Moment of truth 8 of 13: your report of findings.

Use the report of findings to shape one of the most significant moments of truth: when the patient's care is complete. Be sure to discuss this now rather than later.

Defuse the myth – Most have heard that 'once you go you have to go for the rest of your life.'

Prove your detachment – Let them know that you're not invested in the choices they make.

Reduce their stress – so patients don't have to lie (make appointments they don't intend to keep) when they want to stop care.

Enhance reactivations – by making it easy to end care, you make it easy to resume care should symptoms return. Plus, patients will be less likely to avoid you in the grocery store.

"When you've had enough tell me so we can celebrate your success and archive your records should you need us again."

Bill Esteb has been a chiropractic patient and advocate since 1981. He is the creative director of Patient Media and the co-founder of Perfect Patients. He’s been a regular speaker at chiropractic gatherings since 1985. His 12 books explore the doctor/patient relationship from a patient's point of view. His chiropractic blog, in-office consultations, patient focus groups and consulting calls have helped hundreds of chiropractors around the world. Since 1999 Monday Morning Motivation has been emailed to over 10,000 subscribers each week.