You know it yourself; you stay where you feel valued and appreciated. Sometimes, saying thank you to patients isn’t enough. Extending your efforts to make them feel how grateful you are is worth it. After all, existing patients are your most effective promoters. Positive word of mouth continues to drive patients successfully for free.

You can’t keep attracting new patients while neglecting those who are already supporting you. If you want your clients to keep coming back, patient appreciation should be integral to your marketing strategy.

Here are some of the best ways to show appreciation to your patients.

1. Offering discounts. Consider giving discounts to patients who pay in cash or who have been coming to your office for a while. Not everyone has dental insurance and not all services may be eligible for it. Paying for dental procedures can be tough for some patients. Offering discounts may help patients feel you genuinely care and motivate them to continue working with your team.

2. Incentivizing referrals. Your patients promoting your practice without you asking them to is one of the advantages of providing excellent care. But it also wouldn’t hurt to share rewards with them. It could be a discount for their next visit or a small fund credit they can use for their future visits.

3. Hosting events. Hosting events is also one way you can show patients your gratitude. You can make the events coincide with holidays or occasions celebrated in your community. For example, you can invite children to a trick-or-treat or back-to-school-themed party in your office. Or, you can treat families to a movie show. Don’t forget to include reminders about the importance of good dental health in your events.

4. Reaching out after an appointment. Reach out to your patients after their appointments. Check in on them to see how they’re doing or if they have any questions or concerns. Not all patients may respond, especially if they don’t see any issues with the service they received. But they will remember your gesture.

5. Sending birthday wishes. Doesn’t it feel great when you receive random birthday wishes? You can automate birthday greetings, but if possible, send a customized message. Or, even better, hand in a personal note. It can be from the dental hygienist or doctor, someone who works directly with the patient. The note doesn’t have to be long as long as it’s handwritten. If their next appointment falls on their birthday, you may also consider giving discounts or free merchandise.

6. Giving out tokens and rewards. Give a little reward to patients that are consistent with their dental appointments. Tokens don't have to be fancy. You can give away free dental hygiene kits, face masks, hand sanitizers, or stationery sets. You can also opt for non-material rewards. You may, for instance, prioritize booking loyal patients so they can secure a spot ahead of time.

7. Participating in community events. Local event organizers will, at one point, reach out to you for sponsorship offers or volunteer activities. Often, these events are part of community traditions. Consider volunteering or donating to causes that relate to your values as a dental practice. You may hold free dental checkups for children or older adults. Take this opportunity to interact with your neighbors. Who knows, some participants may be actively looking for a new dentist. Reaching out is hence a win-win for you and the people you’re helping.

8. Offering multiple payment options. Prioritizing patient convenience is one way you can show you care. See which payment options your patients are most comfortable with. Some patients may not have credit cards or dental insurance or prefer to settle bills over the phone or through their mobile devices. Looking into financing plans or various payment methods can also help you increase bookings.

9. Assisting on insurance claims. Insurance concerns are among the frequently asked questions in dental practices. Be patient when clients seek explanations or request assistance. Better yet, let them know right away that you’re happy to help them with their insurance claims. Everyone knows how confusing this aspect can be. Shed light where you can.

Patient appreciation doesn’t have to be extravagant, contrary to what others may be thinking. Do you have more ideas on how to show patients your gratitude? Or perhaps you need help in developing and executing plans to improve patient experience and retention? Contact us today to request a one-on-one consultation with our dental marketing professionals.

 

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