Effective utilization of forms for efficient office communication.

Abstract

The efficient use of forms can increase the effectiveness of communication with the office, staff, and with the patient. An effective form meets a specific need, does so in the simplest possible way, and is flexible in its use. The use of the modified buck slip with the pegboard system directs the treatment schedule for the receptionist, gives the patient more detailed financial information, and postpones the ledger card and journal entry until a more convenient time. It also permits you to communicate with the office staff in a clear manner. At the very least it eliminates second guessing. The use of the modified truth-in-lending form increases the effectiveness of the communication with the patient as to the procedures to be performed and reinforces the diagnosis and the payment arrangements. The use of a patient treatment follow-up slip provides a simple system for communication between the postoperative patient and doctor. Such forms increase the efficiency of the total practice.