title: First impressions count. Initial contact--receptionist.
abstract: Having visited many dental practices over the years, we are aware that from the patient's point of view the initial contact with the receptionist can be either extremely off-putting or an excellent introduction to the practice. This is so important that we suggest you try going to the practice of some colleagues unannounced to experience this for yourself. There is nothing like being treated as a patient in reception or on the telephone to bring home a few hard and unpleasant facts about the difficulty of getting this important area of patient care right. Herb Brathwaite has written an article which not only highlights the areas to look for, but also how to start taking action to improve your own reception if you wish.
authors.forename: H
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Brathwaite
mesh_terms: D003727:Dental Auxiliaries; D006801:Humans; D010559:Personnel Management; D011215:Practice Management, Dental