Question 1

Is texting patients HIPAA compliant?

Accepted Answer

Yes, when done correctly. PracticeDilly's texting platform is fully HIPAA compliant with encryption, secure storage, access controls, and audit logging. We sign Business Associate Agreements (BAAs) with all healthcare clients. The key is using a purpose-built healthcare texting platform rather than personal phones or generic messaging apps, which lack the security controls HIPAA requires.

Question 2

Can patients text us from their regular phone, or do they need an app?

Accepted Answer

Patients text you from their regular SMS app. No downloads or special apps required. They simply text your practice's dedicated number. This eliminates friction and increases engagement. Your team uses PracticeDilly's web or mobile app to manage conversations, but patients experience normal texting.

Question 3

How do we handle texts when the office is closed?

Accepted Answer

You can configure auto-replies for after-hours messages that acknowledge receipt and set expectations for response time. For urgent matters, you can set up escalation rules that notify on-call staff. The system can also provide self-service options like links to online scheduling or FAQs. Your team sees all after-hours messages when they return, organized and ready for response.

Question 4

Can we send images and documents via text?

Accepted Answer

Yes! PracticeDilly supports MMS messaging, so you can send and receive images, PDFs, and documents. This is great for sharing care instructions, receiving photos of concerns from patients, sending directions or forms, and more. All media is stored securely with the same HIPAA protections as text messages.

Question 5

How do patients opt in to receiving texts?

Accepted Answer

TCPA regulations require patient consent before texting. PracticeDilly provides multiple opt-in methods: consent checkboxes on intake forms, text-to-join keywords patients can use, and opt-in confirmation for existing patients. The system tracks consent status for every patient and only allows texting those who've opted in. Patients can opt out anytime by replying STOP.

Question 6

Can we text patients in languages other than English?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. PracticeDilly supports texting in any language. You can create message templates in Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, or any other language your patient population speaks. Our AI auto-reply features also support multiple languages for automated responses.

Question 7

How does texting integrate with our practice management system?

Accepted Answer

PracticeDilly integrates with all major dental and medical PMS platforms. Patient conversations are linked to their chart, so you see context when messaging. You can send texts triggered by appointment events, access patient phone numbers from your PMS, and log text interactions for the patient record. Integration setup is handled during your onboarding.

Question 8

What's the difference between texting and appointment reminders?

Accepted Answer

Appointment reminders are automated, scheduled messages about upcoming visits. Two-way texting is real-time, conversational communication for any topic: questions, care coordination, follow-ups, and more. PracticeDilly includes both. Reminders run on autopilot, while texting gives you a channel for genuine patient conversations beyond appointment logistics.

Two-way Texting

Easy-to-use Texting Platform Built for Dental Practices

Texting That Works for Dental Practices

Two-Way Conversations

Unified Team Inbox

MMS & Rich Media

Answer Patients on the Go

Scheduled Messages

HIPAA Compliant

Why Texting Changes Everything

98% Open Rate

Faster Response Times

Reduce Phone Calls 40%

Better Patient Relationships

Seamless PMS Integration

What Our Clients Say

See It In Action

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Frequently Asked Questions

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