Hello DH3,
I wanted to reach out regarding a few common questions that have been coming.
1. Patient Informs they want to be seen for Dental Treatment Without Hygiene
There seems to be some confusion around what to do when a patient says they would like dental care but, not dental hygiene at the COD. It's important that students remind patients, when this comes up, that we provide comprehensive care-meaning patients must commit to both dental and dental hygiene services.
If a patient declines dental hygiene, students should clarify whether the patient only wants to be removed from the hygiene list or if they wish to withdraw from the COD completely (which would mean leaving both the dental and dental hygiene programs). Students need to make this clear over the phone-that one cannot continue without the other. Sometimes this explanation changes the patient's mind; if not, and they still refuse hygiene, students should explain that the case will be reviewed by the Associate Dean and may result in dismissal.
If students do not document this conversation clearly, they will be asked to call the patient back, update the notes, and clarify before any decision is made.
2. Disposition Forms
When submitting a disposition form, students do not need to follow up with an additional email or axiUm message-the reasoning provided on the form is sufficient and comes directly to me. If chart notes are up to date and the rationale is documented on the form, a separate message isn't required.
Additionally, all disposition forms must be swiped before submission; otherwise, they will be returned.
3. CDCP Patient Coverage
While students have been doing very well in reaching out about patient insurance, I've noticed some are not fully reviewing CDCP patients' charts before calling. A quick chart review should include:
* Checking the date of the last appointment
* Noting how many units of scale were used
When speaking with patients on the phone, students should also:
* Confirm whether the patient has had hygiene appointments elsewhere, as this may affect coverage ( we will not know if they have been elsewhere )
* Verify that the patient has renewed their coverage (since this can change yearly)
* Remind patients that any changes in coverage should be outlined in the approval letter they received
If a patient has recently received CDCP, students are free to book them, but should remind the patient to bring their CDCP card to the front desk so the information can be added to their chart at check-in.
I am also happy to assist any students who would like to come and see me directly or reach out for further clarification.
I am also happy to assist any students who would like to meet with me directly or reach out for further clarification.
Thank you,
Sabrina