Receptionist - Overview
Many dental practices employ receptionists on a part time basis. Their role is to ensure that the appointment book is maintained in a way that maximises the use of time for clinical staff, to look after all incoming telephone calls and ensure that there is a smooth flow of patients between the waiting room and the dental surgery.
The receptionist needs to be properly trained and experienced in organisational and administrative skills together with being an excellent communicator. The job often suits a married woman wishing to return to employment as her young family grows up and without the need for re-training or being committed to returning to the responsibility of a career. The receptionist may be expected to accept the additional responsibility of keeping an account of all financial transactions as dental treatment progresses and entering these in the patient records.
No formal qualifications are required but a mature attitude and a conscientious approach that at all times protects patient confidentiality are fundamental pre-requisites to what can be an enjoyable and fulfilling role in the dental practice.
