Family Dentist Onboarding Checklist

Family Dentist Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Family Dentist starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Healthcare onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Family Dentist, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Family Dentist onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Family Dentist Onboarding Checklist

1. Credentialing and Licensing: This task involves obtaining the necessary credentials and licenses to practice as a family dentist in the specific state or region. The dentist or their office manager typically handles this task, ensuring all required documents, applications, and fees are submitted to the appropriate licensing boards and insurance companies.

2. Familiarization with Company Policies and Procedures: It is crucial for a new family dentist to understand the company’s policies and procedures to ensure compliance and smooth operations. This task involves reviewing employee handbooks, office protocols, and any other relevant documents. The office manager or human resources department typically provides this information and answers any questions.

3. Introduction to the Dental Team: Building relationships with the dental team is essential for effective collaboration and patient care. The new dentist should be introduced to the dental assistants, hygienists, receptionists, and other staff members. The office manager or senior dentist usually facilitates these introductions and provides an overview of each team member’s role and responsibilities.

4. Orientation to the Office and Equipment: Familiarizing the new dentist with the office layout, equipment, and technology is crucial for efficient workflow. This task involves a tour of the facility, including the treatment rooms, sterilization area, radiography room, and any other relevant areas. The office manager or senior dentist typically conducts this orientation.

5. Review of Patient Management Systems: Understanding the practice’s patient management systems, such as electronic health records and scheduling software, is vital for seamless patient care. The office manager or designated staff member should provide training on these systems, including how to schedule appointments, document patient information, and access relevant records.

6. Introduction to Practice Management Software: Many dental practices utilize practice management software for tasks like billing, insurance claims, and financial reporting. The new dentist should receive training on how to navigate and utilize this software effectively. The office manager or designated staff member typically provides this training.

7. Review of Infection Control and Safety Protocols: Maintaining a safe and sterile environment is crucial in a dental practice. The new dentist should receive comprehensive training on infection control protocols, including proper hand hygiene, personal protective equipment usage, and sterilization procedures. The office manager or senior dentist typically oversees this training.

8. Introduction to Emergency Protocols: Dental emergencies can occur, and it is essential for the new dentist to be familiar with the practice’s emergency protocols. This task involves reviewing emergency procedures, including how to handle medical emergencies, manage patient pain, and contact emergency services if needed. The senior dentist or office manager typically provides this training.

9. Review of Insurance and Billing Processes: Understanding the practice’s insurance and billing processes is crucial for accurate and efficient financial management. The new dentist should receive training on how to submit insurance claims, handle patient billing inquiries, and navigate any relevant software or systems. The office manager or designated staff member typically provides this training.

10. Introduction to Continuing Education Opportunities: As a healthcare professional, staying updated with the latest advancements and techniques is essential. The new dentist should be informed about the practice’s commitment to continuing education and provided with information on available courses, conferences, and resources. The senior dentist or office manager typically shares this information and encourages participation.

11. Introduction to Marketing and Patient Acquisition Strategies: Understanding the practice’s marketing and patient acquisition strategies is crucial for building a successful patient base. The new dentist should receive an overview of the practice’s marketing initiatives, including online presence, community outreach, and patient referral programs. The office manager or designated staff member typically provides this information.

12. Introduction to Practice Philosophy and Patient Care Approach: Each dental practice may have a unique philosophy and approach to patient care. The new dentist should be introduced to the practice’s values, mission, and patient care philosophy. This task involves discussing the importance of patient satisfaction, communication, and ethical considerations. The senior dentist or office manager typically leads this discussion.

13. Shadowing and Mentoring Opportunities: To gain practical experience and learn the practice’s specific techniques, the new dentist should have opportunities to shadow and be mentored by experienced dentists in the practice. This task involves scheduling shadowing sessions and mentorship opportunities with senior dentists. The office manager or senior dentist typically coordinates these arrangements.

14. Introduction to Referral Networks and Specialists: Familiarizing the new dentist with the practice’s referral networks and relationships with specialists is crucial for comprehensive patient care. This task involves providing information on trusted specialists, their contact details, and the referral process. The senior dentist or office manager typically provides this information and facilitates introductions if necessary.

15. Review of Ethical and Legal Considerations: Understanding the ethical and legal obligations of a family dentist is essential for maintaining professional standards and avoiding legal issues. This task involves reviewing ethical guidelines, patient confidentiality, informed consent, and other legal considerations. The senior dentist or office manager typically provides this training and answers any questions

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Family Dentist checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Family Dentist up to speed and working well in your Healthcare team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.