Technology has transformed the healthcare industry in recent years. Today, patients can communicate with their doctors from anywhere, as tech-enabled tools like video chat and online patient portals have grown in popularity.
As a result, healthcare marketing has changed, and marketers are constantly seeking out new ways to connect with potential and current patients. Here are six healthcare marketing trends to know about if you’re looking to grow your practice.
Provide a user-friendly experience
For patients, finding a new doctor can be a complicated experience. Between finding a physician who is local, in-network, and has good reviews, it’s not a task most people enjoy.
Simplify the process for potential patients by creating a user-friendly website. Your site should include key information, including doctor profiles, contact information, and insurance options. Keep in mind that many people conduct research on their smartphones, so your website should also be optimized for mobile.
Include an online contact form
Most medical offices are only open during weekday working hours, which can be inconvenient for people who work during those hours. Some people can’t make personal calls during the day, so you may want to provide an alternative option to get in touch, like an online form.
By taking online inquiries, you can increase inbound leads by giving people another avenue to contact you. It can also help lighten your receptionists’ phone call volume.
Optimize for search results in your area
These days, when buyers seek out a new product or service, they head to Google to do some preliminary research. Your potential patients are no different.
Build out a search engine optimization (SEO) strategy to make sure your website is appearing in local search results for your area. For example, if you’re a podiatrist in Cleveland, your site should contain keywords such as “podiatrist near me,” “foot doctor in Cleveland,” and other variations that patients may be researching.
Incentivize patient referrals
In addition to conducting their own research, people also consult their inner circle for recommendations — especially when it comes to medical care.
Encourage your existing patients to tell their friends and family about your practice. Depending on the type of care you provide, you can offer a small giveaway or discounts on services to patients who successfully refer their contacts to your practice.
Keep in touch with email
The majority of your patients don’t visit your practice regularly, but you want to make sure that you’re still on their mind. Email newsletters are an easy way to stay in touch without interrupting their day-to-day lives.
Send your patients quick tips for staying healthy, upcoming office closures or vacations, and relevant third-party health articles. Newsletters are a thoughtful touch that shows your patients that you’re still available as a helpful resource, even if they’re not in your office.
Test out video
Did you know that video is consumers’ favorite type of content to see from brands on social media? Video is engaging, and it’s an effective way to quickly capture the attention of your audience.
Even if it’s not professional quality, you can test out video with your audience by publishing short physician introductions, interviews, and Q&A’s on your website and social media.
Each day, healthcare marketers are finding new opportunities to connect with patients. If you’re looking to build stronger relationships with prospective and existing patients, try implementing these ideas into your healthcare marketing strategy.
