By Jay Juffre
How is your organization doing at wooing back patients. I’m not talking about the ones who need to go to you, but the ones who look forward to going to you for preventative care. During COVID many people, mostly out of fear, put off going to the doctor for items ranging from regular visits to both elective and required surgeries. As we enter the summer months free of masks and other precautions, health care organizations have a responsibility to ensure that patients feel comfortable and confident about seeking medical care. Unfortunately, even prior to the pandemic, many patients dreaded going which can lead to bigger issues. However, there are several strategies that providers can use to get patients to look forward to going to the doctor. For example, always create a welcoming and comfortable environment for patients. This can include providing comfortable seating, soothing music, and calming colors on the walls. Additionally, ensure that facilities are clean and well-maintained, which can help patients feel more at ease. Everyone should also be looking for ways to improve communication with patients. This can include providing clear and concise information about medical procedures, medications, and treatment options. Communication also includes listening to patients’ concerns and answering any questions they may have. By improving communication, patients will feel more informed and empowered, which can help alleviate anxiety. After that (and some providers are already doing this), look for simple ways to incentivize your patients. This can include rewards for attending regular check-ups or completing preventative health measures, such as getting a flu shot or mammogram. By offering fun recognition, patients will feel more motivated to seek medical care. Bottom line is this, with COVID in the rear-view mirror, we need to do everything we can to get the population to focus on preventative care and scheduling procedures they have put off. Look for ways to win back patients and their families. The extra effort will produce added revenues and healthier people.
Jay Juffre is Executive Vice President and Chief of Staff, ImageFIRST. For more information on ImageFIRST, call 1-800-932-7472 or visit www.imagefirst.com.
