Cost transparency and upfront insurance coverage details may be essential for building dental patient satisfaction, as cost remains the biggest obstacle to treatment acceptance, according to a recent report from Vyne Dental.
Additionally, patients prefer digital tools for managing appointments and getting payment updates, according to the report.
"Providers who embrace advanced digital solutions are not only better positioned to build trust and improve patient satisfaction, but to reduce administrative burden and boost revenue cycle performance for their practices,” James Grover, MBA, president of Vyne Dental, said in a press release dated January 22.
The survey of 500 U.S. dental patients revealed that 78% of patients prioritize straightforward insurance coverage information, emphasizing the need for real-time eligibility verification to build trust and reduce payment friction. Clear coverage details were key to overcoming cost barriers, which remained the primary obstacle to acceptance of treatment.
Proactive financial communication was highly valued, with 93% of participants favoring payment reminders and 87% preferring digital formats like emails or text messages. Text messaging stood out as the top reminder method, preferred by almost half of the respondents, according to the report.
Furthermore, technology adoption was strongly linked to patient trust, showing a 75% increase when digital tools were utilized. Modern payment solutions and technology-enabled practice management not only addressed cost concerns but also enhanced practice efficiency and patient confidence, according to the results.
"These findings demonstrate patient demand for innovative, technology-driven solutions from their dentists," Grover said in the release.
