As a gynecologist with a small OB/GYN office, you may be eager to attract new patients. One of the best ways you can bring in — and keep — your clients is to make sure that they're comfortable with your office and confident about your skills as a doctor. How can you make your OB/GYN office more attractive to patients?
Offer Mammography Gowns
Breast exams are likely a regular part of your routine. However, for the women who walk into your practice, mammograms and breast exams could be uncomfortable. If you can make them more comfortable, women might be more likely to think well of your practice. To make those procedures comfortable, consider mammography gowns.
You may be using regular hospital gowns for these exams, but mammography gowns are often softer and prettier than hospital gowns. Even more important, many mammography gowns and jackets don't have to be pulled all the way down and leave the entire top portion of the body without coverage. With a jacket, a woman can open one part of the piece at a time so that they don't have to expose both breasts during routine procedures. By offering mammography gowns and jackets that are more attractive, soft, and private, patients will be comfortable.
Meet Patients Before Exams
Instead of first meeting patients in an examining room, allow them to get to know you in the office first. Take a few minutes to greet both new and existing patients in your office, asking them about concerns or thoughts. By giving them the floor to discuss their health in their own clothing before exams take place, patients are likely to feel calmer about sharing their private thoughts and health issues.
Hire Warm Support Staff
Your office staff members are just as important as you are to your practice. If you offer nurses and administrative staff who are warm and welcoming to your patients, they will feel good about coming in and interacting with you all. Be mindful of the staff members that have interactions with patients; seek out people who are not only qualified but have a good rapport with the women who visit the office.
Ask for Feedback
You don't have to second-guess everything you're doing. If you're curious about your performance, ask current patients for anonymous feedback. People will tell you what you can improve on, and you can be made aware of what is already successful. There are several online forms you can use, or you might leave a suggestions dropbox at the desk.
