Tom Hester explains how Densura is adding value to the thorny issue of consent through a new initiative.
As someone who has been involved with Densura from the beginning, I’ve witnessed first-hand the dynamic landscape of dental claims and consent procedures.
We embarked on this journey a decade ago, responding to the significant increases in dental indemnity. Our mission was to provide a sustainable alternative to the major medical defence organisations, and offer a unique claim service that was not only contractual but also instantly accessible to dentists.
Consent – the Achilles’ heel
In my 16 years of experience, one common frustration across all practices is the issue of consent. Consent, though a familiar term, has often been the Achilles’ heel for many practitioners. Even when they are not at fault, the lack of comprehensive documentation often swings the case in favour of the patient.
Echoing the US trend, the UK is witnessing a surge in claims. The ease of access to legal services and the proliferation of ‘no win, no fee’ options have intensified this trend. It’s not uncommon to see firms advertising and suggesting legal actions to potential claimants. This scenario underscores the urgent need for a robust and foolproof consent procedure.
Current methods of obtaining consent, though prevalent, are riddled with gaps. I recall a case where a dentist had obtained consent but still faced legal challenges due to an oversight in the documentation. This incident amplifies the necessity for a detailed and meticulous approach in obtaining and recording consent.
Embracing iConsentu
This is why we’ve been so delighted to partner with iConsentu – a revolutionary tool that I believe fills these gaps efficiently. Through informative, easy-to-digest videos, it guides the patient towards full understanding through participation. The patient cannot progress without answering some simple questions based on the videos. The digital platform is designed to ensure patients are educated about every aspect of the procedure, including potential negative outcomes.
All Densura policy holders are now entitled to a year’s access to iConsentu. Our partnership is born from a shared vision of adding value to the dental practice. At Densura, we have always been committed to evolving and improving our products – iConsentu is an extension of this commitment. It promises a future where consent is not just a procedural requirement but a comprehensive, educational, and engaging process for both practitioners and patients.
We know how people feel about insurance, but it shouldn’t be a begrudged annual payment. Rather, a valuable resource that aids the daily operations of a dental practice.
The integration of iConsentu plays a part in making this vision a reality. As we continue this journey, the focus remains on offering sustainable, value-added services to dentists, ensuring that consent procedures are not just compliant but exceed the GDC’s requirements, offering peace of mind to practitioners and patients alike.
For more information, visit www.densura.com.
