5 Tips to Build Strong Patient Bases and Full Dental Schedules
As an owner dentist or dental office manager, you know that a solid patient base is key to the success of your office or clinic. But how do you ensure that your patients keep coming back and that your schedule stays full? The answer lies in having a robust and consistent recall system in place.
Effective recall systems use a series of protocols and procedures that ensure that patients return to your practice on a regular basis for routine dental exams and dental cleanings. Here are five steps to building an effective dental patient recall system:
1. Establish Clear Protocols
To start, establish clear protocols for your dental recall system. Define how often patients should be scheduled for dental exams and cleanings and ensure that your team understands and follows these protocols. Often, the most successful dental recall protocols include a series of calls and/or texts until the patients confirm. (See number 4.)
2. Utilize Technology
Leverage dental office technology to help streamline your recall system. Consider using patient management software to automate appointment reminders and follow-up communications. There are also several third parties who can automate these services for you using their software or teams.
3. Train Your Team and Hold Each Other Accountable
Train your dental team on how to effectively communicate with patients about the importance of regular dental exams and cleanings. Ensure that they are knowledgeable about the benefits of preventative care and can answer patient questions. The office flow should be such that no patient walks out the door without their next dental appointment scheduled.
4. Segment Your Patient Base
Segment your patient base based on their recall needs. For example, patients who are due for a recall appointment in the next 30 days should receive a different type of communication than those who are due in 6 months. Patients not receiving regular reminders and communication from your practice may feel neglected or forgotten, leading them to seek dental care elsewhere.
5. Measure Success
Measure the success of your recall system by tracking metrics such as appointment completion rates, patient retention, and revenue generated from recall appointments. Use this data to refine your dental recall system, hold your dental team accountable, and continuously improve your recall protocol’s effectiveness.
By implementing these five strategies, you can build a strong patient base and keep your dental providers' schedules full. A robust recall system is a win-win for both your patients and your dental practice - patients receive the preventative care they need, while your practice benefits from improved patient retention and steady revenue.
To learn more about solutions that can help your dental office improve performance, contact us.
About the Author: Dr. Jared Sinclair is the Founder of PerformanceDDS™, where he provides elite dental office performance coaching for next-level dental teams.
