Patient Referral Marketing for Dummies – Part 1

Let’s face it: building a solid referral network is hard work, takes a lot of time, and sometimes feels impossible to manage. However, if done properly, it can be incredibly rewarding for all colleagues involved.

To be successful, you need a clear goal and an actionable plan to achieve the desired results.

Step 1: Identifying Your Objectives

First, determine what you want to achieve:

1. Are you looking for more referrals from new practitioners?
2. Are you trying to increase referrals from existing practices you already work with?

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Referrals from New Sources

If you want to attract new sources, you must build trust and authority. Below are a few simple methods that yield great results:

1. Maintain a Content-Rich Website: Update your site weekly with fresh content that your potential colleagues would find valuable. This can be a blog written a few times a week.
   Check out these tips on how to write an interesting doctor blog.

I know what you’re thinking—I barely have time to run my practice, pay bills, and see my family, let alone write interesting content!

The good news is you don’t have to do it alone. Here are a few ways to generate content efficiently:

• Your Staff: Your team is on the front lines and knows what referral colleagues are asking about.
• Blog Exchanges: Set up a cross-promotion with current colleagues where you guest post on each other’s sites.
• Guest Posting: Write for influential industry publications to build your authority.

Need assistance with your marketing and website? Visit Level 2 Marketing for affordable, professional services.

2. Create a “Want List”: Identify the top 10 organizations in each specialty that would benefit your office most. Reach out to them or host a welcome party.
   See the top 3 ways to market your practice for more ideas.

What are the Benefits?

Consistency is key. These activities improve the chances that others will notice your expertise, reach out for advice, and ultimately refer patients to you.

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Referrals from Current Sources

To increase activity from existing colleagues, you need to remain “top of mind” daily. Before diving into the details, you must establish baseline metrics. Without real-time tracking, you cannot accurately judge the ROI of your marketing efforts.

Quick Tip: Use a virtual patient referral network like ReferralMD. This web-based application allows you to exchange referrals online, replacing slow, inaccurate paper forms and faxes.

Benefits of Digital Referrals:

• Reduces staff processing time from 1 hour to just 3 minutes.
• Eliminates communication gaps (no more lost faxes).
• Improves the patient experience with faster scheduling.
• Provides real-time reporting on who is sending you the most business.

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Referral Marketing for Dummies – Part 2

Read Part 2: More tips and ideas for doctor marketing.