Online screening for scheduling dental appointments: alternative during the period of social isolation

In many cities in Brazil, there are still restrictions on the movement of people due to the coronavirus pandemic. As a result, many dentists may not be working, and even when they are, many patients choose to stay home at that time.

So, you must be creative to make connections and not lose patients because of social isolation. The internet, for example, is an incredible ally of dentists, not only in quarantine, but always when it is necessary to approach patients.

Of course, online consultations are not possible, after all you need to see the patient to make a diagnosis and make a treatment. However, dental problems can arise with people respecting the insulation at home or not. For this reason, many dental professionals are using online screening to circumvent the distance.

Video chats with patients

Screening online means talking by video call with each patient to be able to identify whether there is urgency or not. Thus it is possible to discover the symptoms and identify if it is the case to ask the person to go to the office.

In some cases, when it is possible to wait or guide for treatment at home, you can avoid the person having to leave the house. This is a way to help patients who would have to take public transport and be exposed to contact with many people to go to the office, for example. These screenings can be done by WhatsApp, Google Hangouts, Skype or Zoom.

In addition, video calls can also be used for those patients who have just had surgery and need follow-up. It is possible to show concern, to know how they are and to keep in touch with them even if everyone is at home.

Tips for getting ahead after the pandemic

What we do know is that, at some point, things will return to normal and dental care too. However, the good results after the pandemic will only appear for those who took the time to clean up and get home and review strategies.

SMS campaigns, messages on WhatsApp, social media posts and the investment in a good digital presence make the offices come out ahead when the movement returns to normal.

Maintaining communication strategies is essential to continue supporting patients in terms of health and to maintain this link. It is essential for people to remember your office as soon as they have the need or desire to have a treatment.

Sending a text message campaign, a week and posting to social media at least three times a week are good strategies for surviving the crisis. Also remember that videos, in addition to video calls, are important in bringing you closer to patients. Recording short videos with oral health tips to publish on the networks is a strategy to strengthen your brand in times of isolation and get ahead of the competition.

Source: Dentista Organizado. Available at: https://www.dentistaorganizado.com.br/noticia.html?id=324&Triagem-online-alternativa-no-isolamento.htm. Access on: 05/13/2020.