From Diagnosis to Decision: Navigating the Treatment Presentation Process
Treatment plans are a great tool to communicate what the doctor believes should be done to the patient.
Presenting a treatment plan can be very challenging at first. We always want the patient to say yes to every treatment plan presented, and sometimes, they say yes right away and hesitate to accept it.
There could be several reasons why they are hesitant to say yes:
- It could be because they are afraid or nervous about proceeding with the treatment.
- It also could be that they are scared to feel pain or discomfort.
- The cost of the treatment plan may be too much for them.
- They may also assume that dental insurance will pay for everything, meaning that they don’t have any patient portions, and hearing an out-of-pocket cost could be a deterrent.
Coming up with a good system of presenting treatment can allow patients to understand what to expect and make the experience better.
Relaying the Treatment Plan
We must help the patient understand that treatment is essential for the health of their teeth and the rest of their body. We must show the value of having treatment done, and we as a team need not have any preconceived thoughts about the patient. We can’t assume that patients will say no.
Presenting a treatment plan involves every member of the dental team! The dental assistant actively explains the treatment, from taking diagnostic x-rays, intra-oral photos, and even an iTero scan before they call the dentist to start the appointment. Gathering these data shows the patient that we care enough to acquire pertinent information concerning the condition of their mouth.
The dentist will do an examination, which is when they prescribe treatment. They present it along with x-rays, intra-oral photos, and the iTero scan that treatment is needed. With good diagnostics, they can discover any required treatment. This process instills the importance of using objective data and can assure the patient of any necessary treatment.
The Hygienist’s Role
The hygienist also plays a big part in this process. If the patient is at their annual re-care appointment, the hygienist will complete an examination, take the necessary x-rays, and take the iTero scan. The hygienist can begin the treatment plan conversation with the patient.
When the dentist is ready for the examination after the hygienist finishes the prophylaxis, the hygienist can prepare the dentist by letting them know about the findings and any treatment that has been diagnosed before and is not yet scheduled. The patient must hear this communication. This way, the patient understands the importance of the treatment and that it is beneficial for saving their teeth.
Even after the dentist finishes the exam, the hygienist can have the opportunity to ask the patient if they have any more questions; the hygienist can help. This is a perfect time for the team to alleviate any worries.
Role of the Treatment Coordinator
The treatment coordinator explains to the patient why this treatment is necessary. This reinforces to them that it is essential for the longevity of their teeth.
This should be done privately, and the treatment coordinator should speak to the patient. This way, there are no distractions, and the patient feels comfortable and can listen clearly to what is being said. If the patient has more questions or concerns, the treatment coordinator can help them understand why it is necessary.
The Financial Coordinator
The financial coordinator discusses with the patient what they are financially responsible for. If they can’t or, for some reason, feel overwhelmed and find that they are financially incapable, this is where you offer financing like Care Credit, Sunbit, and Lending Club. If you have a membership plan you offer patients, you can mention it.
If the patient has anymore concerns, the treatment coordinator can help the patient feel at ease. Our goal is for them to schedule because it benefits the patient.
Effective treatment planning and communication are essential for providing quality care to patients in the dental industry. Presenting treatment plans can be challenging, as patients may have concerns about pain, cost, or the necessity of the procedures.
However, patients can better understand their options and feel empowered to make informed decisions by emphasizing the importance of treatment for oral and overall health and involving every dental team member in the process.
Dental assistants, hygienists, treatment coordinators, and financial coordinators are crucial in educating patients, addressing their concerns, and facilitating scheduling. Through collaboration and transparent communication, the dental team can ensure a positive treatment planning experience for patients and ultimately improve their oral health outcomes.
About the Author
Eileen Gonzalez, DAADOM
Eileen Gonzales, DAADOM, currently serves as the Office Manager at Ever Care Dental in New York City, bringing a wealth of experience inherited from her upbringing in her mother’s dental office. Graduating with distinction from St. Peter’s University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management and Economics, she has pursued ongoing professional development as an active member of the American Association of Dental Office Management (AADOM) and the American Association of Clear Aligners (AACA).
Eileen’s dedication to excellence is evident in her attainment of AADOM’s Fellowship (FAADOM), Mastership (MAADOM), and Diplomate (DAADOM) distinctions, alongside her nomination for Practice Administrator of the Year (PAOY).
Beyond her professional achievements, she enjoys traveling, spending time with loved ones, and passionately supporting the New York Yankees while tuning into sports radio. In all pursuits, Eileen embodies a commitment to professionalism, expertise, and personal fulfillment.
