How to write a script (Part 1): Identify the goal of the script. Is it communication, education, case acceptance or cooperation? With the goal in mind, write a topic sentence. This opening sentence should describe what you are about to discuss. For example, “Mrs. Brown, we want to discuss moving Suzie from observation to actual treatment in the next three months.” Or, “Mr. Johnson, we need to discuss your account balance.” It’s important to introduce scripts with a topic sentence to set the framework. The parent (or patient) will then be better prepared for what is about to be discussed.

Management Monday: Read a free excerpt from Dr. Roger P. Levin’s book Essential Scripts for Patient Communication. Go here and click on the “Read an Excerpt” button.