What Are Effective Methods for Building Rapport With New Patients?
DentistExperts.net
What Are Effective Methods for Building Rapport With New Patients?
In the world of healthcare, establishing a strong connection with new patients is crucial for their overall experience and treatment outcome. Owner Orthodontists and Dentists share their top strategies for making patients feel at ease from the very first appointment. This article begins with focusing on the patient's experience first and concludes with the importance of creating a relaxed environment, offering a total of three expert insights. Read on to discover these invaluable methods that have proven successful in building rapport.
- Focus on Patient's Experience First
- Have Genuine Conversations
- Create a Relaxed Environment
Focus on Patient's Experience First
As a dentist and orthodontist for more than 15 years, I've learned that building rapport is about focusing on the patient's experience first. Then, be authentic and personable. Don't be afraid to express your individuality while maintaining professionalism.
Before even coming to our office for the first time, new patients receive personalized greeting videos from me. This simple, personal touch helps them feel comfortable before setting foot in the office and gives them an introduction to who I am as their orthodontist. It's also our way of expressing gratitude for choosing our office for their smile journey. I believe that this gesture helps set the stage for a positive relationship with both the patients and their families.
When they arrive at the office, we make an effort to not make them wait long. We come out to the waiting area and shake their hands and introduce ourselves. We make sure to maintain that same warm and friendly atmosphere conveyed through the personalized greeting video. Once seated, we get to know our patients by asking about their interests, from sports and hobbies, to school and work. This helps patients feel seen and valued as individuals, not just as patients. We then ask their feelings about seeking treatment to air those emotions out in the open. These personal but light conversations help ease any nerves, especially for those who may be anxious about starting their orthodontic journey.
Once patients have started treatment and are returning for additional appointments, we have an area in our charts where we add relevant notes to remind us of interests and hobbies that are relevant to that particular patient and that we have previously connected on. This helps jog the memories of staff that have already met the patient to recall important personal details about them. It also helps new staff that has not yet met that patient resume the rapport. This helps the patient feel that their life is important enough to the team that we bothered to communicate to each other about what the patient cares about.
Rapport building is an ongoing process for new patients not only between the time a patient calls to schedule their initial appointment and when they start treatment but also throughout their treatment until the end. Focus on hospitality and convenience. Treat each patient personally, making their experience as easy and comfortable as possible.
Scott Cardall
https://www.myoremortho.com/
Have Genuine Conversations
Hi,
Building rapport with new patients starts with creating a welcoming and personalized experience right from their first interaction. A method that's been particularly successful is taking the time to have a genuine, non-clinical conversation before we begin any treatment. I ask questions about their lives, interests, or concerns, showing them I'm invested in them as individuals, not just as patients.
For instance, I had a new patient who seemed nervous during their first visit. Instead of diving straight into the exam, I asked about their hobbies and discovered they were an avid gardener. We spent a few minutes talking about their favorite plants, which helped them relax and built a connection. By the time we started the appointment, they felt more at ease and even mentioned they were surprised at how comfortable they felt in a dental chair for the first time.
Best,
Kalli
Create a Relaxed Environment
As an experienced dentist with years of experience, I know that building rapport with new patients begins the moment they walk through the door. I make it a point to greet each patient warmly, with a smile and a calm, welcoming tone. Creating a relaxed environment helps ease their nerves, especially for those who might feel anxious about dental visits. Simple gestures like addressing them by name and maintaining friendly eye contact go a long way in making them feel valued.
One method that has worked exceptionally well for me is active listening. I always start by asking patients about their concerns, dental history, or even their goals for their smile. Rather than jumping straight into treatment options, I take the time to understand what's important to them. This builds trust and shows that I genuinely care about their well-being. When a patient feels heard, they are more likely to open up, which makes the entire process smoother for both of us.
Another key strategy I use is education. I explain every step of their visit, from routine cleanings to more complex procedures, in simple terms so they can feel informed and empowered. By fostering transparency and understanding, I help patients feel more comfortable and confident about their dental care. Over the years, this approach has not only strengthened my relationships with patients but also encouraged them to return for regular checkups and recommend my services to others.
