Successful dental practices want to stay ahead of the curve by finding effective ways to attract and retain uninsured patients. Why? A large part of the population, particularly adults over 60, does not have dental insurance. In fact, according to the 2023 State of Oral Health Equity in America survey, an estimated 68.5 million adults do not have dental insurance.
While this certainly presents a challenge to the dental landscape, it can also be a unique opportunity for innovative practices to attract and retain uninsured patients. How can they tap into this opportunity? Through the power of innovative dental membership software.
What is dental membership software, and how can it help practices attract and retain uninsured patients?
Dental membership software is a personalized subscription service for your practice. It removes the need to rely on third-party insurance companies and allows you to create your own in-house membership plans that your patients can take up and subscribe to for a set fee – this can be monthly or annually, you decide. A plan like this will cover things like preventative care, regular cleaning, necessary x-rays and examinations, and discounts on other treatments can also be applied.
The primary benefit of dental membership software is that it streamlines the entire process, from enrollment and payment to communication and renewal, making it easy for practice employees and patients to manage.
Why is it so important to attract and retain uninsured patients?
When you attract and retain uninsured patients, it isn’t just about filling appointment slots; it’s a strategic move for your practice’s long-term health and stability. The benefits for your practice include:
- A larger market share: Because the number of uninsured patients is growing steadily, if you can cater to this demographic, you have the power to unlock access to a growing and often underserved patient pool.
- Increased patient loyalty: Patients enrolled in your in-house membership plan will feel a direct connection to your practice, reducing the likelihood of them going to an alternate practice for their dental needs.
- More predictable revenue: Membership fees give your practice a consistent and predictable revenue stream, helping you better forecast your finances and plan for growth.
- Reduced administrative costs: Dealing directly with patients through your membership program can minimize the complexities and delays associated with insurance claims and approvals.
- Improved preventative care: When preventive care is made more affordable and accessible, patients are more likely to stick to regular checkups, which means better oral health outcomes. This can also potentially reduce the need for more extensive (and expensive) treatments down the line.
5 Ways Dental Membership Software Helps You Attract and Retain Uninsured Patients:
Leveraging dental membership software can be a game-changer for your practice and your efforts to attract and retain uninsured patients. Here’s how:
Affordable and transparent pricing
Membership plans provide transparent and predictable costs for essential dental care. By offering different tiers with varying levels of coverage, you can cater to a broader range of budgets and needs to attract and retain uninsured patients. This transparency builds trust and makes quality dental care accessible to those who may opt not to do it because of cost restrictions.
Simplified access to care
Enrolling in a membership plan is much simpler than navigating complex traditional insurance. Patients can easily sign up online or in your office, making the process seamless and hassle-free. This ease of access removes a significant barrier for uninsured individuals who want regular dental care.
Build direct relationships and enhance loyalty
By offering your own in-house plan, you’re building a direct relationship with your patients, without having to wade through intermediaries of insurance companies. You can personalize their experience, build stronger connections, and keep their loyalty because they feel valued. They’re also much more likely to return for future care and recommend your practice to friends and family.
Targeted marketing and communication
Modernization isn’t just about upgrading the software; it’s about empowering the people who use it daily. That’s why comprehensive training, support and ongoing knowledge sharing are vital. When your team understands the new dental membership software, they are equipped to embrace it, grow with it, and leverage its capabilities to innovate and enhance patient relationships.
The ultimate goal isn’t just to implement better software; it’s to leave your dental practice stronger, more agile in responding to patient needs, and more confident in its ability to evolve and thrive in the modern healthcare landscape.
Increased patient loyalty through value-added benefits
Membership plans can include exclusive benefits beyond basic preventive care, like discounts on other treatments, priority scheduling, or even family add-on options. These value-added perks can further motivate patients to join and stay members.
The ability to attract and retain uninsured patients can no longer be considered a secondary activity. It must be your primary focus if your practice wants to reap the benefits of this large patient pool.
Isn’t it time to explore how Plan Forward can help you unlock this potential?
