NEW PATIENT TIPS from Karl Parker Seminars: billyb@hyperusa.net Dr. Karl strongly suggests that you use a written report of findings and recommendations. A written report will help establish patient control as much as any one procedure you can use. In a proper patient procedure, the written report is usually given on the second visit, i.e., after the initial consultation, examination and x-rays have all been completed. Can you have a successful practice without using a written report? Sure you can. The written report just makes it that much easier. It makes the doctor take enough time to review the consultation, examination and x- ray findings to arrive at a proper diagnosis, prognosis and recommendations that are best for the patient. It gives the patient a better understanding of the recommendations and a way to remember what the doctor said, without misunderstandings after they leave the office. Making specific recommendations for treatment in the beginning allows the CA to better plan the appointment schedule. Even if there are no other reasons for a written report, and there are many, the ones listed are enough to more than make a written report worth the time and effort.