5 Proven Strategies to Help Canadian Dental Patients Use Their Insurance Benefits Before Year-End

As the year-end approaches, many Canadians risk losing their unused dental insurance benefits. With most Canadian dental plans operating on a “use-it-or-lose-it” system, patients often miss out on essential treatments or preventive care. The good news? Your dental practice can guide them in maximizing these benefits while ensuring your schedule stays full during the busy holiday season.
Here are five actionable strategies Canadian dentists can implement to remind patients about their expiring insurance benefits:

1.Send Personalized Email Campaigns

Emails are one of the most effective ways to engage directly with your patients. A well-crafted email can:

• Highlight remaining dental insurance benefits, like cleanings or restorative treatments.
• Educate patients on how most Canadian dental plans reset on January 1.
• Encourage quick action with clear calls to schedule their appointments.

What to Include in Your Email:

• Explain the financial advantages of using their benefits now.
• Add links to your online appointment system for easy booking.
• Tailor messages for specific patient groups, like those needing routine exams or unfinished procedures.

Pro Tip: Use automation tools to segment patient lists by insurance type or treatment history. For example, target patients who searched for “dentist near me” and booked six months ago.

2.Leverage Social Media to Boost Engagement

Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram are perfect for educating patients about their benefits. Ensure your practice stays top-of-mind for searches like “family dentist in Canada” by sharing engaging posts and updates.

Content Ideas for Canadian Dentists:

• Use visuals: Post countdowns like “Only X weeks left to use your 2023 benefits!”
• Share quick video reels explaining how insurance plans in Canada work.
• Highlight stats: “Did you know most patients lose over $500 in unused benefits annually?”

Engagement Strategies:

• Host giveaways encouraging patients to schedule their year-end appointments.
• Promote urgency: “Appointments are filling up fast—don’t miss out!”

Extra Tip: Include hashtags like #CanadianDentalCare and #UseItOrLoseIt to expand your local reach.

3.Make Personal Phone Calls

Digital tools are great, but nothing beats the impact of a direct, personal call. Your reception team can connect with patients who have incomplete treatments or are overdue for routine check-ups.

What to Say:

• Start with: “Hi [Patient’s Name], we noticed you still have unused insurance benefits for 2023. We’d love to help you make the most of them.”
• Mention services like “routine cleanings” or “finishing the dental crown from spring.”
• Offer flexible booking options to fit their schedule.

Why It Works: Phone calls build trust and show you genuinely care about their oral health. Plus, they are more effective for patients already searching for local services like “dentist near me in Canada.”

4.Feature Benefits in Your Monthly Newsletter

A newsletter is a cost-effective tool to educate and engage. Dedicate a section to remind patients about their benefits before they expire.

What to Include:

• Success stories of patients who saved money by acting early.
• A list of treatments covered by Canadian dental insurance, such as cleanings, X-rays, or fillings.
• Links to quick surveys that help your office schedule appointments efficiently.

Design Tip: Use bold visuals and titles like “Don’t Waste Your 2023 Dental Benefits!” to grab attention.

5.Display Reminders in Your Office

Your office is a goldmine for patient engagement. Use posters, digital screens, and flyers to remind patients about expiring benefits while they wait for their appointments.

Where to Place Reminders:

• Check-in and check-out counters.
• Waiting areas with digital displays.
• Handouts patients can take home.

Key Messaging: “Most dental insurance benefits reset on January 1. Don’t lose what you’ve already paid for—book your appointment today!”

Pro Tip: Add your practice’s branding and contact information for a professional touch.

Why Your Practice Should Act Now

Helping patients maximize their Canadian dental insurance benefits isn’t just about their health—it’s also great for your practice. Here’s how:

• Patient Satisfaction: Patients see you as proactive and caring.
• Increased Revenue: Fill end-of-year appointment gaps and maintain a busy schedule.
• Stronger Relationships: Personalized reminders foster trust and loyalty.

Start implementing these strategies early to ensure your patients take action before it’s too late. Not only will your efforts boost bookings, but you’ll also reinforce your role as a trusted Canadian dental provider.

-Team Ebiko