Virtual Case Conversation Video
Teledentistry Case Conversation
In light of COVID-19 and the liability it presents to patients, dentists, and team members, you may want to consider Teledentistry to conduct the Case Conversation. For patients with complex care where you need additional time and treatment planning resources, the Case Conversation typically is scheduled within a week of patients’ initial examination. Using Teledentistry;
· You can create uninterrupted time with patients where you have each other’s full attention
· You can easily display digital diagnostics and supplemental visual aids to illustrate your treatment recommendations
· You have the option of recording the Case Conversation allowing patients to replay the conversation to their spouses and other influencers
· Your patient advocate can join in to discuss scheduling, financial arrangements, and other administrative issues
· You free up your schedule to allow more time for patients who require in-person appointments
· Distinguishes your practice by offering a service not found in most competing practices
· Significantly improves the convenience and access issues for patients
The role-play example of Christine’s Case Conversation illustrates the ease and convenience of Teledentistry. Here are some tips to help make your Case Conversations go well.
#1. Be sure to use a HIPPA compliant teleconferencing service provider. Here’s a link to several.
#2. Be sure to have good lighting and audio. If you’re not experienced with creating video conferences, get help. There are many sources for video conferencing support on the internet. A resource I like is LinkedIn Learning. Visit https://www.linkedin.com/learning/topics/video-conferencing
#3. I’ve already provided you with an excellent rehearsal tool, the Case Conversation Planner. It would be useful to have this planner available during your Case Conversation. This way, your conversation will have structure and be easy for patients to understand.
#4. After you’ve completed the Case Conversation, your patient advocate can discuss scheduling, financial arrangements, and other administrative issues. Following this, you can return to the video conferencing event and present informed consent.
#5. Immediately following Case Conversation is an excellent time to ask for referrals. Don’t be bashful about this.
Have fun with this project. Patients will appreciate the convenience and the personal connection it creates. Teledentistry is another way of manifesting excellent Standard of Caring®.
My best always,
Dr. Paul Homoly
P.S. The photos used in this video come from two sources. The full-face photo of “Elaine” is from Shutterstock photos – https://www.shutterstock.com/home . The photo of the posterior restorative comes from my friend and colleague Dr. Todd Ehrlich – https://digitalenamel.com/todd-ehrlich-dds/