Cut to the Chase and Keep the Patient Relationship Rolling

Success in practice comes from making certain that every patient has a positive experience. In this COVID-19 environment, it can be a challenge.

But now is the time to emphasize a connection with our patients, especially as many practices adopt telemedicine to safeguard against proximity and touch. One method of enhancing that doctor-patient relationship is for the doctors to create short videos as an adjunct to the in-office or virtual visit.

An expensive, professionally produced video is not required – nor is it really advised. The point is to make these videos feel as authentic and real as if the doctor were conversing with a patient in person.

My tips:

• Think of the most frequently asked questions you get each day. Then write out your answers and review them several times before filming.
• Limit the video to 60-90 seconds.
• Use a smartphone, a good microphone and a tripod to keep the phone camera still.
• Dress like a doctor, with a shirt and tie, a white coat or scrubs.
• Post the videos to your website.
• Suggest to patients that they watch the videos before an appointment.

Invite your staff to create videos, too, such as walking patients through new office check-in procedures like this one by one of our clients. This doctor wound up in a similar video on CNN's Facebook Page. These videos can show off your office cleaning and safety protocols or explain how to fill out paperwork online before an appointment.

Bottom Line: short educational videos will strengthen the bonds of trust and appreciation between you and patients.