Orthodontic Technician Onboarding Checklist

Orthodontic Technician Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Orthodontic Technician 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 Orthodontic Technician, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Orthodontic Technician onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Orthodontic Technician Onboarding Checklist

1. Introduction to the company: The new orthodontic technician should be provided with a comprehensive introduction to the company, including its history, mission, values, and organizational structure. This task is typically performed by the human resources department or a designated company representative.

2. Orientation to the workplace: The new technician should be given a tour of the workplace, including the orthodontic clinic, laboratory, and any other relevant areas. This will help them familiarize themselves with the physical layout of the company and locate important facilities. The task is usually performed by a senior technician or a supervisor.

3. Introduction to team members: It is crucial for the new orthodontic technician to meet and get to know their colleagues. This task involves introducing the new hire to the rest of the team, including other technicians, orthodontists, and administrative staff. The team leader or supervisor typically performs this task.

4. Review of company policies and procedures: The new technician should receive a thorough review of the company’s policies and procedures, including those related to patient care, safety protocols, infection control, and confidentiality. This task is usually performed by the human resources department or a designated trainer.

5. Training on equipment and tools: The new technician should receive training on the specific equipment and tools used in the orthodontic clinic and laboratory. This includes learning how to operate and maintain orthodontic instruments, X-ray machines, sterilization equipment, and computer software. The training is typically conducted by experienced technicians or equipment specialists.

6. Familiarization with patient management systems: The new technician should be trained on the patient management system used by the company, which includes scheduling appointments, updating patient records, and billing. This task is usually performed by the administrative staff or a designated trainer.

7. Understanding of treatment protocols: The new technician should receive training on the various orthodontic treatment protocols used by the company. This includes learning about different types of braces, aligners, retainers, and other orthodontic appliances, as well as understanding the steps involved in each treatment process. The training is typically provided by orthodontists or experienced technicians.

8. Hands-on practice: The new technician should be given opportunities for hands-on practice under the guidance of experienced technicians. This includes practicing taking impressions, pouring models, fabricating appliances, and assisting with patient procedures. The hands-on practice is typically supervised by senior technicians or orthodontists.

9. Introduction to patient communication: The new technician should be trained on effective communication with patients, including how to greet them, explain procedures, and address their concerns. This task is usually performed by experienced technicians or orthodontists, who provide guidance and role-playing scenarios.

10. Compliance with regulatory requirements: The new technician should receive training on compliance with regulatory requirements, such as HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) and OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) guidelines. This includes understanding patient privacy, infection control, and workplace safety protocols. The training is typically provided by the human resources department or a designated trainer.

11. Ongoing professional development: The new technician should be encouraged to engage in ongoing professional development to enhance their skills and knowledge. This may involve attending conferences, workshops, or online courses related to orthodontics. The company may provide financial support or resources to facilitate this development.

12. Performance evaluation and feedback: The new technician should undergo regular performance evaluations to assess their progress and provide constructive feedback. This task is typically performed by the supervisor or team leader, who conducts performance reviews and sets goals for improvement.

13. Integration into the company culture: The new technician should be encouraged to participate in company events, team-building activities, and social gatherings to foster a sense of belonging and integration into the company culture. This task is typically facilitated by the human resources department or a designated culture ambassador.

14. Mentorship and support: The new technician should be assigned a mentor or a buddy who can provide guidance, support, and answer any questions they may have during their initial period with the company. This mentorship is typically facilitated by the supervisor or team leader.

15. Review of company benefits and policies: The new technician should receive a comprehensive review of the company’s benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, vacation policies, and any other relevant policies. This task is typically performed by the human resources department or a designated benefits coordinator.

16. Introduction to emergency protocols: The new technician should be trained on emergency protocols, including how to respond to medical emergencies, fire drills, and evacuation procedures. This task is typically performed by the supervisor or a designated safety officer.

17. Introduction to quality assurance and continuous improvement: The new technician should be introduced to the company’s quality assurance program and encouraged to participate in continuous improvement initiatives. This may involve participating in quality audits, suggesting process improvements, or attending quality improvement meetings. The task is typically facilitated by the quality assurance department or a designated quality manager.

18. Review of ethical guidelines: The new technician should receive training on ethical guidelines specific to the orthodontic profession, including patient confidentiality, professional boundaries, and conflict of interest. This task is typically performed by the human resources department or a designated ethics officer.

19. Introduction to research and innovation: The new technician should be made aware of any ongoing research projects or innovation initiatives within the company. This may involve attending research presentations, participating in data collection, or contributing to innovation brainstorming sessions. The task is typically facilitated by the research and development department or a designated research coordinator.

20. Final review and feedback: After a designated period, the new technician should undergo a final review and feedback session to assess their overall performance and address any remaining questions or concerns. This task is typically performed by the supervisor or team leader, who provides a comprehensive evaluation and sets expectations for future growth

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Orthodontic Technician checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Orthodontic Technician 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.