The Relief Practice Manager Guide
How to keep your clinic running smoothly when leadership needs a breather
Running a healthcare or veterinary clinic means every role counts - especially leadership. When your practice manager takes leave, transitions roles, or you’re between hires, operations don’t pause. This guide explains how to bridge that gap effectively through relief or interim management, so your team and clients stay supported.
What a Relief or Interim Practice Manager Does
Keeps team morale steady and workflows consistent
Oversees scheduling, payroll, and vendor coordination
Maintains compliance and reporting standards
Supports leadership communication (MDVMs, Regional Managers, or owners)
Identifies process bottlenecks and opportunities for improvement
(For clinics under corporate groups like NVA, VetStrategy, or independent practices alike.)
When to Bring in Relief Management
During maternity or medical leave
Between permanent hires
After a clinic restructure or merger
When you need operational stabilization before growth
How It Works
Step 1: Discovery - We review your systems (Avimark, Cornerstone, etc.) and key processes.
Step 2: Transition Plan - A clear handover checklist ensures continuity.
Step 3: Management Support - Remote, hybrid, or on-site operational oversight.
Step 4: Debrief & Handoff - A clean closeout report and improvement roadmap.
Why Clinics Choose Lalonde Strategies
Experienced in corporate and independent practice structures
Rooted in operational empathy and evidence-based process design
Flexible engagement models: hourly, project-based, or short-term retainer
Focused on sustainable systems and team wellbeing
Common Questions
Q: Can you handle payroll, scheduling, and inventory remotely?
A: Yes - with secure remote access and clear delegation protocols.
Q: What’s the minimum engagement?
A: Typically 2-4 weeks, depending on the practice size and systems in place.
Q: Do you train the incoming manager?
A: We can support onboarding, documentation, and SOP alignment.
Start the Conversation
Your practice deserves operational calm - even when transitions happen.
Let’s discuss how we can bridge your next gap seamlessly.
Further reading
This guide was prepared by Lalonde Strategies Inc., a North American management consulting firm specializing in operational stability and leadership support for healthcare, dental, and veterinary practices.
