#and there's a dental urgent care but they don't say what insurance they take and my insurance phone tree is not telling me what is fucking

[runawaymarbles]

separating dental insurance from normal medical coverage and making it fucking impossible to navigate is evil, actually

[butts-bouncing-on-the-beltway]

Your talk about your eyes and not being covered kind of made me want to talk about something

I have Colorado medicaid. You know what we have covered? Dental (cause they realized it was cheaper to give dental than pay for complications) and eye exams (no glasses, but better than nothing)

People act like, and I wish I was joking, the idea with socialized medicine is to hold doctors at gunpoint (I figured we could just... pay them, but you do you rightwingers)

It's actually just really good insurance. I get into places as fast or faster than when I had actual insurance in the past (despite all the places that don't take medicaid, which might change if everyone had it). I've gotten way more care since I don't have copays. I pretty much never have had anything denied... it's like normal shitty insurance, but a bit better

Also here's a great bonus story, my mom's on disability. Had medicaid before she was able to get on disability even. Well she gets old enough to qualify for medicare. She's forced to pay like $125 a month for the privilege of worse insurance

By that I mean medicaid covered her thyroid medication. She gets medicare, they don't want to cover that med despite it being an old one and one she doesn't have a bad reaction to. Well medicaid won't cover it now cause she has other insurance. She literally pays a fee to be forced to pay out of pocket for a med that was previously covered (and as far as I know basically can't drop it now that she has it without messing things up with medicaid)

So... yeah. Just... just every time I mention like going to the dentist and having people say lucky, and me realizing oh shit I am lucky, and my luck being that I was broke enough to qualify... what the fuck?

Really really wish everyone just had at least as good as Colorado medicaid, even fucking bezos so we're not worrying about enforcement nonsense

Really wish we had universal healthcare cause... basically I just have kickass insurance, and it sucks hearing that you, someone working, are less well covered than I am

(And private insurance could still exist, it just might be forced to... you know... actually provide a benefit at a reasonable price to give people a reason to not just go with their medicaid)

Honestly the way we handle health care in this country is a goddamn nightmare, and we literally already know and have known for years that it kills people.

I will say that often even good medicaids are uhhhhhhhh not so good on the provider side. They "cover" a lot of claims that don't actually get paid, ya know? I work in healthcare, and have generally been a big fan of the medicaid in my catchment area because it actually seems to be pretty comperable to how you describe CO's. That said, as a provider, I would say a solid half of any "non-urgent" claims get denied, and at least one of the medicaid providers has denied every single claim the practice has submitted to them even though they keep telling us we're in network with them and following their instructions.

So. I do sort of get why it can seem (depending on which side of the insurance you're on) like holding providers at gunpoint. On the patient end you've got people receiving reasonably quality/comprehensive care with no fee at the point of service, which is phenomenal! On the provider side though, it often looks like losing literally thousands of dollars a month on denied claims for necessary services with little to no recourse.

We do it anyway of course, because the practice I work for is strongly oriented towards "serve the clients best needs even if it causes operating at a loss" but admittedly not every practice can survive under a premise like that for long. I think one of my biggest frustrations is that they always reject crisis care billable hours, even though they claim to cover them, and even when I am literally talking someone through a total breakdown in functionality. It's very frustrating to know that one of the most basic elements of mental health care (emergency support in crisis) will never be paid for (keep in mind that often when insurancr denies a claim, a practice won't pay a provider for that time) which neither the practice nor I can really afford.

Basically, we desperately need universal quality healthcare coverage, as well as (frankly) incentives for providers to actually register with the providers of this insurance rather than providing OOP care only. And that universal coverage needs to understand that "protecting patients from overcharging" is not mutually exclusive from "paying claims for emergency/out of norm care".

[mconsent]

Get Patients to Say “Yes” to Your Treatment Plan: 15 Tips for Dentists | mConsent

As dental professionals, you want patients to accept your recommended treatment plans in order to provide the best possible oral health care. However, patients may decline or hesitate for many reasons like cost, anxiety, low perceived value, or lack of understanding. This can be frustrating when we know the treatments are necessary. 

The good news is there are strategies you can use to get more "yes" and fewer "no thanks" when presenting dental treatment plans. Here are 15 tips to boost treatment plan acceptance in your practice:

1. Build Trust

Taking time at the beginning of treatment to listen and address patients' questions and concerns goes a long way towards building confidence and trust in your recommendations. Avoid seeming rushed or pushy. Let patients know you care about more than just their teeth. When patients trust you, they are more likely to accept your treatment proposals.

2. Educate don't Intimidate

Knowledge is power. Rather than overwhelming patients with complex dental terminology they may not understand, explain proposed treatments and procedures in simple, everyday language. Use analogies they can relate to and focus on the "why" not just the "what."

An educated patient is an empowered patient. Simplifying explanations also helps reduce anxiety and fear of the unknown.

3. Show AND Tell

We've all heard the saying "a picture is worth a thousand words." Use intraoral cameras, dental models, charts, photos, and other visual aids to clearly demonstrate needed treatments.

Seeing cavities, gum disease, worn enamel, etc. makes it more real and understandable for patients.

