[Chris Lassiter]

Thank you, Colleen. For anyone who wants more information, Colleen posted an update on the Front Office Rocks Facebook page last night, along with some useful links. She will be helping keep us up to date on the situation as it unfolds. Good luck to everyone as you navigate this somewhat confusing scenario.

• This reply was modified 1 year, 2 months ago by  Chris Lassiter.

[Chris Lassiter]

• Colleen- Dental Insurance Coach Huff

  Moderator

  January 24, 2024 at 7:26 pm

  So the first question is which state are you in? There are some states that allow you to use both but you would bill to the insurance company the discounted rate. The patient would pay the lowest Fee schedule. IF they sign an exempt form- the work that is done can NEVER be shared with anyone else. So all work regarding that/those teeth cannot leave the office or be given out with their history. This is a very difficult thing to track and could lead to a potential HIPAA breach at some point in the future. Also that patient can retract that release at any time and you would then be billing the insurance and could end up owing that patient money back.

  I hope that makes sense or helps.

staging3.frontofficerocks.com

Discussions – Office Managers & Business Administrators – Front Office Rocks

Discussions – Office Managers & Business Administrators – Front Office Rocks

[Chris Lassiter]

So the first question is which state are you in? There are some states that allow you to use both but you would bill to the insurance company the discounted rate. The patient would pay the lowest Fee schedule. IF they sign an exempt form- the work that is done can NEVER be shared with anyone else. So all work regarding that/those teeth cannot leave the office or be given out with their history. This is a very difficult thing to track and could lead to a potential HIPAA breach at some point in the future. Also that patient can retract that release at any time and you would then be billing the insurance and could end up owing that patient money back.

I hope that makes sense or helps.

[Chris Lassiter]

Thank you for your question. I am going to pass this question along to Colleen Huff, dental insurance coach and expert, for an answer. I will post this in the PATIENT INSURANCE AND FINANCIALS community as well. As soon as I have a response, I will make sure to post it here. THANK YOU!

[Chris Lassiter]

** I also wanted to share this weekly bonus plan resource….I hope this helps!

[Chris Lassiter]

Great discussion topic! I have attached an article that will be helpful as you work towards what your particular plan will look like. Good luck!

[Chris Lassiter]

As with anything like this, we recommend double checking with your state guidelines to be sure you are in compliance. GOOD LUCK!

[Chris Lassiter]

OK so I need a bit more info- Are you saying the teeth surrounding the implant are also crowned? or it the implant on it’s own? What type of implant crown is it- implant supported or abutment supported?

[Chris Lassiter]

Thanks for the question.

When speaking to patients about dental insurance, it’s important to establish a positive and welcoming tone from the beginning of the conversation. You can start the call by acknowledging their interest in dental care and expressing your enthusiasm to assist them. Building rapport and understanding their needs should be your initial focus, allowing you to gather more information about why they are calling.

Once you have established a connection, you can then address their questions about insurance. By approaching it this way, you create an opportunity to explain how insurance works for your practice in a clear and concise manner. This approach ensures that the patient feels valued and understood, while also providing them with the necessary information about insurance coverage. Remember, the goal is to balance the importance of addressing insurance inquiries while also building a strong rapport with the patient.

[Chris Lassiter]

Thank you for your question. If a patient calls with an emergency, we always explain that we will do what we can to get them out of pain. We also let them know that we are fitting them in and a second appointment may be needed to complete any treatment. This allows you to determine if this is a “true emergency” and it also allows you to manage the patient’s expectation of their visit. I would highly recommend letting them know what to expect during the appointment – PA, limited exam – and the cost. You may ask them if they have insurance and explain that you will do your best to verify their benefits prior to their visit, but they will be responsible for the cost of the visit. Again, this lets you know if this is a true emergency. Letting patients know in advance what they can expect as far as treatment anf financial obligations is important so there are no suprises.

When the patient arrives, explain to them again what the appointment will entail. If you were not able to get the insurance information verified, collect the amount that will be due prior to taking them to the operatory. If further treatment is needed, you can present a treatment plan and discuss finances before moving forward.

I hope this helps!

Missy

[Chris Lassiter]

Thank you for bringing this to our attention! I will bring this to the team and we will have it corrected ASAP. Thanks again…!

[Chris Lassiter]

😃 Cannot wait to see everyone

[Chris Lassiter]

Of course. If there is anything else we can help with, let us know!

Missy –Practice Management Expert and Coach

[Chris Lassiter]

Thanks for bringing to our attention. My initial thought when I read this was there are MANY times we feel like swearing though don’t we. 🤣.

• This reply was modified 1 year, 7 months ago by  Chris Lassiter.

[Chris Lassiter]

Me too…You are going to LOVE IT!!!