Section 2 of 8

The 12-Field Verification Checklist

Every verification follows the same framework. These are the 12 data points you must confirm before a patient sits in the chair.

Sample Insurance Card — Annotated with 12 Verification Fields
# Field What to Confirm
1EligibilityIs coverage active? What's the effective date?
2Plan TypeDHMO, DPPO, Indemnity, or Discount plan?
3Network StatusIs the provider in-network or out-of-network?
4DeductibleAnnual deductible amount. How much has been met?
5Annual MaximumTotal benefit per year. How much remains?
6Benefit %Preventive (typically 100%), Basic (80%), Major (50%)
7Waiting PeriodsDays/months before certain services are covered
8Frequency LimitsHow often can procedures be done? (e.g., cleanings 2x/year)
9Age LimitsSealants under 14, ortho under 19, etc.
10Missing Tooth ClauseDoes the plan exclude teeth lost before coverage?
11Pre-AuthorizationWhich procedures require prior approval?
12COBPrimary vs. secondary insurance. Birthday rule.

Pro tip: Print this checklist and keep it next to your workstation until it becomes second nature. Most experienced specialists can verify all 12 fields in 8–12 minutes.

Match the Field

For each scenario, pick which of the 12 fields would catch the issue.

Why Verification Matters Gathering Patient Information