With all the useful information available on Physicians Practice, it is easy to become overwhelmed.

With this in mind, the tip of the week is a chance to reflect on some of the wisdom found all across the site. In a December 2020 article on Five tips for improving your practice’s reputation, Daniel Fernandez writes the following:

“Whether it’s having to re-prioritize routine visits or adopting remote care via telehealth, it’s challenging to connect with patients in the same way you used to. While you always strive to excel as a physician, increasingly your practice seems to suffer from disgruntled patients and unhappy staff. Sound familiar?

If recent operational changes have led to negative online reviews, your practice is not alone.

1. Do online reviews patients leave for you as a physician speak to your ability to deliver exceptional outcomes, but mention nothing of your bedside manner?

While patients may respect your education, years of service, and expertise, what they are looking for these days is someone they can relate to. Look for simple ways to connect on a human level. Make eye contact, appear unhurried—even if the appointment time is short —and always leave time for questions.

2. What changes can be made to my office layout, patient trafficking, and waiting time?

One exercise that’s proven to be the most effective at evaluating a practice’s online and offline patient experience is to have members of the leadership team go through the entire journey themselves—from pre-appointment and an in-office visit, to receiving post-appointment communications and follow-up.

3. How can you avoid communication failures about possible surgery outcomes and risks

Make health literacy a core value in your practice for all staff. Offer patient education materials such as printed collateral, emails with embedded educational videos, or create a resource section on your website with search functionality.”

Click here to read the rest of the article and be sure to check back next week for another Tip of the Week!