Dental Practice Patient Flow Protocol

1. Pre-Appointment

Patient Registration

• Send digital forms 48 hours before appointment
• Verify insurance eligibility
• Confirm appointment via preferred method (text/email/call)

Room Preparation

• Sterilize all instruments
• Disinfect treatment area
• Check equipment functionality
• Review patient charts

2. Patient Arrival

Check-in Process

1. Greet patient within 30 seconds of arrival
2. Collect/verify completed forms
3. Update medical history
4. Scan insurance card if needed
5. Collect copayment

Initial Assessment

• Vital signs (if required)
• Chief complaint review
• Pain assessment (1-10 scale)

3. Clinical Flow

Dental Assistant Tasks

1. Escort patient to operatory
2. Review medical alerts
3. Take necessary radiographs
4. Prepare required materials

Dentist Examination

1. Review patient history/radiographs
2. Perform examination
3. Discuss findings with patient
4. Present treatment plan

4. Treatment Phase

Procedure Preparation

• Confirm consent forms
• Review procedure steps
• Verify anesthesia requirements

Treatment Delivery

1. Perform procedure
2. Document all steps
3. Take clinical photos if needed

5. Check-out Process

Post-Treatment

1. Provide post-care instructions
2. Schedule follow-up appointment
3. Review treatment documentation

Financial Processing

• Process payment
• Submit insurance claims
• Provide treatment receipts

6. Follow-up

Quality Assurance

1. Send satisfaction survey
2. Schedule recall appointment
3. Document any follow-up needs