The Manifesto

Drastic times calls for drastic measures. The UK is now more dentally litigious than the USA. And whilst many of the cases taken against dentists are justified, many are not and could have been avoided. It is time we took our power back. It is upto you to take control of your dental practice, and determine the patients you want to treat. No longer should you treat all and sundry. No longer should you accept “heart sink” patients or people who are rude, disrespectful and downright unpleasant. Whilst it is true that many people act strangely when fear is entered into the equation, there is no excuse for behaviour that makes you and your staff feel uncomfortable or threatened. With that in mind, I give you the manifesto for treating patients in the 21st century.

Only treat patients you have rapport with and who you like as human beings

Remember that everyone has the right to be treated with courtesy and respect.

Set strict guidelines around what behaviour is acceptable and what isn’t. This should apply to patient, staff and dentists.

If patients break your rules, you should remove them from your practice.

If you break your rules, you need to determine what it is about yourself that is causing this

Vow not to tolerate rudeness, late payment or poor attendance

Never be persuaded to do treatment you don’t agree with

Set an ethical code, and stick to it

Be an understanding boss who rewards achievement and loyalty

As Gandhi once said, be the change you want to see in the world