Top 20 Interview Questions & Answers for Practice Manager Roles - 2025

As a practice manager, you play a crucial role in overseeing the smooth operation of a medical or dental practice. To ensure you have the necessary skills and experience for this role, here are 20 interview questions and answers that cover a wide range of areas, including leadership, communication, and problem-solving.

General Questions

• 1. Tell me about your previous experience as a practice manager.
  As a practice manager, I have been responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of a medical or dental practice. This includes managing staff, handling patient inquiries, maintaining facilities, and ensuring compliance with regulations and policies.
  
  
• 2. How would you handle a difficult situation with a staff member?
  In my previous role, I encountered a situation where a staff member was consistently arriving late. I addressed the issue privately and discussed the importance of punctuality and its impact on the rest of the team. I also offered to be flexible with their schedule if needed. This approach helped improve their behavior without damaging our working relationship.
  
  
• 3. How do you stay updated on regulations and policies in the medical/dental field?
  I regularly attend workshops and conferences related to the medical/dental field to stay updated on the latest regulations and policies. I also make use of online resources and networks with other practice managers to share information and best practices.
  
  
• 4. How do you handle conflicts or disagreements within a team?
  I believe in open communication and fostering a positive work environment. When a conflict or disagreement arises, I address it promptly and encourage all parties to share their perspectives. I work towards finding a resolution that benefits everyone involved and promotes teamwork.

Behavioral Questions

• 5. Can you describe a time when you had to handle a difficult patient or client?
  In my previous role, I had a patient who was dissatisfied with their treatment and demanded a refund. I listened to their concerns with empathy and explained our policies while offering to rectify the situation. Ultimately, we were able to find a solution that satisfied the patient and maintained a positive relationship with them.
  
  
• 6. Tell me about a time when you had to handle a crisis or unexpected situation in the practice.
  I once had a power outage during a busy day in the practice. I quickly assessed the situation and made arrangements for backup power. I then communicated with the team and patients to keep them informed and ensure their safety. By remaining calm and proactive, we were able to continue operations with minimal disruption.
  
  
• 7. How do you prioritize tasks and manage your time effectively?
  In my role, there are always multiple tasks that require immediate attention. I prioritize by assessing the urgency and impact of each task and delegate when necessary. I also make use of tools such as to-do lists and calendars to stay organized and ensure all tasks are completed efficiently.
  
  
• 8. Share an experience where you implemented a new process or procedure that improved productivity or efficiency within the practice.
  In my previous role, I noticed that patient wait times were increasing due to a lack of organization in the reception area. I implemented a system to track check-ins and streamline the waiting process. This resulted in a significant decrease in wait times and improved overall patient satisfaction.

Technical Skills & Experience

• 9. How familiar are you with medical/dental billing and coding?
  I have extensive experience with medical/dental billing and coding, including using software such as [insert software name]. I am well-versed in insurance policies and regulations and have a high accuracy rate in my coding.
  
  
• 10. How do you ensure compliance with HIPAA regulations within the practice?
  I prioritize regular training and reminders for all staff on HIPAA regulations and conduct audits to ensure compliance. I also maintain strict protocols for handling patient information and regularly review and update our policies to align with any changes in regulations.
  
  
• 11. How do you handle inventory and supply management within the practice?
  I have experience in managing inventory and supplies within the practice, including ordering, tracking, and monitoring usage. I also negotiate with vendors to ensure competitive pricing and quality products for the practice.
  
  
• 12. Describe your experience with managing and overseeing a team of medical/dental staff.
  As a practice manager, I have experience in managing and overseeing a team of medical/dental staff, including hiring, training, and conducting performance evaluations. I believe in leading by example and fostering a positive and productive work environment.

Situational Questions

• 13. How would you handle a situation where a patient was being verbally abusive to staff?
  In this situation, I would first ensure the safety and well-being of my staff by intervening and removing them from the situation. I would then calmly address the patient and explain that their behavior is not tolerated in the practice and request that they leave. If needed, I would escalate the situation to appropriate authorities or seek support from colleagues.
  
  
• 14. If a staff member comes to you with a complaint or grievance, how would you handle it?
  I would first listen to their concerns and validate their feelings. I would then gather more information and investigate the issue before addressing it with the person or department involved. I would also follow up with the staff member to ensure their concerns have been resolved.
  
  
• 15. How do you handle conflicts between colleagues or departments within the practice?
  When conflicts arise, I encourage open communication and seek to understand the root cause of the issue. I then work with all parties to find a resolution and facilitate productive and respectful communication going forward.

Cultural Fit Questions

• 16. How do you ensure a positive and inclusive work environment within the practice?
  I believe in creating a supportive and inclusive work environment by promoting open communication, diversity, and mutual respect. I make a conscious effort to listen to and understand the perspectives of my team and strive to foster a sense of belonging for everyone.
  
  
• 17. How do you prioritize and promote patient satisfaction in the practice?
  Patient satisfaction is a top priority for me, and I ensure this by regularly seeking feedback, addressing any issues or concerns promptly, and ensuring that our team provides high-quality care and service to all patients.
  
  
• 18. How do you stay updated with the latest developments and advancements in the medical/dental field?
  I prioritize continuous learning and staying updated on the latest developments and advancements in the field by attending seminars, networking, and subscribing to industry publications and online resources.

Additional Questions

• 19. Can you describe a successful project or initiative you led in your previous role as a practice manager?
  In my previous role, I led a project to implement a new electronic medical records system. I coordinated with all departments and provided training to staff to ensure a smooth transition. The project was completed within the set timeframe and resulted in a significant increase in productivity and accuracy.
  
  
• 20. What do you find most fulfilling about being a practice manager?
  I find satisfaction in knowing that I am contributing to a smooth and efficient practice that provides high-quality care to its patients. I also enjoy the challenges and variety of responsibilities that come with the role and the opportunity to lead and support a dedicated team.