According to Forbes, 26.9% of business is conducted online. This is why fast internet is so important, and is just as essential for your chiropractic clinic as a good drop table and modern diagnostic tools.

Slow internet really impacts how your clinic runs. This article shows you how to run an internet speed test so that you can see just how fast your internet really is.

Testing your clinic’s internet speed

You might not realise your clinic’s internet isn’t performing as expected until it starts causing problems. Running a speed test is simple and takes less than a minute, ensuring you have the most effective connection. How can you do it?

Swoop’s Speed Test

  • Test on a wired connection if possible
  • Close unnecessary apps and devices
  • Run tests at different times of the day
  • Compare results with your plan (check if your speeds are consistently lower than what your provider promises, e.g. are you on a 100 Mbps plan?)

swoop's internet speed test website

Understanding your speed test results

Once you’ve run the test, you’ll see key metrics:

  • Download speed (Mbps) – This affects how fast data is delivered to your business, impacting things like cloud applications, file downloads, and video streaming.
  • Upload speed (Mbps) – This measures how fast you can send data. If your business relies on video conferencing, large file uploads, or VoIP calls, high upload speeds are essential.
  • Ping (latency) (ms) – This determines how quickly data travels between your device and the server. Low ping is crucial for real-time applications like video conferencing and VoIP calls.
  • Jitter (ms) – This measures the consistency of your connection. High jitter can cause interruptions in calls, lag in online transactions, and buffering in video meetings.

What if my clinic’s internet is too slow?

Whether you’re managing online bookings, running telehealth consultations, or simply processing payments, an unreliable internet connection is frustrating. Here’s what you can do if your speed test results are lower than expected:

  • Restart your modem and router.
  • Check your Wi-Fi setup by ensuring it’s placed centrally and not obstructed by walls or furniture.
  • Upgrade your internet plan for a higher-speed business-grade internet plan.
  • Talk to your ISP as your provider may need to investigate.

Why fast and reliable internet matters in a chiropractic clinic

A strong internet connection helps keep your practice running smoothly. Here’s why it’s essential:

  • Slow speeds for platforms like Cliniko or HealthKit mean slow online scheduling, which leads to frustrated patients and missed appointments.
  • A  slow connection for virtual consultations can cause video buffering, poor audio quality, and dropped calls, making it difficult to provide quality care.
  • Most practices use cloud-based Efficient Electronic Health Records Systems. A lagging connection can slow down patient record retrieval, delaying treatment.
  • Whether you use EFTPOS machines or online invoicing, a strong internet connection ensures smooth and secure transactions.
  • From responding to patient emails, to making VoIP calls, or running social media marketing, a strong connection ensures seamless communication.

If your internet slows down or cuts out, it can cause unnecessary stress for both you and your patients. That’s why regular speed tests are essential, and Swoop’s Speed Test makes it quick, simple and easy for your clinic.

Key takeaways

  • Running an internet speed test can help identify if your internet is performing as expected.
  • Key metrics include download speed, upload speed, ping, and jitter.
  • If your speed test results are lower than expected, restart your modem and router, check your Wi-Fi setup, upgrade your internet plan, and consult your ISP.