I wanted to share an eye-opening incident that recently occurred, highlighting the significance of not making assumptions about patients' financial situations when providing healthcare services.
During a conversation with a new dentist who had just opened a practice, I learned about a surprising observation he made. The dentist encountered a new patient who required a crown procedure. To my astonishment, the dentist performed the entire procedure free of charge. Intrigued by his decision, I asked the dentist why he provided the service for free, to which he responded, "Because that patient didn't have any money."
Naturally, I was taken aback by his assertion and couldn't help but inquire further. I asked how he was so certain about the patient's financial circumstances. The dentist simply replied, "Because I just know." It was at that moment I realized the critical lesson we must all remember: never judge a book by its cover.
The patient in question might have possessed the means to afford the procedure, but other factors could have influenced their decision. For instance, they may not have felt a sense of trust in the dentist, which can greatly impact a patient's willingness to proceed with any recommended treatment. Alternatively, the patient may not have been asked the right questions or provided with sufficient information to understand the importance and urgency of the procedure. Thus, it is crucial to approach each patient with an open mind and ensure effective communication regarding their treatment options.
Assumptions about a patient's financial capabilities can lead to misjudgments and missed opportunities to provide necessary care. Not to mention what this poor billing practice does to the dentist’s bottom line having a new business. Instead, we should strive to foster an environment of trust, actively listen to patients' concerns, and provide clear explanations regarding their treatment needs.
Furthermore, implementing measures such as offering flexible payment options and exploring insurance coverage can help alleviate financial burdens for those who genuinely require assistance.
Thank you for taking the time to read this blog post. I believe it is essential to share this experience as a reminder of the importance of avoiding assumptions about patients' affordability.
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To Your Success,
Evelyn
The Efficiency Institute
Evelyn T.Samuel, D.M.D.