Managing Patients: The Patient Experience Guidelines for Pratctice Success. American Dental Association

      Consider whether you’re comfortable with patients making online appointments; if so, ask your webmaster if that feature can be integrated into your website.

       Many practices also offer a newsletter, available by an “opt-in” email and via the practice website. This is a great way to keep patients engaged with you and your practice.

      Resources:

      • Standard Telephone Protocols, p.5

      • Sample Phone Scripts, p.6

      • Sample New Patient Intake Form, p.9

STANDARD TELEPHONE PROTOCOLS

       Smile each time you answer the phone. That simple act actually puts a pleasant, friendly and helpful tone in your voice. Always think of the person on the phone at the time as the most important person you will speak to that day.

       Always remember that your telephone style projects an image of the practice and can influence whether or not a prospective patient decides to become part of your practice.

      Make sure every caller feels valued and welcomed, whether they are a longtime patient, a prospective patient looking for a new dentist, or even a vendor or sales rep. Remember, new patient referrals can come from anywhere.

       Speak slowly, enunciate clearly.

       Always be calm, professional, respectful and project genuine concern. Concentrate on what the caller says, listen attentively without interrupting, confirm the situation (especially if it’s an emergency), evaluate the urgency, and pass the information on with complete accuracy.

       Practice, or adapt, scripts so they sound natural and not forced or like you’re reading from a page.

       Remember that no one likes to be put on hold, so do that only when absolutely necessary.

       If it’s an emergency, try to make an appointment for the same day, regardless of whether the caller is a patient of record. A helpful, empathetic approach and a successful outcome can convert an emergency appointment into a long-term patient. If it’s not possible to schedule the patient for the same day, explain the situation and refer the caller to a trusted colleague who is able to see the patient that day, or (if that is not available), suggest where the patient might be seen sooner.

SAMPLE PHONE SCRIPTS

       USE THIS LANGUAGE FOR ALL CALLS:

      Front Desk Staff: “Good [morning/afternoon]. Thank you for calling [practice name]. This is [greeter’s name]. How may I [we] help you?”

      The caller’s response will determine what you say next.

       USE THIS LANGUAGE FOR NEW, PROSPECTIVE PATIENTS:

      Front Desk Staff: “We appreciate your interest in our practice. How can we help you?”

       USE THIS LANGUAGE IF THE PATIENT NEEDS IMMEDIATE OR EMERGENCY TREATMENT:

      Front Desk Staff: “I’m sorry that you’re in pain. Let me see how soon Dr. [insert name] can see you. We’ll do our best to get you in as soon as possible.”

       USE THIS LANGUAGE IF THE PATIENT IS A “TELEPHONE SHOPPER”:

      Front Desk Staff: “Are you able to schedule a visit to our office? We’d like to show you the facilities and introduce you to the staff and the doctor(s). We can answer any questions you might have at that time. If you’d like, we can even schedule an initial appointment at the same time so the doctor can assess your needs and determine the best treatment for you.”

       USE THIS LANGUAGE IF THE CALLER ASKS ABOUT THE DENTIST’S PARTICIPATION IN A SPECIFIC DENTAL BENEFITS PLAN:

      Front Desk Staff: “Good morning, thank you for calling [practice name], Jane speaking. How may I help you today?”

      Patient: “Do you accept my [name of dental benefits plan]?”

      Front Desk Staff: “I would be happy to assist you. May I ask your name?”

      Patient: “Ms. Doe.”

       IF YOU

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