Cue that epic intro music. Yeah, you know the one I’m talking about—heavy beats that make you feel like you’re about to save the world, or at least avoid a pile of claim denials. Maybe we’ll even throw in a kazoo, because why not?
Jordon Comstock: Hey, everyone! Welcome back to the Navigating Dental Insurance Podcast, where we pull back the curtain on the dental insurance world and expose what’s really happening—no sugarcoating here! I’m your host, Jordon Comstock, and with me is the man, the myth, the claim-crushing legend, Ben Tuinei. What’s good, Ben?
Ben Tuinei: Oh, you know, Jordon. Just the usual… fighting insurance claim rejections one denial at a time. And you won’t believe it—there’s a thunderstorm outside. How poetic, right?
Jordon Comstock: Haha! Perfect metaphor for a Monday full of rejection emails. But buckle up, folks, because today we’re talking about how to win the ultimate showdown: dental insurance claims versus the Terminator-level AI systems rejecting them. Our special guest, Susan Laine, is here to save the day. Susan, welcome!
Susan Laine: Thanks, Jordon! Thrilled to be here. And don’t worry—no actual bombs today. Unless, of course, you count dropping some knowledge bombs about the insurance world.
The New AI Game of Dental Insurance Tag
Here’s the real talk. If you’ve ever felt like your insurance claims are getting rejected faster than a dad joke at a Gen Z party, well, you’re definitely not alone. News flash: Dental insurance companies have officially embraced AI, but not the poetry-writing kind. Nope, we’re talking about Terminator-level AI trained to reject claims with ruthless efficiency.
Ben Tuinei: Yeah, and these AI systems are like cyborg bouncers for insurance companies. Hyper-efficient, no nonsense, and ready to deny your claim for the tiniest slip-up. Imagine a robot guarding the velvet rope at a nightclub, but instead of turning away partygoers, it’s blocking your meticulously prepared insurance claims.
Susan Laine: Exactly. They scan your claim like a hawk—or maybe more like a robotic hawk with X-ray vision. One tiny issue, like a perio chart that’s a frame short or a radiograph that’s just slightly off? BAM! Denied. No appeals, no questions asked. It’s like playing The Hunger Games, but with dental paperwork.
How to Fight Back: Use AI Against AI
Yes, that’s right. If insurance companies are going to unleash AI to wreck your day, why not fight fire with fire? Consider AI your secret weapon, your dental Excalibur in this never-ending battle of wits and bytes.
Jordon Comstock: Susan, you shared a genius tip earlier that’s so simple yet powerful. Care to drop it on our listeners?
Susan Laine: Happy to! Here’s the trick: Always, always send claims with every possible piece of documentation. Leave no room for AI-powered rejection. And yes, leverage AI tools like ChatGPT to craft clear, precise narratives. Think of it like sending a bulletproof brief to your robo-adversary.
Jordon Comstock: So you’re saying, when insurance companies use tech to block us, we double down on tech to outsmart them? I’m in! Sounds like a tech-driven David versus Goliath story. Or maybe it’s just a really satisfying game of claim-judo.
But Seriously, Why Is Change So Hard?
Now, let’s talk about the ugly truth: change. Why is it so hard for dental practices to adopt new strategies, even when they can save time, money, and sanity? Because, spoiler alert, change is uncomfortable, and the human brain? Well, it hates discomfort almost as much as dentists hate a no-show.
Susan Laine: It’s simple neuroscience, Jordon. People are creatures of habit. Our brains are wired to crave routine and stability. And then there’s the anxiety factor—like when you get a surprise letter from the IRS or try to introduce AI tools to your office.
Jordon Comstock: Ah, yes, our beloved brains. Great for inventing things like fire and pizza, but terrible at dealing with insurance claim chaos. So, Susan, any pro tips for getting teams on board with the new tech?
4-Step Plan to Survive Change Without Losing Your Mind
Step 1: Reassure Your Team
Start by reminding everyone of the things that won’t change. Maybe it’s your undying love for office snacks or your strict rule about playing only 80s rock in the office. Stability is important, even if it’s just the familiar thumping of “Eye of the Tiger” on repeat.
Step 2: Explain the Why
Be real with your team. Break it down like this: “Look, we’re losing serious cash on denied claims. Fewer paid claims means fewer Taco Tuesdays and less funding for the annual floss-themed piñata. Let’s embrace AI so we can afford more tacos—and keep the lights on.”
Step 3: Make It Fun
Host a “Techie Tuesday” where everyone shares AI-generated success stories. Make it a competition: who can get the fastest claim approval? Winner gets a golden floss trophy (okay, maybe not actual gold, but you get the idea).
Step 4: Celebrate Wins
Every time a claim gets paid faster thanks to AI, have a mini party. Balloons, confetti, or a cake shaped like a dental chair—your call. Keep the momentum going by acknowledging every small win.
Ben Tuinei: It’s like Pavlov’s dog experiment, but instead of a bell, we’re celebrating AI claim victories. Woof, woof!
And Don’t Forget the Patients!
Oh, you thought that was it? Nope. Changing up your systems might save you money, but don’t forget: it can confuse the heck out of your patients. If you’re introducing new associates or services, get ahead of it. Try sending a friendly video to your patients. People love videos—it’s science. It helps them connect with your team before they’re sitting in the dental hot seat.
Jordon Comstock: That’s the game plan, folks! Use AI, keep your team motivated, and don’t forget to laugh along the way. If insurance companies want to throw down with AI, we say, “Bring it on!” Thanks for joining us, and we’ll catch you on the next Navigating Dental Insurance Podcast. Until then, may your claims be swift and your Mondays free of denials!