They'll better grasp why certain procedures are recommended.

4. Discuss Pros and Cons

Don't present treatment plans one-sidedly, only highlighting the positives. Also acknowledge potential downsides like cost, time required, or possible discomfort. This shows objectivity and fairness on your part.

Patients will have more confidence in your recommendations knowing you've weighed both benefits and disadvantages.

5. Offer Options

Not all treatments have just one obvious solution. Where possible, provide alternative treatment plans and options. Giving patients choices and the ability to select the plan that best fits their needs and preferences increases their sense of autonomy and control. This facilitates agreement.

6. Break it Down

For patients with extensive treatment needs, the overall plan can seem daunting. Where appropriate, separate the full plan into phases, stages, or steps. Frame the initial phase as a reasonable start. Once completed, move onto the next phase. This makes expansive care seem more manageable and digestible.

7. Prioritize

 When presenting a comprehensive treatment plan, highlight which items are most important and urgent to address first. This provides focus for the patient. They'll be more inclined to agree to top priority treatments. Non-urgent procedures can come later.

8. Provide Cost Estimates

One of the biggest barriers to treatment acceptance is financial concern. Discuss costs upfront and have information on payment plans or financing options available. Patients want to know what they are agreeing to pay.

9. Be flexible

Within reason, try to accommodate patients' scheduling requests, constraints, and preferences. Make the logistics and timing of proposed care as hassle-free as possible. The more you can individualize around each patient's needs, the more likely they are to agree.

10. Follow up

After presenting a treatment plan, don't assume no response means agreement. Follow up to confirm patients are on board. Ask if they have any other questions or concerns. Proactive confirmation will catch issues.

11. Get Pre-Authorizations

 For patients with dental insurance coverage, verify what is covered and pre-authorize recommended procedures whenever possible. This prevents surprises where patients get a plan but insurance doesn't cover portions. 

12. Reflect on Declines

If a patient declines part or all of a treatment plan, take time to analyze why and learn for future discussions. Look for patterns among declined plans to improve your presentation approach.

13. Enlist Help

It's not always just the dentist talking. Have trained dental staff also help explain and reinforce the treatment plan details. Hearing congruent recommendations from multiple team members can help persuade patients.

14. Be Positive

When presenting a treatment plan, put emphasis on the benefits of accepting rather than the risks or consequences of declining. Give motivating reasons to say yes. Paint an optimistic picture of how their oral health will improve.

15. Make it about Health

Where applicable, tie dental treatment plans to overall health benefits - both oral and systemic. Motivate patients by talking about how procedures will not just address dental issues but also improve their broader health and wellbeing.

Conclusion

Taking a collaborative educational approach with your patients and incorporating these tips can help increase treatment plan acceptance. The more you can understand and address each patient's specific situation, motivations, and apprehensions, the better you can develop treatment plans they are willing and ready to say "yes" to.

Embracing automated Treatment plan reminders to improve your acceptance rate, like with mConsent, also goes a long way.

[tuxedodental]

Your Guide To Finding A Trusted Winnipeg Dentist: Tips And Recommendations

When it comes to your oral health, finding a trusted Winnipeg dentist is paramount. Whether you're due for a routine check-up or seeking a cosmetic dentist to enhance your smile, the choice of dental clinic can significantly impact your overall well-being. To help you make an informed decision, we've compiled a comprehensive guide with essential tips and recommendations.

Start with research.

Begin your search for a Winnipeg dentist by conducting thorough research. Utilize search engines and online directories to find a list of dental clinics in your area. Consider the clinic's proximity to your home or workplace for convenience. Visiting the clinic's official website, like tuxedodental.ca, can provide valuable information about the services they offer and their approach to patient care.

Check for credentials.

Once you've identified potential dental clinics, verify the credentials of the dentists. Look for their qualifications, certifications, and affiliations with professional organizations such as the Canadian Dental Association. These affiliations signify a commitment to adhering to high standards of dental care.

Read reviews and testimonials.

Reading online reviews and patient testimonials can offer insights into the patient experience at the dental clinic. Pay attention to what patients have to say about the dentist's expertise, staff friendliness, and the overall ambiance of the clinic. This firsthand information can help you gauge the quality of care you can expect.

Services Offered

If you're looking for specific dental services, like cosmetic dentistry, ensure the clinic provides those treatments. Not all Winnipeg dentists offer the same range of services, so it's important to choose one that aligns with your needs.

Schedule a consultation.

Before committing to a dentist, schedule a consultation. This allows you to meet the dentist in person, discuss your concerns, and gauge their communication skills. A trustworthy dentist will take the time to listen to your questions and provide clear, understandable answers.

Hygiene and Sterilization

Maintaining high levels of hygiene and sterilization is non-negotiable in dental clinics. Ask about the clinic's sterilization procedures to ensure your safety.

Emergency Care

Emergencies can happen at any time. Inquire about the dental clinic's emergency care services and their availability outside regular office hours. Knowing that you have a trusted dentist to turn to in urgent situations can provide peace of mind.

