Using Video to Reconnect with Patients After COVID-19
With plans afoot to reopen practices across Canada, one challenge for dentists is how to reconnect with patients and assure them that it is safe to return for treatment. Dr. Izchak Barzilay, a Principal at Prosthodontic Associates, Toronto, talks to Dr. John O’Keefe, Director of Knowledge Networks CDA, about how he is using video to break the ice with his patient base.
“People are feeling a lot of uncertainty,” says Dr. Barzilay. “We need to give them the feeling of authenticity, of warmth, and the sense that they are part of the family and that we want to see them.”
Dr. Barzilay initially posted a “walk through” video of the dental office to show patients what he was doing to prepare for a return to practice, and to let them know what to expect when they next visit. Then, following the publication of return to practice guidelines by the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario, he posted a second video to assure patients that it is okay to come back. Both posts received numerous positive responses, with multiple comments and requests for treatment.
“People are feeling a lot of uncertainty. We need to give them the feeling of authenticity, of warmth, and the sense that they are part of the family and that we want to see them.”
So, is this something that any dentist can do? Is it something that Dr. Barzilay will continue as a part of his communication toolkit?
“The equipment is very simple,” he says. “A light source, a camera and a tripod. This is the first time we’ve used video to reach our patients. I was amazed at the response. Yes, we will continue to use it."
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Until next time!
CDA Oasis Team