advising patients

what to say to the patient being referred
  • Explain to the patient they have a complex or difficult problem/s needing advanced specialist management and how a prosthodontist can help them.
  • Explain in general what you think the treatment might involve so the patient begins to understand the issues and some of the options
  • Give them a range of costs if you can (we can help you with estimating costs if you ring our office before you speak to the patient). If needed we can often spread the cost of extensive treatment over time.
  • Explain they may need to see other specialists as part of the diagnostic or treatment processes. If you or your patient have any preferred specialists, please let us know in your referral. Unless you request we take over management, we do not make ongoing referrals without your permission.
  • Let the patient know that even though you may not be involved in their care again for some time, you will be following the treatment throughout via our efforts to keep you in the picture and you will continue to see them as part of their ongoing review and maintenance once treatment is complete. If you do not feel it is appropriate for the patient to return to you, please let us know.
make the referral while they are in your office

Making an appointment on the patient's behalf while they are still in your office signifies to them how important this referral is to you and them. We do the same thing when returning patients to your care. Both prosthodontists, Janis or Yvonne conduct new patient consultations and reserve appointment time each week specifically for new patients so we can provide prompt follow-up to your referral. A supply of our business cards can be provided to you by calling our office and speaking to Liz or Janet.

give the patient information about our practice

Direct them to this website or contact us for a "Patient information – referral to a prosthodontist" sheet. Prior to the appointment, one of our team will forward further information to the patient (welcome brochure, letter containing appointment time confirmation, how to get there, parking and pre-clinical history and health questionnaire).

back to top