APPOINTMENT SCHEDULING: EMERGENCIES

(sappteme.doc)

 

Desired Outcome: Emergency patients successfully worked into the schedule with minimal disruption of other appointments scheduled that day. Also, accurate and empathetic assessment of the patient�s needs.

 

Measurement:  Satisfaction of the emergency patient with minimal delay for other patients.

 

1.       Determine the necessity and reason for the appointment and pull the chart, if an established patient. 

 

2.       Complete the emergency slip, asking the questions listed on the form and attach it to the patient�s chart. Refer to the Forms Section for an Emergency Telephone Slip.

 

4.       The patient must be seen the same day, if any of the following symptoms apply:

A.     Confirmed trauma. (Refer to the Clinical Evaluation for Trauma form in the Forms Section.)

B.     Pain keeps the patient awake at night.

C.     Current fever or swelling.

D.     Sudden onset of severe pain.

      

5.       The patient can be seen within the next couple of days, if any of the following circumstances and symptoms apply:

A.     The patient is satisfied with the appointment date and time scheduled.

B.     The patient has a history of chronic toothaches that do not keep them awake at night or require medication.

C.     Broken or sensitive tooth causing mild discomfort and the patient is satisfied with the appointment date and time scheduled.

      

6.       Once an acceptable and appropriate appointment date and time has been selected, enter the following information in the appointment book:

A.     Patient�s last and first name (i.e., Smith, Mary).

B.     Work and home phone numbers.

 

7.       Before ending the call, confirm the following information with the patient:

A.     Appointment time.

B.     Office address (if new patient).

C.     Easy-to-follow directions to the office (if new patient).

 

8.       Verbally inform the clinical staff of the change in schedule and write the patient�s name on the back office schedule.

      

  Samples from Standard Operating Procedures for All Dentists
(Contains over 470 pages + software)

Demo Introduction Dept. Task List Staff Meetings
Introduction Table of Contents Treatment
Cover Sample OSHA Chart Preparation
Article Performance Agreement Basic Tray Set Up
Agenda Appointment Scheduling X Rays
Emergency Telephone Slip Extractions Back to Dental SOP