According to the Pew Research Center, more than half of all adult Internet users have gone online to search for health information. Today's patients use the Internet as a primary source of information. However, the cost of an online presence may be more than most private practice dentists can afford. The Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) offers a new benefit for members, which allows them to bypass the hassle and expense of a Web site and create their own personalized page at no cost.
The AGD recently re-launched its Web page template service called "Member Web Page Builder". This free service provides AGD members with a one-page Web site. The simple, ten-step wizard guides members through choosing colors and fonts, uploading graphics and creating an office schedule. Since its launch on Feb. 2, 2004, 30 members have created pages.
"The instructions are straightforward and easy to use," says Dr. Bruce Burton, AGD vice president and spokesperson. "The Web site allows me to share my office hours and emergency numbers, and I'm also able to inform potential new patients about my credentials and experience."
Members who have an existing Web site are still able to take advantage of the member benefit by using the free AGD page to link to their existing page. All of the member Web pages will be linked from the consumer section of the AGD's Web site.
To learn more about this member benefit, log onto www.agd.org and click on the icon marked "Create Your Own Web Page".
To learn more about becoming an AGD member, call AGD's Member Services Center toll-free at 888.243.3368, ext. 5300. A member services representative will answer questions or can begin the membership process over the phone. The AGD works hard to improve the quality and value of the service it provides to members.
The AGD is a non-profit organization of more than 37,000 general dentists dedicated to staying up-to-date in the profession through continuing education. A general dentist is the primary care provider for patients of all ages and is responsible for the diagnosis, treatment, management and overall coordination of services related to patients' oral health needs.
