3-8.
DISMISSING THE PATIENT
When the dental officer has completed treatment, the dental officer makes proper
entries on the patient's permanent dental health record. If further treatment is required, an
appointment is arranged by the dental specialist.
3-9.
USING THE TELEPHONE
a. General. Another aspect of public relations contributing to the patient's opinion
of the dental service is the manner that clinic personnel use the telephone. When speaking
to a patient or when making other business calls, the dental specialist represents the dental
service. If he is pleasant, courteous, and businesslike, the listener receives a favorable
impression of the dental service.
b. Guidelines for Telephone Use.
(1)
Answer calls promptly.
(2) Answer in a friendly, courteous manner, speaking directly into the
mouthpiece in a quiet, distinct voice.
(3) Answer calls by identifying your clinic and yourself, for example, "Post
Dental Clinic, Specialist Jones speaking, sir or ma'am."
(4) Take a message or ask if you may be of service when the call is for
someone not available. A pad of Standard Form 63 (Memorandum of Call) should be kept
near the telephone for this purpose.
(5) Make sure that you are calling a correct number when placing a call. A
wrong number may interfere unnecessarily with another person's work. If you do receive a
wrong number, apologize and hang up.
(6) Do not prolong telephone conversations unnecessarily. The telephone is
provided as an aid in conducting dental activities; therefore, its use is restricted to official
calls only.
(7) Make sure proper entries are recorded in the appointment book following
any telephone conversation resulting in making or changing an appointment.
(8)
Avoid needless personal calls.
MD0510
3-7