Yet only 13% to 15% of physicians test their patients' hearing.
physicians need to be aware of what the limitations of use are on those technologies to ensure that their patients are capable of accurately deciphering the differences between and benefits of varying technologies.
The team at Cityview Audiology & Hearing Aids, Inc. saw a shift in consumer behavior along with the expanding options of hearing technology.
They saw a need to educate both physicians and patients in their community on the new types of hearing technology options.
See how they created a physician-referral program that saw over 1,200 patient referrals and elevated their practice as community hearing care experts.
Generally, it's more expensive to bring in a new patient with traditional marketing than it is with a physician-outreach program. For example, it costs $450 to $550 for each new appointment through traditional marketing, whereas a physician-outreach program is more of an investment in time.
Educating physicians on comorbidity — the simultaneous presence of two chronic diseases or conditions in a patient — between hearing health and a growing list of associated diseases helps these physicians better care for their patients, allowing the patients to lead healthy and fuller lives.
Having a dedicated physician-outreach person within your practice to build the relationships with local practices is key. Joyce, our physician liaison, takes responsibility for physician outreach.
Physician liaison Joyce, educating consumers at a community event
(She also always delivers treats along with the information products.)
Since 2016 we have seen over 1,200 patient referrals from physician offices.
Our practice sees referrals from over 30 local offices.
In 2017, 30% of hearing aid sales were from physician referrals.
Approximately 50% of all patients seen are referred by physicians.
Diane Blaising, Au.D., ADA, FAAA
it is important to ensure your practice schedule is optimized so that you are getting the most out of your referrals and all other patient appointments.
we have established some best practices that have made our physician-referral program a huge success.
See how one practice increased their hearing aid revenue by 25% by implementing a block-scheduling program.