Ep 7: The Drill Down on Patient Portions: Sorting Out What Patients Owe and Why

“Waaait, Dr. Dentist Office... why did you send me this bill? But I paid everything I was supposed to! You TOLD me I wouldn’t have to pay anything else!”If that conversation sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Confusion about patient portions is one of the biggest sources of billing disputes, frustrated patients, and lost revenue in dental practices.In this episode of The Truth Decay Podcast: Talking Dollars and Sense, Sara Baker and LaRae McMullen explain how to talk about patient portions clearly, consistently, confidently, and why they are not optional (wait, WHAT). Because again, here’s the truth: patients aren’t upset that dentistry costs money… they’re upset when that bill is a surprise (and like, not the good kind). Why set up a situation where patient portions are some weird mystery? It can be straightforward. Let's get you set up for success! Points we discuss include:The 3 key definitions to understanding patient portions: deductible, co-insurance, and co-pay (though in dentistry, one is a lil' loosey goosey, let's be real - listen and let us know if you agree!)Why writing off patient portions isn’t just bad policy—it’s a compliance violationHow surprises kill trust (and your AR) while clear estimates build stronger relationshipsThe 5 steps to making patient portions simple:Verify benefits earlyLet your PMS work for youCheck benefits per appointmentUse the same scripts every timeGet 👏 it 👏 in 👏 writing✨ To make this even easier, we’ve created a free resource: 5 Steps for Making Patient Portions Simple. Download it at thetruthdecaypodcast.com and use it to train your entire team.📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lk364o8-UNQ🎧 Or listen on Apple, Spotify, or any major podcast platform — just search The Truth Decay Podcast.💬 Got a question or story about patient portion struggles? We’d love to hear it. Reach out at [email protected] or connect with us at sddentalsolutions.com.#truthdecaypodcast #dentalbilling #dentalpodcast #patientportions #practiceprofits #dentistrybusiness #dentistlife #officemanagerlife #dentaladmin