Regardless of how you feel about corporate dentistry, good or bad, it’s not going anywhere. How do you, a private practice, compete with the extensive marketing budgets of DSOs?
Here are a few tips to consider to better position yourself against your corporate competitors.
Provide Exceptional Quality
Treat your patients exceptionally well. Let them know how much you care about them and connect with them on a personal level. Give them treatment options along with your recommended course. Ensure you are on time for your appointments; don’t keep your patients waiting.
Showcase Your Community Support
Give back to the community and local non-profits and share that you do so on your website. This shows that you care about others and are investing in your community.
Increase Affordability
Many patients who cannot cover a large expense all at once may be able to do so if split into 2 to 3 payments. Offer a third-party financer, like Care Credit. In addition, consider offering your trusted, long-term patients a low down payment (less than $500) with two to three payments requiring an auto charge or bank draft. Use discretion when offering payment plans, and reserve them for trusted, established patients. Increasing the ease of payment can boost your case acceptance and patient retention.
Improve Patient Convenience
Offer patient-accommodating appointments. Your patients likely have jobs, kids, or both. This means their schedules are full. Offer some early morning, late evening, and maybe even the occasional Saturday appointment.
Talk to Your Loyal Patients
Ask your most loyal, long-term, returning patients why they choose to stay with you. You may gain some insight into your practice’s appeal and how to relate that to new patients.