CDA
at
W
ork
TrustandValueWorkingGroup
is aunique collaboration of provincial andnational dental leaders that focuses ondeveloping
communications strategies to promote the benefits of good oral health for allCanadians.
of the least important factors inmaintainingagoodpatient relationship. However,more
thanhalf of Canadians thinkof thecost firstwhen receiving recommendations from
their dentist. It’shelpful to includeageneral cost rangeaspart of your discussion. The
detailsof fees, financingand insurancecanbeprovided later by staff.
•
Workasa team.
Thedental teamhasmanyplayers—dentist, dental hygienist, dental
assistant, and front office staff—all focussingon thepatient. By including thepatient’s
oral healthgoals, knowledgeandunderstanding intoyour treatment recommendations,
youempower bothyour staffandyour patient toworkwithyou tomake thebest
decisions.
•
Offerone lastopportunity toaskquestions.
Real communication is a two-way street,
not a lecture. It’sdifficult for apatient toproperlycommunicatewithyouwhile theyare
lyingdown. Build ina fewmoments at theendof theappointment toask your patient
if theyhaveanyquestions. Have theconversationwhenbothyouand thepatient are
able togive it full attention:when thepatient is sittingupright in thechair andyour
maskdown. Bycreatinga respectful environment, your commitment togoodpatient
communicationwill shine through.
a
7.
8.
...empower both your staffand your patient toworkwith you
tomake the best decisions.
