Podiatrists starting a new practice or continuing to grow an existing one are accepting and seeking new patients.

Marketing to attract new patients is vital. Creating a strategy to attract new patients can be nerve-wracking, especially when dedicating most work hours to patient care and office management.

Marketing agencies may knock on your door, pitching campaigns that sound good. Often the costs seem steep, and you may be uncertain what works. Fortunately, you are a part of an association here to support your career by offering opportunities to network with other podiatrists and obtain relevant news!

Many techniques and strategies could work for you.

Here are three ways to attract new podiatry patients.

1. Create and maintain a robust digital presence.

If you do not already have a website, you will want one. The website should include bios, office hours, contact information, location information, and information about conditions treated.

If you are a podiatrist that does not have your practice, you can still benefit from getting an updated headshot or updating your bio online.

Patients choosing a podiatrist will want to see your face and know a little about you and your qualifications before making an appointment.

2. Get involved in your community.

What opportunities are there to network to get your name out there?

Perhaps you could join your local chamber of commerce. Consider hosting an event and inviting potential referral partners to see your location and learn more about your services.

Consider sponsoring a 5K and distributing literature about your practice.

3. Leverage the opportunity to increase referrals through existing patients and other reputable sources.

Your existing patients can be your most significant source of referrals. Prospective patients often do not seek a podiatrist because they don't know about the treatment of podiatry and conditions. Existing patients aware of the conditions you treat can then refer loved ones to your practice. Ensure your office has adequate signage, brochures, and materials that incorporate all your offerings.

Some podiatrists have found a strategy and a budget that works well for them!

When meeting with an advertising agency, one should ask questions when you are unsure. If you don't know what questions to ask, perhaps you have a friend or mentor, such as another podiatrist or business owner, who can give you some advice!

Keep working hard to get your name out there, and your practice will achieve growth,

PPMA is an association dedicated to the greater good of podiatrists in Pennsylvania. To learn more, visit PPMA at www.ppma.org.