Writing Dental Insurance Narratives from Patient Chart Notes
Writing dental insurance narratives from patient chart notes is our usual first step. So, we rely on our patient chart notes tremendously. And count on our clinical team to provide us with the information we need.
Therefore, the roadmap to a speedy insurance payment begins with a clear, concise patient chart note. In fact, the clinical team can create every patient chart note with the idea that an insurance narrative might just come from this documentation!
Consider a Dental Implant Claim
Let’s say we have an implant claim to submit. The goal is to submit the claim once. And to provide the insurance company with every piece of information they need to process that claim.
It helps to know ahead what is necessary. And then standardize patient chart notes and claim submission. Train the team to write supportive chart notes. And how to submit claims for payment upon first submission.
Writing Dental Insurance Narratives for Implant Crowns
Here is a list of what you need in your chart note(s) for implant crowns:
- tooth number
- date of extraction/surgical or simple & date of implant placement
- clinical reason for extraction
- why implant is necessary
- long-term prognosis
- date of impress & seat date for abutment/crown
Here is what the narrative could read:
Tooth #3 surgical extraction on June 1, 2022. Root fracture. Unable to restore. Surgical implant placed at time of extraction by Dr. Jones. Implant placed to restore chewing function in the UR arch and to retain integrity of the bone and facial structures. Custom abutment and implant crown impressions taken on August 12, 2022. Custom abutment and implant crown seated on August 29, 2022. Excellent long-term prognosis. Panoramic x-ray, individual x-ray, and periodontal chart included with claim.
Writing Dental Insurance Narratives Well Each Time
It’s a process. But not a difficult one. The key is to create a system that works well and train the team to repeat it. Therein lies the challenge. To get everyone on the same page. And to keep it there!
Fear not! I’ve got the solution your team needs to create and communicate your dental insurance narratives. From how to verify patient benefits to writing patient chart notes and beyond!
It’s Simpler Than You Might Think
Technology makes it all so much simpler! Access your team training tools from any device in your office. Or even from home if you like.
Create a process that walks your team step by step through the entire patient experience. From greeting your patient on the phone, to checking your patient in at the front desk. And yes, let’s not forget we want to write those fabulous chart notes and insurance narratives too!
Writing Dental Insurance Narratives Systematically
I’m a huge fan of systems. Because they take all the guesswork out of our jobs. When we know what to do or how to access what to do, we can accomplish our tasks. It’s really all about training and communication.
So, how do you train your team on claim submission and insurance narratives. Who trains your team? And what about chart note creations? Does everyone know what x-rays and documentation various procedures need? And just how to include narratives and documentation on electronic and paper claims?
Outline For Your Team Just How To Manage Your Patients' Insurance Billing and Narratives
