This course has greatly enhanced my ability to handle the process of scheduling non-referred patients. It emphasized the importance of reassuring patients by ensuring coordinated care, either by working with their existing dentist or, if they don’t have one, connecting them with a trusted general dentist (GD) in our network. This approach has built confidence and trust with our patients.

One of the most beneficial takeaways from the course has been teaching the team to gather all necessary information to create a seamless appointment experience for patients. This is especially helpful for patients without a GD, as we ensure they feel fully supported from the start.

A recent success story highlights how the course has improved our processes. Through a new internet marketing campaign targeting self-referred patients, we were able to same-day schedule a patient in pain. The patient received an extraction and immediate implant under IV sedation as a cash-pay client. Afterward, we referred them to a GD we’re building a relationship with, fostering goodwill and encouraging future referrals. This process not only boosted revenue but also strengthened our referral network, demonstrating the positive impact of streamlined scheduling and patient care coordination. -Tania I.

One problem that we have with schedule optimization making time for emergencies and non-productive appointments. The course helped us to utilize our B column more efficiently. We now have a way that better suits our entire office from checking in through checking out. Our schedule is more structured now. The A column is being used to schedule large cases in the morning and productive consults (such as implants and thirds) in the afternoon. Our B column now houses our smaller cases, post ops, emergencies, and non-productive consults. With the B column piggybacking off the cases in the A column, we are not taking valuable time away from our production while still serving our patients' needs. I look at the schedule like a jar that you need to put the large rocks in before pouring the sand otherwise the rocks won’t fit. The course was helpful in putting the above optimized schedule into action step by step. -Maeghan A

This course has significantly improved how I approach treatment plan presentations. Utilizing the B.R.I.E.F. method has helped me fine-tune my case presentations, ensuring that patients fully understand the value of their financial investment in their oral and overall health. When patients see the benefits of the proposed treatment, they become more invested in moving forward with scheduling their care.

One impactful technique I learned is using the "Explore" stage of the B.R.I.E.F. method. This allows me to actively engage with patients, addressing their objections or concerns collaboratively. By building trust and demonstrating that I genuinely care about their needs, I can present options that help them achieve their goals in a way that feels manageable and supportive.

A recent success using these methods occurred when I presented a treatment plan for a patient needing oral surgery. By combining the B.R.I.E.F. and L.M.A.A.C. methods, I worked with the patient to find a financial solution that fit their budget. They were able to make a down payment at the time of scheduling and secure a surgery date that aligned with their work schedule and budgeting timeline. The patient left feeling confident and supported, which reinforced the effectiveness of these strategies. -Brittney M.

This course helped clarify the complexities of clinical coding, especially the importance of ensuring accurate codes are sent for each encounter. It reinforced the critical role precision plays in clinical documentation and coding processes.

One specific challenge I overcame after taking this course was paying closer attention to the time required for procedures. Additionally, I addressed a preference from a doctor in my experience, ensuring that materials like Collaplug or Collatape were properly documented in extraction and bone graft encounters. This attention to detail has improved my accuracy and efficiency in coding.

One key insight I gained from this course was a deeper understanding of dental coding, which I lacked prior experience with. For instance, I learned the specific criteria for coding D7210, including the need for flap, bone removal, or sectioning to be clearly documented in the doctor’s notes. Previously, I had mistakenly thought any erupted tooth would automatically be considered a surgical extraction. These are valuable skills I’ve gained through this course and my experience, which have greatly enhanced my understanding of clinical coding. - Bre B.