Checking Dental Patient History for New Patients
Checking dental patient history is a crucial piece of the new patient process. We want to know when a patient had their most recent dental exam, x-rays and hygiene visit. And although we ask new patients this question when they call, I like to confirm and clarify. Both with their previous dental office. But also with their dental insurance policy.
When was the last comprehensive exam? And when was the most recent periodic exam? This helps determine cost for the patient with insurance. Because we know what is available for benefits upon verification. And we can help patients by not sending a statement our following their first visit to our office. The trust we need to establish begins here.
X-rays and Hygiene
Panoramic x-rays, bitewings, and full mouth series are also important to know. Are their recent x-rays we need to transfer? And again, this information helps with cost estimation for patients. Especially if x-rays are necessary that are not yet covered by insurance due to frequency limitations.
Is our new patient a periodontal patient? And if so, when was their last active periodontal treatment? What is their history of D4341 and D4342? What is their history for periomaintenance (D4910)? Then, if they are a healthy patient without the presence of periodontal disease, what is their prophy frequency? This helps the office with a starting point.
Checking Dental Patient History for Existing Patients
There are times when it is helpful to check history for procedure codes with existing patients. For example, if a crown requires replacement. And perhaps the crown was done by a previous dentist. We are unsure of the date of the crown. But we want to see if the insurance policy has history. First, review your initial insurance verification intake form. Double check the effective date. As a new policy would show no history.
This may also be a helpful step with dentures and even filling restorations. Time passes quickly, and it’s always a good idea to double check. Some insurance frequency limitations have increased in the last years. Where many crowns are now under a 7 or even a 10-year replacement limitation. Proceed with caution and clarity. Because we want more than anything, to maintain patient trust.
Checking Dental Patient History Help
Checking dental patient history is time consuming. Much of this work is available through technology. Which is always a huge plus! Schedule your free demo and see what Trojan Professional Services can do for your team and your patients today!
Automate Patient Benefits, History & More!