Do your patients know the alternatives for their oral care?

Abstract

The recession has placed considerable financial stress on most Americans. The implications for oral preventive care and needed treatment have been significant and obvious. It is my observation as I have spoken with many practitioners in the country that many still are feeling the effects of the recession. Most dentists have seen a significant reduction in clinical activity in their practices and much more reluctance on the part of patients to accept elective dentistry. However, in my opinion, when the various alternatives for treatment are explained to patients, they make quite logical choices for their treatment, in spite of their caution in spending money at this time. In this column, I explain my own beliefs and clinical behavior relative to providing adequate education for patients, which allows them to make informed choices about both elective and mandatory procedures. CONDUCTING PATIENT EDUCATION The patient education procedure easily can be delegated to staff members who are familiar with the practice’s philosophy, the procedures that are performed routinely in the practice and the availability of specialty care in the community. Although this is a delegable task, the practitioner must remember that, ultimately, the treating dentist remains legally responsible to ensure the patient is given sufficient information to make an educated decision and to obtain the patient’s informed consent. The information must be understandable, and the patient must have the opportunity to consult with others as desired and to have his or her questions answered by the treating dentist. The most logical people to whom patient education should be delegated are dental hygienists. Usually, they have a significant amount of time to talk to patients during the initial diagnostic appointment and subsequent preventive appointments. In-depth education of patients about their oral condition and treatment needs can be accomplished effectively during these times. Dental assistants and front-desk personnel also are capable of sharing in patient education tasks. Educating patients regarding treatment choices is required under state laws as part of obtaining informed consent. In addition, the ethical principle of patient autonomy found in the American Dental Association (ADA) Principles of Ethics and Code of Professional Conduct requires that treatment options be communicated to the patient so that he or she can provide informed consent. The fact that it can work as a marketing tool is an additional benefit. Regardless of who provides the education, the following concepts usually provide adequate information, allowing patients to comfortably take part in treatment planning decisions and to feel confident that they are accepting the correct care. Do your patients know the alternatives for their oral care?