Posted: Fri May 29, 2009 5:31 am
I definitely appreciate the orthodontist/patient communication aspect and understand the perception. There are always two sides to every communication.
This is where a properly trained team comes into play. Our staff have a written protocol for each procedure. They are required to be able to answer a list of questions that I look for at each appointment. One of these questions includes if there are any concerns or problems. As described above, even if I spend only a few minutes at the chair, there is always enough time to address concerns.
However, it all starts even before treatment begins. If the correct information and expectations are laid out in the beginning, there are fewer questions, smoother treatments, and happier patients :). Unfortunately, many people do not consider these interpersonal and communication factors that are outside of cost, location, and experience.
Again, this happens to my own personal style and our patients are quite pleased... unless of course any of you here are our patients! :)[/i]
This is where a properly trained team comes into play. Our staff have a written protocol for each procedure. They are required to be able to answer a list of questions that I look for at each appointment. One of these questions includes if there are any concerns or problems. As described above, even if I spend only a few minutes at the chair, there is always enough time to address concerns.
However, it all starts even before treatment begins. If the correct information and expectations are laid out in the beginning, there are fewer questions, smoother treatments, and happier patients :). Unfortunately, many people do not consider these interpersonal and communication factors that are outside of cost, location, and experience.
Again, this happens to my own personal style and our patients are quite pleased... unless of course any of you here are our patients! :)[/i]