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 need to talk about treatment options for your damaged tooth.” 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 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.