How to Get 120 New Patients

By Paul Martin, PT, MPT, CBI, M&AMI

I have a strategy that will bring you more than 120 new patients in the upcoming year if you commit to doing it. This strategy builds “real” relationships with physicians. So often, we as physical therapists believe that we can build a relationship with physicians simply by stopping by their office or bringing them lunch. Been there, done that—those strategies are getting old. If you really want to build relationships with physicians you need to create social situations where physicians actually let their guard down and have a little fun.

Commit to a discipline of one social outing with a physician every month over the next 12 months. Take the physician to his or her favorite sporting event, concert, show, golfing, fishing, or to his or her favorite restaurant—anywhere that you can create a relaxing atmosphere and the physician will actually have fun! Consider taking your spouse and inviting the physician’s spouse. Or better yet, take one of your therapists and request that the physician bring a guest. A small group will stimulate interesting conversation. And no, do not talk about how great you are as a physical therapist. Find things in common to give you a reason to get together again, or at the very least stay in contact due to a common interest. This is true relationship building and you will get at least 10 more referrals a month from each physician. That equals 120!!

Paul Martin, PT, MPT, CBI, M&AMI president of Martin Healthcare Advisors, is a nationally recognized expert on health care business development and succession planning. As a consultant, mentor, and speaker, Paul assists business owners with building value in their companies. He has authored “The Ultimate Success Guide,” numerous industry articles and weekly Friday Morning Moments. He can be reached at pmartin@martinhealthcareadvisors.com.