocols that often are hindering our ability to reach peak performance .
Clients that have implemented AAR ’ s in their clinical practices are finding that their overall team performance is optimizing at a much faster pace than they thought possible . They are also finding that the AAR has allowed them to take a holistic view of their practice by seeing more clearly the interaction of the clinical and administrative practice functions and appreciating the necessity for creating more efficient and seamless systems that improve patient flow , increase productivity , and move the entire team toward peak performance .
The purpose of the AAR is to answer three questions :
Did our day go as we had planned ?
If so , why ?
If not , why not ?
The AAR starts with the team ’ s overall impression of the preceding workday . Did the preceding day go as planned , and what role did each individual team member play in achieving the
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