Insurance and payment options

Understanding the clinic's payment options and whether they accept your dental insurance is crucial. A reputable dental clinic will be transparent about costs and work with you to maximize your insurance benefits.

Comfort and atmosphere

Your comfort during dental visits is essential. Visit the clinic to assess the atmosphere and ambiance. A warm and welcoming environment can make your dental experience more pleasant.

Ask for recommendations.

Don't hesitate to seek recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues who have had positive experiences with Winnipeg dentists. Personal recommendations can be invaluable in your search for a trusted dentist.

In conclusion, choosing a Winnipeg dentist is a decision that directly impacts your oral health. By following these tips and recommendations, you can find a reputable dental clinic like tuxedodental.ca that will provide exceptional care and help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. Remember that taking the time to find the right dentist is an investment in your long-term oral health and overall well-being.

[mconsent]

Get Patients to Say ���Yes” to Your Treatment Plan | mConsent

As dental professionals, you want patients to accept your recommended treatment plans in order to provide the best possible oral health care. However, patients may decline or hesitate for many reasons like cost, anxiety, low perceived value, or lack of understanding. This can be frustrating when we know the treatments are necessary. 

The good news is there are strategies you can use to get more "yes" and fewer "no thanks" when presenting dental treatment plans. Here are 15 tips to boost treatment plan acceptance in your practice:

1. Build Trust

Taking time at the beginning of treatment to listen and address patients' questions and concerns goes a long way towards building confidence and trust in your recommendations. Avoid seeming rushed or pushy. Let patients know you care about more than just their teeth. When patients trust you, they are more likely to accept your treatment proposals.

2. Educate don't Intimidate

Knowledge is power. Rather than overwhelming patients with complex dental terminology they may not understand, explain proposed treatments and procedures in simple, everyday language. Use analogies they can relate to and focus on the "why" not just the "what."

An educated patient is an empowered patient. Simplifying explanations also helps reduce anxiety and fear of the unknown.

3. Show AND Tell

We've all heard the saying "a picture is worth a thousand words." Use intraoral cameras, dental models, charts, photos, and other visual aids to clearly demonstrate needed treatments.

Seeing cavities, gum disease, worn enamel, etc. makes it more real and understandable for patients.

They'll better grasp why certain procedures are recommended.

4. Discuss Pros and Cons

Don't present treatment plans one-sidedly, only highlighting the positives. Also acknowledge potential downsides like cost, time required, or possible discomfort. This shows objectivity and fairness on your part.

Patients will have more confidence in your recommendations knowing you've weighed both benefits and disadvantages.

5. Offer Options

Not all treatments have just one obvious solution. Where possible, provide alternative treatment plans and options. Giving patients choices and the ability to select the plan that best fits their needs and preferences increases their sense of autonomy and control. This facilitates agreement.

6. Break it Down

For patients with extensive treatment needs, the overall plan can seem daunting. Where appropriate, separate the full plan into phases, stages, or steps. Frame the initial phase as a reasonable start. Once completed, move onto the next phase. This makes expansive care seem more manageable and digestible.

7. Prioritize

 When presenting a comprehensive treatment plan, highlight which items are most important and urgent to address first. This provides focus for the patient. They'll be more inclined to agree to top priority treatments. Non-urgent procedures can come later.

8. Provide Cost Estimates

One of the biggest barriers to treatment acceptance is financial concern. Discuss costs upfront and have information on payment plans or financing options available. Patients want to know what they are agreeing to pay.

9. Be flexible

Within reason, try to accommodate patients' scheduling requests, constraints, and preferences. Make the logistics and timing of proposed care as hassle-free as possible. The more you can individualize around each patient's needs, the more likely they are to agree.

10. Follow up

After presenting a treatment plan, don't assume no response means agreement. Follow up to confirm patients are on board. Ask if they have any other questions or concerns. Proactive confirmation will catch issues.

11. Get Pre-Authorizations

 For patients with dental insurance coverage, verify what is covered and pre-authorize recommended procedures whenever possible. This prevents surprises where patients get a plan but insurance doesn't cover portions. 

12. Reflect on Declines

If a patient declines part or all of a treatment plan, take time to analyze why and learn for future discussions. Look for patterns among declined plans to improve your presentation approach.

13. Enlist Help

It's not always just the dentist talking. Have trained dental staff also help explain and reinforce the treatment plan details. Hearing congruent recommendations from multiple team members can help persuade patients.

14. Be Positive

When presenting a treatment plan, put emphasis on the benefits of accepting rather than the risks or consequences of declining. Give motivating reasons to say yes. Paint an optimistic picture of how their oral health will improve.

15. Make it about Health

Where applicable, tie dental treatment plans to overall health benefits - both oral and systemic. Motivate patients by talking about how procedures will not just address dental issues but also improve their broader health and wellbeing.

Conclusion

Taking a collaborative educational approach with your patients and incorporating these tips can help increase treatment plan acceptance. The more you can understand and address each patient's specific situation, motivations, and apprehensions, the better you can develop treatment plans they are willing and ready to say "yes" to.

Embracing automated Treatment plan reminders to improve your acceptance rate, like with mConsent, also goes a long way.