Wednesday Patient Tip of the Day

You have to communicate. One way to do it? Use routing slips or patient information forms at check-in.  Excellent communication is one of the keys to long-term patient satisfaction, said Penny Reed Limoli, owner of the Reed Limoli Group. 

Most offices will ask their patients, when they sign in, “Have there been any changes in your contact information or dental benefits”?  Most of the time the patients say no. 

Patients don’t know what you have on file for them unless you show them.  And in practices with both paper and electronic records, even those may have conflicting information.

What is the solution?  During hygiene visits, print out the routing slip or patient information form so patients can look it over and verify that not only is their contact information correct, but also their dental benefit information.  Also use this as an opportunity to let patients know about options for confirming their appointments, such as text message, email or telephone, and update their records accordingly.

This step takes only a few minutes and goes a long way in reducing delays in getting claims paid as well as getting in touch with patients in the future.

Your patients are your practice. Without them, where would you be? You have to know the best ways to attract them to your practice, get them to accept treatment and make them happy, life-long patients.

That’s where we can help. Check back regularly for tips on how to keep your patients happy, healthy and loyal.