As a medical practice, one of your primary goals is likely to acquire new patients while also retaining the ones you have. Healthcare providers should consider a multi-faceted approach involving traditional and digital marketing tactics to reach and acquire more new patients. The best approach for your practice will depend on your location, specialty, and marketing budget.
1. Get Referrals from Current Patients
Word-of-mouth is an effective way to reach new patients. Satisfied patients are more likely to refer their friends and family to your practice if they have had a positive experience. You can encourage referrals by providing excellent care and service, ensuring that your patients feel valued and appreciated, and offering incentives, such as discounts or free services. In addition, make sure that your staff is knowledgeable and friendly and that they take the time to listen to your patient’s concerns.
Another way to get referrals is by providing your patients with referral cards or flyers. You can give out these cards or flyers at the end of each visit or post them on your website or online profile. Lastly, you can also offer referral incentives, such as discounts on future treatments or gift certificates. No matter which method you choose, getting referrals from current patients can help you reach more new patients.
2. Use Digital Marketing
Digital Marketing allows you to reach and acquire more new patients. You can connect with more people needing dental care by targeting potential patients through online channels such as search engines and social media. In addition, online advertising allows you to build credibility for your practice. When potential patients see that you are active online and are using cutting-edge marketing techniques, they will be more likely to trust your practice and consider becoming a patient.
A digital marketing agency can perform a digital marketing assessment to determine your business’s strengths and weaknesses online. They can then develop a plan of action that includes targeted email marketing, online advertising campaigns, and social media outreach. Use the various digital marketing channels to enable your business to reach more potential customers. And since online advertising is relatively affordable, it’s a cost-effective way to acquire new patients.
3. Participate in Local Events
Local events allow you to reach many people quickly, and thus you can connect with potential patients face-to-face. Additionally, by aligning yourself with local organizations and causes, you can build goodwill within your community and raise awareness about your dental practice.
There are various types of events you can participate in, from health fairs to charity races. However, choosing events where you will find your target audience is important. For example, if you’re targeting young parents, you might want to participate in a parenting event or a children’s race. Alternatively, if you’re looking to attract older patients, consider attending a retirement event or a health fair.
No matter which events you participate in, always bring along plenty of information about your dental practice. This includes copies of your brochures, flyers, and promotional giveaways like pens and keychains. And be sure to have an eye-catching table display that will draw attention from passersby. By participating in local events, you can reach more new patients and increase the visibility of your dental practice.
4. Use Traditional Advertising Methods
If you want to attract more new patients to your practice, consider using traditional advertising methods. While online marketing is effective, sometimes good old-fashioned print or broadcast ads can be even more impactful. Ensure your ad is attention-grabbing and includes information about your practice, such as your location, hours, and specialties.
Additionally, you can purchase airtime on a local radio station or TV channel. You could produce a short commercial that highlights what makes your practice unique. You can also post flyers or posters in high-traffic areas, such as supermarkets, community centers, or libraries. You could also distribute handouts at local events or fairs. Using these traditional advertising methods, you can reach a wider audience and tell them about the excellent care you provide.
Conclusion
A multi-faceted approach is the best way to reach and acquire new patients. By combining online marketing, PR, and referrals, you can create a comprehensive strategy that will bring in more leads than relying on just one tactic. Additionally, it is important to actively promote your practice through social media, mailings, and other channels. And finally, always be sure to follow up with leads and convert them into patients.
