Practice Growth Stalled? Try These Strategies

posted by Pivotal Health Solutions on Friday, May 1, 2015

So you have an office, a website and staff who are ready to see patients. Is your practice as busy as you'd like it to be? 

If not, take a look at your marketing strategies. Marketing for practice growth doesn't have to be expensive. Most of all, it's about building relationships in your community.

A solid practice marketing strategy should start with a plan that details the category of patients you want to attract, how you will reach out to them and the messages that will resonate with them. Second, make sure your backend systems are equipped to handle an influx of new patients and that your staff are properly trained to use these systems. Third, get out there by identifying opportunities in the community where you can meet and talk to the patients you want to work with, such as Chamber meetings, community centers, YMCAs, church groups and perhaps most importantly, payors and employers. Remember to include media relations and explore digital advertising (web or social media) in addition to any traditional advertising tactics (print, TV, radio and billboards). Finally, know yourself: If you need marketing assistance, don't be afraid to ask for it. 

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You created your vision, wrote your business plan, and launched your website. You’re clear on the types of patients you’d like to work with and the number of patients you need for your practice to run efficiently and be financially sound. The challenge now is how you’ll attract new patients and grow your practice. 

If there’s anything we learned from the providers who we spoke with, it’s that there isn’t a step-by-step plan that’s perfect for every practice. In fact, many providers told us that their journey to grow their practice has been one filled with trial and error. 

That said, the following takeaways seem to ring true no matter the size or location of the practice:

1. Get Your Backend in Order: Make sure you have the systems and policies in place to run smoothly as your practice grows.
2. Be Yourself: It’s important that your marketing be authentic and personal to you.
3. Ask for Help: You’re a health care provider, not a marketing maven. Don’t be afraid to ask for professional help with your marketing and business needs.  
4. Hustle: network and make connections in your community. Don’t sit back and wait for patients to find you.
5. Try, Try, and Try Again: Starting a new practice is about trial and error. Try new things, assess how they’re working, and do more of the things that are working. 

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This article excerpt, by Hint Health, originally appeared here: www.hint.com/bestpracticescontent/how-to-grow-your-direct-care-practice.