1 CE Credit

You will receive 1 unit of continuing education credit upon successful completion of this course.

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ADA Member: $28.00
Nonmember: $42.00
Dental Team Member: $15.00

Author:

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ADA, Council on Dental Practice and Saleable Materials

Learning Objectives:

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Upon completion of this course, participants should be able to do the following:

1. Manage the appointment book
2. Use a computerized appointment book
3. Deal with cancellations and no-shows
4. Establish a recare system
5. Preschedule appointments
6. Explain delays and emergencies
7. Coordinate laboratory cases

Abstract:

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Proper scheduling of appointments is key to an efficient and productive dental practice. A well-managed appointment book will allow staff to see patients promptly, handle emergencies, avoid nonproductive time and maintain good patient relations. Good scheduling will also allow staff to prepare mentally for each day and to pace themselves throughout the day. 
 
The objective of a daily appointment schedule is to maintain a productive flow of patients through the office. Appointment scheduling is based on: the size of the patient pool, the type of dentistry performed, the style and philosophy of the dentist, staffing considerations, and office facilities and equipment. The administrative assistant usually is responsible for managing appointments. Appointments are made with patients as they leave the office or by phone. Sometimes appointments are made indirectly, by arranging tentative schedules and confirming them at a later date. The appointment book itself is a written record or diary of the practice. It combines, on a daily basis, immediate patient demands, planned treatment or consultation, new patients and routine care.
 
The course covers scheduling, special tips, proper use of the appointment book, computerized appointment control, the recare system, and coordinating laboratory cases. At the end of the course, there is a glossary of dental terms.

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Outline:

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References:

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