Pediatricians across the country are finding it harder and harder to keep their patient base. Practices are closing and others are struggling to stay afloat. So what is causing this decline and how can you get more patients to your pediatrician’s office?
There are several reasons for the decline in pediatric patients. One reason is that many parents are choosing to go to urgent care or retail clinics for their children’s care. These clinics often offer a more convenient option with shorter wait times. They also tend to be less expensive than a visit to a pediatrician.
Another reason for the decline is that many pediatricians are not taking new patients. This can be due to several factors, such as a shortage of providers, a high volume of patients, or an inability to see new patients within a reasonable timeframe.
If you are a pediatrician, you know that getting more patients to your practice is important. Here are four tips to help you get more patients:
Tip 1: Offer a Variety of Services
One of the best ways to get more patients to your pediatric practice is to offer a variety of services. This can include everything from well-child check-ups and vaccinations to treating common illnesses and injuries. You can also provide specialty services, such as care for chronic conditions or developmental delays. By offering a range of services, you’ll be able to meet the needs of more patients, which can help grow your practice.
Tip 2: Build a Relationship With Patients and Families
Do you want to get more patients in your pediatric practice? It’s not as hard as you might think, but it does take some effort. First and foremost, you need to build a relationship with your patients and their families. When people feel comfortable with you and trust you, they are more likely to come to you for care.
One way to make patients and families feel welcome is by having a waiting room that is comfortable and inviting. Make sure there are plenty of toys and books for kids to play with, along with magazines and newspapers for parents. You should also have coffee, tea, water, and other refreshments available.
Another way to create a positive relationship is by being personable with your patients and their families. Talk to them about their lives outside of the doctor’s office, and show genuine interest in what they have to say.
Tip 3: Market Your Practice Effectively
There are many effective ways to market your pediatric practice. One way to get more patients is to participate in community events. Offer free screenings or provide information about common childhood illnesses. Distribute flyers and brochures in local pediatrician’s offices, schools, and other places where parents are likely to gather. You can also create a website, start digital marketing for your practice and post helpful information for parents. Promote special discounts for new patients. Whatever marketing strategy you choose, be sure to stay consistent with your message and target your audience effectively.
Tip 4: Stay Up to Date on Pediatric Advances
Pediatricians are constantly learning new information to help them provide the best care for their patients. The goal is to keep up with advances in technology, treatments, and diagnostics. This can be a challenge, but there are ways to make sure you’re getting the latest news. One way is to attend conferences and symposiums; another is to subscribe to journals and newsletters.
Many pediatricians find that subscribing to a few key journals is helpful. These might include Pediatrics, Journal of Pediatrics, Clinical Pediatrics, and Pediatric Annals. They can also keep up with advances through social media such as Twitter and LinkedIn groups. There are many groups devoted to different aspects of pediatric care, such as neonatology, gastroenterology, and infectious diseases.
Tip 5: Use Appointment Scheduling Software
If you’re looking for ways to get more patients through your pediatric practice doors, consider using the appointment scheduling software for pediatricians. One great option is Picktime. This online booking page is easy to use and lets parents book appointments quickly and easily. Plus, payments and invoicing can be managed through the system as well. This can save you time and hassle in the long run.
Apart from being able to schedule appointments online, it also provides automatic reminders which can help reduce the number of no-shows.
In conclusion, by following these five simple tips, pediatric practices can see an increase in patients and improve their overall patient base. By being welcoming and accommodating, providing valuable information, offering promotions and discounts, and staying up-to-date with the latest technology, pediatricians can ensure that their practice thrives and their patients are happy.
