Office computerization using a scanner to maximize temporomandibular disorder correspondence

In this time of increased temporomandibular disorder (TMD) therapy, it has become necessary for the clinician to proportionately increase his/her office documentation. The legal profession has strongly advised the dental profession that the best deterrent to litigation is maximum documentation. This has increased the paperwork of any office dealing with TMD patients on a regular basis. This paper presents the author's experiences and evaluation of one software company that claims to improve office efficiency and speed at the same time. The Patient Communications Systems, Inc. (PCS) is presented after more than four years of clinical experience in the author's practice. There are three forms that comprise the TMD package: (1) health questionnaire; (2) clinical evaluation; and (3) radiographic exam, diagnosis, and treatment plan. Each form is presented along with some of the narratives that can be generated. Some constructive suggestions have been made to help the overall flow of information that is relative to the author's office. This correspondence system has proven to be very time efficient, and has improved the level of correspondence in this referral practice multifold.