As a hearing healthcare provider, it is important that you meet your patients’ needs. What about their needs as customers? Your patients might come to you because they need high-quality hearing care, but they also want versatile business options that work for them. Now is the time to embrace the digital age and give your customers what they want.
While you might suspect that some of your patients still want to do business the traditional way—with appointments scheduled by phone and in-person appointments—many customers are heading in a digital direction. A recent study found that 61 percent of customers have become more comfortable interacting with companies digitally since the pandemic. This includes on businesses’ websites, apps, and other online channels. The number of people who do not like interacting with businesses via digital solutions grows smaller every year.
In addition, the study revealed that 60 percent of people surveyed prefer not to call a live customer service person at all if they can solve their issues themselves using online resources. For many people, using digital resources is faster and easier than calling a live support person, and they can more easily fit it into their schedules rather than waiting for your office’s business hours.
So, with this data in mind, it’s time to utilize digital resources. Here are a few ways you can provide digital solutions that give your customers what they need and want:
Telehealth
During the pandemic, people became more comfortable with conducting meetings virtually. Many medical appointments moved to digital platforms as well. In 2020, telehealth was a necessity that enabled medical professionals to provide care without meeting with patients in person, thus reducing the risk of spreading COVID-19.
While the pandemic has since waned, many patients now prefer telehealth. They may still have health concerns, or they may simply enjoy the convenience of virtual medical appointments. Either way, offering virtual audiology appointments is an excellent way to serve more people and give your patients what they want.
E-Commerce
Similarly, more and more people have made the shift to shopping online rather than in person. This doesn’t need to be confined to grocery shopping; audiologists can offer e-commerce too! If you offer products for sale in your office, such as hearing aids, you can offer them online as well. E-commerce is fast and convenient for your patients, and it opens another stream of revenue for your practice. That’s a true win-win!
Updated Website
Keeping your website up to date may seem simple, but in today’s digital age, it’s a big deal. Ensure that your content is current—especially the necessities, like your contact information, address, and hours of operation. If you include information on your website about your team members, make sure that is up to date as well. If you have a blog, keep posting! Neglecting your blog can not only cost you in SEO, but it can also make website visitors wonder whether your business is still open.
Another important way to keep your website updated is to make sure that it features responsive design. This means that the layout and format of the website adjust to whatever device your patient is using, whether it’s a mobile phone, tablet, or computer. Make it easy for patients to find the information and resources they need.
For more information about how you can provide valuable digital resources to your patients and give them what they want, we welcome you to contact us today at AudiologyPlus. We are eager to help you grow your business online.
