Abstract

SYKES, LM; VAN DEN BERGH, HT; NETHONONDA, P  and  BERNITZ, H. Listening: The most valuable service you won't charge for!. S. Afr. dent. j. [online]. 2025, vol.80, n.3, pp.218-220. ISSN 0375-1562.

Dental practitioners cannot charge additional fees for the time spent "listening" to their patients, however, the non-financial cost benefits of this time spent may be of a far greater value than is generally realised. Consciously paying attention to a patient and engaging in meaningful communication with them play a valuable part in providing patient-centred care and fostering a positive healthcare experience. Time constraints and billing pressures are a reality in today's clinical practice. The art of listening to patients aligns with both ethical care and sustainable practice management. It's about balancing financial viability with compassionate patient care.

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