What must be included in a written treatment plan for a patient?

Including proposed procedures, rationale, risks, and estimated costs in a written treatment plan is essential for ensuring that the patient fully understands the nature and scope of their dental care. By outlining the proposed procedures, the plan offers clarity regarding what treatments will be performed and why they are necessary. The rationale provides the reasoning behind each procedure, helping to inform the patient of the benefits and expected outcomes.

Identifying risks is critical for obtaining informed consent, as patients should be aware of potential complications or consequences associated with the treatment options. Lastly, estimated costs allow the patient to prepare for the financial aspect of their care, ensuring there are no surprises along the way.

While including the patient's personal details is important for record-keeping and identification, it does not contribute to the treatment plan's content in the same substantive way that the proposed procedures, rationale, risks, and estimated costs do. Additionally, recommendations for future visits, while useful, are secondary to the immediate treatment plan and do not encompass the comprehensive information necessary for informed consent during the specific treatment cycle. Therefore, a well-rounded treatment plan must convey all these essential elements to facilitate effective communication and understanding between the healthcare provider and the patient.